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Showing posts with label Toyota South Africa. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Toyota South Africa. Show all posts

Friday, August 22, 2025

Bucket Seat: Toyota Fortuner GR Sport


The Toyota Fortuner has long been one of the countries favourite 7-seater SUV's, based of the ever popular Hilux, this car has fought of some tough competition from the likes of Ford, Isuzu and most recently the surge of Chinese SUV's flooding the market. Given the impressive underpinnings of the Hilux and the reputable and reliable name badge, people are still drawn to this car despite its aged design and offerings. With the impending arrival of the new Hilux which will possibly break cover at the end of the year or early in the new year, spells an end to the life cycle of the current Fortuner which will also have a brand new model based on the new Hilux. Hence Toyota decided to smack on the GR name badge to the Fortuner, with not only cosmetic enhancements but performance as well. 


DESIGN

The GR-Sport treatment takes the familiar Fortuner shape and adds real presence without gaudiness. Outside you get a reshaped front bumper with a bolder lower “spoiler” look, black 18-inch alloys, a roof spoiler, GR badges, and darker exterior accents. It still reads as Fortuner—upright and purposeful—but the GR bits give it a tougher, more athletic stance. Inside, Toyota leans into the theme with perforated suede-and-leather sports seats, aluminium pedals, red instrument highlights and GR branding on the wheel, start button and key. The regular Fortuner’s update brings full-LED lighting with neat sequential indicators and a cleaner, more premium cabin layout; the GR-S simply turns the dial up visually. 


PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet sits the uprated 2.8-litre GD-6 turbodiesel tuned to 165 kW and 550 Nm, paired to a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters. That’s a healthy bump over standard 2.8s (150 kW/500 Nm), and you can feel the extra mid-range shove when overtaking or towing. Toyota also fits a retuned suspension specific to the GR-S, aimed at sharper body control while keeping the Fortuner’s long-distance plushness. Independent SA tests report 0–100 km/h anywhere from the mid-8s to low-11s depending on equipment, surface and methodology—quick enough for a ladder-frame 7-seater and notably stronger than non-GR 2.8s. Real-world, it’s the torque plateau from ~1 600 rpm that defines the drive: relaxed cruising, decisive kickdown, and less hunting between ratios on rolling highways. 


OFF-ROAD

This is still a Fortuner at heart: proper 4×4 hardware (low-range transfer case), a rear diff-lock, and Toyota’s A-TRC traction logic that meters brake pressure at spinning wheels to keep you moving over cross-axle obstacles. Downhill Assist Control helps on steep, loose descents, and Hill-start Assist keeps things tidy on climbs. The GR-S adds its suspension tune and slightly more responsive powertrain mapping, which you notice when feathering the throttle over technical sections. Approach/departure numbers aren’t the sales pitch here—the story is the predictability: clear sight lines, sensible throttle calibration, and electronic aids that step in seamlessly rather than snatching. If you regularly mix gravel touring with the odd rocky pass, this setup hits the sweet spot between comfort and control. 


COMFORT

Seven seats remain, with easy one-touch access to the third row. The second row is family-friendly (ISOFIX on both outer seats), and the third row is fine for kids or occasional adult hops. The boot is square and useful; the flip-up third-row still divides opinion, but it does free a tall, usefully wide load floor when stowed. Ride quality is classic Fortuner: supple over rough tar and gravel, a touch firmer on sharp urban edges in the GR-S but still compliant. Front seats are heated and power-adjustable, and the split-zone climate control with rear ventilation keeps the cabin temperate on long hauls. Noise isolation is improved versus older Fortuners; the 2.8’s balance-shaft work pays dividends at idle and highway cruise. Infotainment is centered on an 8-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and up to 11 speakers. The TFT multi-info cluster is clear and useful, and the electrochromatic rear-view mirror on 2.8-litre models is a nice touch. Toyota Safety Sense is available on the GR-S, bundling a Pre-Crash System, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane-Keeping Assist; you also get front/rear PDC and a reverse camera. The GR-S can be optioned with a Panoramic View Monitor to make tight manoeuvres and off-road wheel placement easier. Passive safety is comprehensive with front, side, curtain and driver’s knee airbags. 


VERDICT

While I may criticize Toyota for not making any drastic changes to the design and interior over the years, the numbers tell no lie, people still love this car and giving it a sporty derivative will only enhance it's appeal to many. While I feel this car is faster than it needs to be, it doesn't take away how much fun it is to drive, especially off-road. The space and practicality of the car is hard to beat, even the Everest, while much more attractive in design and technology, the trusty Toyota badge does shine through in the end with its comfort and reliability. 


SPECIFICATION

Engine
2.8L Turbo Diesel
Gear Box
6-speed manual
Torque
500Nm 
Power
160kW
Top Speed    
180km/h
Price
R999,000

 


 




 


 


 


 


 




 

 


Thursday, May 22, 2025

Bucket Seat: Toyota Corolla Cross HEV


Toyota's assembly plant in Durban's south basin has been a key economic catalyst for the city since its opening in the 1970's, it saw a number of prominent models roll off the production line, most notably the popular medium sized family sedan, the Corolla. Toyota SA invested millions in upgrading the plant over the past decade to accommodate newer models, and even different drive trains, the big change so the Corolla sedan and hatch end its production here and the new Corolla Cross SUV take over the lines. After a brief setback due to the flooding of the area in 2022 the plant reopened again and continued to push out the Corolla Cross models in great numbers, for local and export purposes. This year saw the much loved model get a significant face-lift and a change in name for its hybrid model, which now is badged as HEV. There is also some new colours offered for the model and I got to spend some time with the HEV in one of the striking new colours, here I my thoughts on the car. 


DESIGN

The overall chassis design remains the same for the Corolla Cross with key changes made to the front grille which now has a solid panel colour coded as the body with perforations in circular shapes for air intake. It makes the car look futuristic and gives off an EV vibe to it. The front headlights also received a design change with an integrated bar which runs along the bonnet line linking the two. The Toyota badge is more pronounced and in the HEV model which I had, the badge has a blue hue to it so you know its a hybrid model. The rest of the outer body remains relatively the same with minor changes to the tail lights. Two new colours are featured in the choices, which are Oxide Bronze and the more striking Desert Gold which was what I had. It really is a striking colour and when the sun hits it at the right angles, it gives off a lovely shimmer. The interior design has subtle changes but nothing that is too eye catching from the previous model. 


PERFORMANCE

The Corolla Cross Hybrid is equipped with a 1.8-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 90 kW. Pure petrol engine churns out 72kW with 142Nm of torque. While acceleration is adequate for city driving, the vehicle can feel underpowered during overtaking maneuvers or uphill climbs, where the continuously variable transmission (CVT) may cause the engine to become noticeably noisy. ​The ever annoying grown of a CVT engine would never be one that I would get used to but the Corolla Cross HEV can be forgiven because its main focus isn't power, its fuel economy and that is where this car really shines. In real-world conditions, the Corolla Cross Hybrid demonstrates impressive fuel efficiency, averaging around 5.4 L/100 km. This figure is slightly higher than Toyota's claimed average of 4.3 L/100 km but still represents a significant improvement over the non-hybrid variant. ​Having done quite a bit of mixed driving with the car, I was still able to get an impressive 750km from the 36-litre petrol tank. 


COMFORT

As mentioned earlier in the article, there isn't much changes to the interior Corolla Cross Hybrid, it is designed with practicality in mind. While the dashboard layout is straightforward and user-friendly, it lacks the modern aesthetics found in some competitors. Having the XR model meant a higher trim level which included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and premium materials, including real stitching on the instrument panel. ​The 10-inch infotainment screen remains the same along with the same UI as before, this for me remains an annoyance since it feels rather outdated, in saying that it does support wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto so the screen is projecting this most of the time. Toyota have finally upgraded the USB port to a USB C and it includes a wireless charging tray for mobile phones.  The Corolla Cross Hybrid offers ample cargo space, with a generous boot that can accommodate large and bulky items. However, the rear seats do not fold completely flat, which may limit the loading of certain items. Rear passenger space is adequate, though taller occupants may find headroom slightly restricted. ​


VERDICT

The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid stands out as a reliable and efficient choice in the compact SUV segment. Its combination of fuel economy, practicality, and Toyota's reputation for durability make it a compelling option for urban drivers. While it may not offer the most exhilarating performance or cutting-edge interior design, it delivers where it counts for everyday use. In the South African market, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is priced competitively, with the XS HEV starting at R494,400 and the XR HEV at R545,200. All models come with a 6-services/90,000 km service plan and a 3-year/100,000 km warranty, while hybrid models include an 8-year warranty on the hybrid battery. ​


SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
1.8l Petrol Hybrid
Gear Box        
CVT Automatic
Torque
142Nm
Power
72kW 
Avg Fuel Economy    
4.7L per 100km
Price
R494,400*  base model



Friday, January 24, 2025

Bucket Seat: Toyota Corolla Cross


Toyota launched the "new Corolla Cross" this week ahead of their state of the nation motoring conference at Kyalami this week. The refreshed look of the Cross which has been a firm favourite amongst locals when it was first launched. With the introduction of the hybrid model and the combination of the then silicon chip shortage, meant that prospective buyers had to wait quite some time to get their cars. Regardless, this did not deter them and the amount of Corolla Cross's on the road now speaks volume for the car itself. 


This new, revised model see's major cosmetic changes to the front with a new style grille and front facia giving the car a more cleaner look. The headlights have been revised  which feature sequential turn signals, enhance visibility and a modern touch. Exclusive to the XR and GR-S models are uniquely shaped B--Beam LED lamps and crystal like LED daytime running lights. The rear while not looking that much different to the previous gen, does get a new light design featuring  an inner lens for greater precision and uniformity.  The Cross now has two new colours to the line up, Brass Gold and Oxide Bronze to give the line-up a nice shake up. 


The interior also receives some upgrades with premium materials being used now with real stitching on the instrument panel and console lid, along with high quality floor mats with heel pad. The Corolla Cross now comes with an electric parking brake, doing away with the foot brake on the old model. USB C ports all around the car and rear reclining seats for added comfort. 


The new Corolla Cross is more than just an SUV; it is a continuation of the iconic Corolla legacy. It combines Toyota’s renowned quality, durability, and reliability (QDR) with a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. As a leader in hybrid vehicle technology, the Corolla Cross serves as a bridge between Toyota’s rich history and its future aspirations. Toyota’s reputation for durability and a robust dealer network continues to ensure that the Corolla Cross remains an attractive offering in South Africa’s highly competitive SUV market.



Xi Models

Xs Models

XR and GR-S Models

·         LED Headlamp

·         Smart Entry

·         ABS + EBD + VSC + HAC

·         Cruise Control

·         5 airbags (D + D-knee + P + Side)

·         Electric Parking Brake

·         8” Display Audio

·         4.2” Combination Meter

·         Parking Sensors (Rear x2)

·         Rear Aircon Ducts + 2x USBs Seat B

·         Leather Seats, Shift Lever & Knob

·         3 spoke leather Steering Wheel

·         10” Display Audio + Wireless CarPlay

·         7” Combination Meter

·         Auto Dual Zone Air conditioner

·         Black Roof Rails

·         Parking Sensors (FR x2 + RR x4)

·         Toyota Safety Sense (Adaptive Cruise Control; Pre-crash with front cross traffic alert and Lane Keeping System with Lane Trace Assist)

·         7 Airbags including Curtain Side

·         Auto High Beam + Sequential Turn Signal

·         12.3” Full Digital Meter

·         Electrochromatic Rear View Mirror

·         360° Panoramic View Monitor

·         Power Back Door + Kick Sensor


Pricing on the new Corolla Cross is as follows, with it retaining the two engines, a 1.8 litre petrol and ultra-fuel efficient 1.8 litre Hybrid. While with the introduction the new Xi trim level, the HEV wont be available in this trim. 



  • Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi – R414 800
  • Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs – R452 200
  • Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs HEV – R494 400
  • Corolla Cross 1.8 XR – R501 500
  • Corolla Cross 1.8 XR HEV – R545 200
  • Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-S – R518 200
  • Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-S HEV – R561 700


Thursday, November 7, 2024

Bucket Seat: Toyota Starlet Cross XR


Toyota and Suzuki share a strange product sharing agreement, while the two companies remain separate entities, the shared model platforms are becoming a bit weird to the keen observer. Suzuki produce a number of models that have been re-badged and sold locally as a Toyota product, this makes sense if the Suzuki variant wasn't sold here but as in all cases the Suzuki model is launched first, followed by the Toyota "version", the more surprising fact is that even with Suzuki launching their model first, the Toyota model still outsells the original Suzuki model. That is the power of brand loyalty I guess, it all started when the Suzuki Baleno was brought, sales of this 1.5L medium sized hatchback wasn't great, a year or so later, it lands on our shores badges as the "Toyota Starlet" and it sells in its thousands. Even though the car is basically still a Suzuki, but because of the name on the car, it drew in the sales. Fast forward to 2023 and Suzuki launches their compact SUV the Fronx. It looked like Toyota backed off with this model after sales of their Urban Cruiser wiped the floor of its half-sibling the Grand Vitara but low and behold, the Toyota Starlet Cross landed on our shores this year and yes, you guessed it, sales are skyrocketing for it. I spent some time with this model and here are my thoughts on the car. 


DESIGN

The Toyota Starlet Cross has a bold yet compact design, with sharp lines and an aggressive front fascia that set it apart from the more understated traditional Starlet. The front end is highlighted by a prominent grille with Toyota’s signature trapezoidal shape, flanked by sleek LED headlamps and angular DRLs, giving it a stylish, almost upscale look for its category.  In profile, it features roof rails, black body cladding along the wheel arches, and 16-inch alloy wheels (depending on trim), giving it a rugged, go-anywhere appearance. The rear design maintains a compact aesthetic with sculpted taillights that wrap around the body, adding to the car's sporty profile. It is a looker of note with it attracting keen interests from passes by during my time with it, this was also helped by the outstanding colour called "Fine Orange" with Bi-tone Black. There's no faulting it from any angle and with the additional aluminium scuff plates on the front and the back, gives it that off-roading menace look that would be nice to see on the rally track, subtle hint for Toyota there. 


PERFORMANCE

Under the hood, the Starlet Cross typically offers a choice of small-displacement, fuel-efficient engines, often a 1.5-liter inline-4 or a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, depending on the region. 1.5-Liter Inline-4 Engine: This naturally aspirated engine generates around 77kW and138 Nm of torque. This particular model featured the 5-speed manual transmission and worked well with this engine that is tuned for efficiency and city drivability, offering adequate acceleration and smooth power delivery. Fuel economy is one of the Starlet Cross's strong points with it being able to deliver up to 5.6L per 100km under optimal conditions The Starlet Cross rides comfortably on city streets, absorbing bumps and rough patches with ease. The suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and control, making it agile enough for urban driving while still stable at highway speeds. The electric power steering is light, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, but it can feel a bit numb at higher speeds. While it’s not a sports car, the Starlet Cross handles corners confidently thanks to its low curb weight and well-tuned suspension. Body roll is minimal, and it’s a stable choice for light off-roading, though it’s best suited for city roads and light countryside trails.


COMFORT

Inside, the Starlet Cross offers a refined, practical cabin with an intuitive layout and ample space for passengers and cargo. The materials are durable, with a blend of soft-touch plastics, textured surfaces, and subtle chrome accents on higher trims. Toyota has focused on ergonomics, making sure frequently used controls are within easy reach.  The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, offering good lateral support for longer drives. This XR model featured bi-colour cloth seats but the material felt really premium. The driver’s seat is adjustable, and in some variants, the steering wheel is also telescopically adjustable, ensuring a comfortable driving position. Despite its subcompact classification, the Starlet Cross has decent interior space. There’s ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for front and rear passengers, making it suitable for family use. With the rear seats up, it offers around 320 liters of cargo space, expandable to 710 liters with the seats folded flat. The Starlet Cross is equipped with Toyota's latest infotainment system, which varies depending on the market but typically includes a 7- or 9-inch touchscreen display. This system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to connect smartphones for navigation, calls, and music streaming. Standard safety features on the Startlet Cross include: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control come standard across all trims.


VERDICT

The Toyota Starlet Cross is a smart choice for drivers seeking a reliable, economical, and practical subcompact SUV with just enough style and flair to stand out. While at the heart of the car it remains a Suzuki, you can tell Toyota had some influence in the car, with a dependability with a modern, user-friendly design, making it well-suited for urban families, young professionals, or anyone looking for an efficient crossover that performs well in a variety of driving conditions. The Toyota Starlet Cross offers good value, especially for buyers looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient SUV that can handle both city and light off-road driving. The starting price is competitive within its class, and Toyota’s reputation for long-term durability is a strong selling point over it's product sharing partner Suzuki. Additionally, the availability of various trims and options means there’s likely a Starlet Cross model to fit most budgets and needs and its looks are just an added bonus. 


 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
1.5L, 4-cylinder NA
Gear Box
5-Speed Manual
Torque
138Nm
Power
77kW 
Fuel Consumption        
5.6L per 100km
Price
R299,900



Friday, January 26, 2024

Bucket Seat: Toyota SOMI 2024


Yesterday's State Of Motoring Industry held at the iconic Kyalami racetrack saw Toyota South Africa go through the numbers of new vehicles sales in the country as well as analyse their own market share. Being one of the countries best selling brands for the better part of the last two decades, the Japanese manufacture is a leader in motoring in the country. Their plant in Prospecton Durban which now produces the Corolla Cross, among other models has also also adapted their production line to assemble hybrid cars. This segment has enjoyed a steady growth over the years but with full electric cars slowly coming into the market, it would be interesting to see what plans Toyota SA had to introduce their very own EV models to the market and they did not disappoint. 

Toyota took this opportunity to display some of their new models that would be hitting out shores during 2024 and 2025. Lets take a closer look at the models and their anticipated local launch dates:

Land Cruiser 70 Series


A legend in the off roading world and one that comes with the age old saying "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" but it did need an upgrade so Toyota have tinkered with the 70 Series to upgrade to the engine which is now the 2.8 GD-6, with a new 6-speed auto, a first for the model, updated cabin with infotainment system. The model will be launching in February. 

Land Cruiser Prado

Probably one of the most anticipated models worldwide hits our shores in April this year. The new Land Cruiser Prado has a modular design and square silhouette.  Based on the LC300 platform the car is big, and is powered by the same 2.8 GD-6 engine and 8-speed auto gearbox. The Prado will debut in three variants, being the First Edition and then followed by the TX and VX-R models. 

Toyota Hilux 48V



A game changer for one of South Africa's most loved bakkies see's the introduction of a mild hybrid model which launches in March this year. the 48V volt mild-hybrid electric package offers an additional 12kW and 65Nm of torque through the motor generator to the engine, it has regenerative braking, advanced stop/ start all to aid in fuel saving. There have been adjustments made to make the car more fuel efficient such as reducing the idle speed to 600rpm and improved acceleration which is assisted by the electric motor. The 48V will be available on all Hilux 2.8 Auto Raider, Legend as well as Fortuner 2.8 models. 

Toyota bZ4X


Toyota have confirmed the introduction of their first full electric model, the bZ4X, based on Toyota's eTNGA platform, a dedicated BEV platform. . It has striking styling, lots of angles, features dark contrast fenders for visual drama. The car which will be offered in FWD and Dual -Motor AWD with specs still to be confirmed. The car will have a 400km range in eco mode. 

Toyota GRS III



This model had huge traction online when launched globally with many locally asking if we would see it in SA, well brace yourself as its set to land on our shores in March this year! It's a menacing looking bakkie with the face grafted from the iconic Tundra with customised Dakar-bred styling. Wide-Tred body and bespoke GR interior make this one stand out from the crowd. Performance is boosted over the regular Hilux 2.8 GD-6 with power now at 165kW and 550Nm of toque. 

Lexus RZ



Another first see's Lexus introduce their first EV also coming in 2025, this model offered exclusively with dual motor AWD has  powerful motor that produce 150W to the wheels and kW to the rear. Lexus pioneered advanced Steer by Wire tech which gives you better control with the handling. The range varies between 375km and 450km.

Thursday, June 15, 2023

Bucket Seat: Toyota GR86


When building a great sports car, one of the fundamentals behind the design is to give the car perfect balance. Some would argue that power is all that matters but without balance, you're not going to be able to do those high speeds or do it comfortably. When Toyota first launched the 86 coupe, it was brought in as an affordable sports coupe for the purist, powered by a 2.0L Subaru sourced 4cylinder Boxer engine. It wasn't the fastest but with its design and low center of gravity, it proved to be quite a hit with many purely coming back to the fact that they managed to obtain a perfect balance and feel with the car. I got the opportunity to spend a week with the second generation 86 coupe which now dons the Gazoo Racing badge to see if they've managed to keep that balance and feel, along with a little bit more oomph from that new engine. 


DESIGN

The team at Subaru and Toyota again joined forces to produce a new look to the 86, while keeping the shape generally the same, the car has grown in length and width. The front styling is more distinctly Toyota with the rear very Subaru. The design is sleep with the front end having larger front headlamps with LED tech and day time running lights. The hood is more slanted and has a big gaping grille to allow for cooling to the engine bay. There is two angular air scoops with a black border that's directed at the front wheels for brake cooling with a matching air outlet behind the wheel arch, while these are functional, they add a very sporty look to the car. Certain angles when looking at the 86, it gives off Porsche Cayman vibes which isn't a bad thing if you ask me. The rear end is also very neatly designed with various height changes coming down from the back winds shield that tapers onto the boot lid, a nice little scoop style spoiler wraps around the curved edge with a solid black line that runs across the width and ties into the rear lights which have LED inserts for the indicators. The bottom diffusor is blacked out with twin round tailpipes on either end and like the previous generation 86, it features reflectors at the center. 18-inch 10-spoke blacked out rims adorned the GR86 which provides a great contrast to the bright red colour it is. The interior almost looks like a carbon copy of the old until you start inspecting it closely, you'll find that the design is actually better with a larger tub and great use of materials and textures adding to the sporty look. 


PERFORMANCE

The new GR86 is powered by a 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated boxer engine from Subaru that generates 174kW and 250Nm of peak torque, all which is fused to a 6-speed manual short shifting gearbox that will have you grinning like Eskom just announced no load shedding over the long weekend. Look, I can't guarantee you the no load shedding part but this car will bring you tonnes of enjoyment. When I was talking about balance in the start of this review, getting behind the wheel of the GR86 will tell you all you need to know about it, it's effortless in steering which is perfect as your one hand will be on the gear knob and the other maneuvering the wheel around the bends. Yes! That is just how good this car is, I very rarely found myself having the need to be ten-to-two with it because of its sporty nature and high torque, when going at it around the twisty's this car just comes into its element. Toyota's catch phrase for it is "born to perform" and my word does it live up to it. The D4-S dual injection engine allows for more aggressive throttle performance which gives it a grunt of note. It's quick off the mark and picks up speed on the straight well, it's top end speed isn't the greatest but as I found when driving the car, straight roads isn't it's play ground, throw some bends in and it will be leaving the competition in it's dust. 


COMFORT

It's a sports car, so its not meant to be comfortable, it's low to the ground which means getting in and out can be tricky for someone like me but you know what, i didn't care one bit. The sport seats are nice though, snug fit with extra padding means you and the front passenger have a nice comfortable chair to be in, to make it more fancy, they threw in two setting seat warmers! The dash is well laid out, lots of plastic used, I presume for weight saving purposes, while it is good quality plastic, I feel that could have changed things up with the introduction of some suede here and there. There's a large touch screen infotainment display that has built-in mobile apps that is only accessible via USB, this is located in the large center storage compartment. There's dual zone climate control which is controlled by the three dials below the screen, these have built-in LCD's that display the temperature and fan speeds. The flick switch type controls below are for the other AC controls such as demister and aircon modes. The three pedals and finished off in machined steel with large holes to complete the racing car look. The GR badge is prominent on the bottom of the wheel with multi-function controls for radio and telephone. The instrument cluster is digital with the rev counter large and in center to give you that ultimate Adrenalin boost when revving this bad boy up. The rear seats, if I could call them that isn't design for human seating if I'm being honest, apart form the space being really limited, it's not really comfortable as the front seats. It's better used for additional storage should the boot not be big enough. The back rests do drop to extend the luggage hold. While the boot is shallow, with the seats dropped I did manage to get two sets of golf clubs in there. 


VERDICT

I love this car, while many may dub is as a baby Supra I think that is doing an injustice to it. The GR86 has its own character and appeal. The amount of fun this car can bring you as a motoring purist is unparamount. I think due to it being a fiesty little sports car with brilliant handling, it gives you the type of exciting driving that you don't need to being going extremely fast. The near perfect weight distribution is adds to the thrill of the balance, the design of the car is sculpted for speed and with the GR badge added to the mix, it's got heritage behind it. While Subaru opted not to bring in their version of the car to our shores, I can understand why, with the Toyota badge on it along with the Gazoo Racing backing, this model would be the clear winner in sales. I don't know what else to tell you about this car but I'll tell you this, the night before I was handing it back, I just got off my couch at 8pm and decided to take a 60km drive up the North coast in Durban, just to make sure I got one last good joy ride out of it. 


SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
2.4L flat-four petrol boxer engine
Gear Box
6-speed manual
Torque
250Nm 
Power
174W
0-100km/h
6.4 seconds
Price
R733,500*

*base price