Toyota sharpens up 86 with Limited Edition special

TOYOTA Australia has introduced the 86 Limited Edition into its line-up, with the special version of the two-door sportscar priced from $41,490 before on-road costs and restricted to just 60 units.

Based on the range-topping GTS, the performance-focused Limited Edition commands a $4550 premium and is headlined by the addition of Brembo ventilated disc brakes and Sachs dampers.

Aiming to improve stopping power and endurance, the larger rotors measure in at 326mm by 30mm up the front and 316mm by 20mm at the rear, while they are matched to four- and two-piston callipers respectively.

Comparatively, the GTS makes do with 294mm by 24mm (front) and 290mm by 18mm (rear) rotors.

Meanwhile, the upgraded dampers are especially tuned for the rear-wheel-drive 86, which the Japanese car-maker says increases the coupe's stability and responsiveness through corners.

Given the Limited Edition's focus on braking and handling, there are no mechanical changes to the 86's 152kW/212Nm 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder powerplant, which still sends power to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.

Unlike its GTS donor, the 86 Limited Edition is not available with an automatic transmission.

However, the Limited Edition will be loud and proud thanks to its Solar Orange paint job – which is exclusive to the special 86.

Additionally, the rear spoiler and side mirror housings are finished in metallic black, with 17-inch 10-spoke anthracite-coloured alloy wheels completing the exterior look.

Inside, orange stitching adorns the steering wheel, gear shifter, park brake, door trim and leather-accented front sports seats with perforated Alcantara inserts. Furthermore, the suede-like dashboard features an embossed 86 logo with orange stitching.

These extras come in addition to the GTS' standard equipment list, which includes a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, satellite navigation, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and start, 4.2-inch multi-info display and privacy glass.

According to Toyota Australia executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb, the 86 Limited Edition offers a level of performance expected by driving enthusiasts.

''Whether driven on the open road or on the track, the combination of beefier brakes and uprated suspension involving two renowned performance brands is designed to further distinguish Toyota's lightweight coupe as an authentic driver's car,'' he said.

Since its launch in 2012, the 86 has sold nearly 19,000 units locally, of which two-thirds have been the flagship GTS.

This year, 821 examples have found homes to the end of May, a decrease of 20.3 per cent over the same period in 2016. However, these figures place the model well ahead of its Subaru BRZ twin, which has amassed 279 sales so far during 2017.