Toyota is making a strong impression at the 2023 SEMA show with its GR86 Rally Legacy concept, a rally-ready evolution of the 2024 GR86. Following other recent concept cars like the 4Runner TRD Surf and Land Cruiser ROX, this latest concept takes inspiration from Toyota’s rally icons of the 1990s, particularly the legendary Celica GT-Four. Sporting a vintage-inspired livery and equipped with Toyota’s modern performance technology, the GR86 Rally Legacy is designed to show how the GR86 could be adapted for serious off-road capability.
This rally-themed GR86 breaks away from the standard model by swapping out the usual 2.4-liter flat-four engine for the turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder from the GR Corolla, significantly boosting power. Paired with an all-wheel-drive system, this new setup brings the car up to 300 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, a considerable increase over the standard GR86. The concept’s upgraded powertrain underscores Toyota’s interest in enhancing the GR86’s capabilities and exploring new performance possibilities.
Transforming the GR86 to fit the GR Corolla’s powertrain and all-wheel drive required a series of detailed structural modifications. Toyota built a custom subframe and engine mounts to accommodate the taller, transverse-mounted engine. Additionally, parts from the GR Corolla, such as the hubs, spindles, axles, and differential, were integrated into the design, alongside custom-built control arms and coil-over dampers. The result is a thorough reconfiguration of the GR86’s original design, effectively turning it into a rally-capable machine.
On the exterior, the GR86 Rally Legacy channels Toyota’s classic rally look with a bold Halo White paint job, accented by red and green graphics reminiscent of the iconic Castrol-liveried Celica GT-Four. The addition of red mud flaps, a center-mounted exhaust, and a large rear spoiler give the concept a purposeful rally aesthetic. Up front, rally lights enhance its rugged appearance, while the interior is fitted with racing essentials such as a full roll cage, racing seats, and six-point harnesses, emphasizing its off-road ambitions.
Although this rally-inspired GR86 won’t be mass-produced, the concept suggests Toyota is open to expanding the GR86’s performance profile with a more powerful, all-wheel-drive variant. By combining the GR Corolla’s turbocharged engine and AWD system with the GR86 platform, Toyota hints at exciting new directions for its sports car lineup. This concept embodies Toyota’s commitment to innovation in performance, offering fans an idea of how a rally-ready GR86 might look and perform in the future.
