Best Toyota GR86 Model Years (Ranked)
The Toyota GR86 is the second generation of the lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that began life as the Scion FR-S and Toyota 86, co-developed with Subaru. Arriving for the 2022 model year, the GR86 addressed the single biggest complaint about the original car by swapping the 2.0L boxer for a larger, torquier 2.4L flat-four producing 228 horsepower. It kept the things enthusiasts loved: a near-perfect balance, a slick six-speed manual, a low curb weight, and an accessible price. This ranking covers the best GR86 model years and variants, their powertrains, known issues, recall history, and where the value lies on the used market today.
The best overall Toyota GR86 is the 2024-2025 model with the six-speed manual, which refines the formula with a slightly stiffer chassis, standard safety updates, special editions, and the most sorted version of the 2.4L FA24 boxer engine. For shoppers focused on value, the best value is the 2022 GR86 Premium with the manual transmission, an early-build car that delivers the full driving experience at the lowest used price now that depreciation has settled. The automatic versions are competent commuters but dull the car's character, so manual cars are the ones to seek. Avoid early 2022 examples without documentation that the engine (RTV sealant) and Denso fuel-pump recalls were completed.
*Note: Prices vary significantly based on condition and market; these are representative of the model's typical market positioning.*
The diagram below traces the platform's lineage chronologically, from the original Scion FR-S through the renamed Toyota 86 to today's GR86.
This second diagram is a buyer's decision path that maps directly to the ranking below — start with transmission, then budget.
1. 2024-2025 GR86 (Manual) 🏆 BEST OVERALL
%2520%25F0%259F%258F%2586%2520BEST%2520OVERALL%2520Best%2520Toyota%2520GR86%2520Model%2520Years%2520(Ranked)%252C%2520realistic%2520magazine%2520style%252C%2520warm%2520light%252C%2520no%2520text%252C%2520no%2520watermark%3Fwidth%3D1200%26height%3D675%26nologo%3Dtrue%26model%3Dflux%26seed%3D99186&w=760&output=webp&q=80&we&n=-1)
The 2024-2025 GR86 is the most polished version of the car to date. Toyota added subtle chassis bracing and tuning revisions that sharpen turn-in without ruining ride comfort, and the 2.4L FA24 flat-four (228 hp, 184 lb-ft) is the most mature it has been after a couple of years of running changes. The six-speed manual remains a highlight, with short throws and a willing rev range.
These later cars also benefit from accumulated running fixes and special trims, including limited editions with upgraded suspension and aero. With the longest remaining factory warranty and the fewest open concerns, a clean 2024-2025 manual GR86 is the one to buy if your budget reaches a recent example.
2. 2022 GR86 Premium (Manual) 💎 BEST VALUE
%2520%25F0%259F%2592%258E%2520BEST%2520VALUE%2520Best%2520Toyota%2520GR86%2520Model%2520Years%2520(Ranked%252C%2520realistic%2520magazine%2520style%252C%2520warm%2520light%252C%2520no%2520text%252C%2520no%2520watermark%3Fwidth%3D1200%26height%3D675%26nologo%3Dtrue%26model%3Dflux%26seed%3D11681&w=760&output=webp&q=80&we&n=-1)
The 2022 GR86 Premium is the value champion. As the launch model year, it introduced the bigger 2.4L engine and the substantially improved interior with a digital gauge cluster, and it delivers the complete driving experience for the lowest current price. The best value is a 2022 Premium with the six-speed manual, which adds heated leather-and-Ultrasuede seats and 18-inch wheels over the base trim.
Depreciation has made these early cars genuinely affordable. Just verify the engine (RTV sealant) and fuel-pump recalls were completed, since early-build 2022 cars were the focus of those actions. A documented manual Premium is a brilliant used sports-car buy.
3. 2023 GR86 (Manual)
%2520Best%2520Toyota%2520GR86%2520Model%2520Years%2520(Ranked)%252C%2520realistic%2520magazine%2520style%252C%2520warm%2520light%252C%2520no%2520text%252C%2520no%2520watermark%3Fwidth%3D1200%26height%3D675%26nologo%3Dtrue%26model%3Dflux%26seed%3D47920&w=760&output=webp&q=80&we&n=-1)
The 2023 GR86 carried over the winning second-generation formula with minor running improvements over the launch year. It retains the 2.4L FA24 boxer, the excellent six-speed manual, and the balanced rear-drive chassis, while benefiting from any quiet build refinements made after the 2022 introduction.
For buyers who want a nearly new car without paying for the latest model year, a 2023 manual GR86 hits a sweet spot between price and freshness. It typically carries more remaining factory warranty than a 2022 and costs less than a 2024-2025 example. As with all GR86s, confirm the early recall work and prioritize a clean maintenance record and unmodified mechanicals.
4. 2025 GR86 Special Edition (Manual)
Toyota has released limited special editions of the GR86, including color-and-equipment packages with upgraded dampers, distinctive paint, and unique wheels. These cars take the standard 2.4L manual package and add visual flair plus, in some cases, suspension tuning that improves body control.
A special-edition GR86 commands a price premium and may hold value better than a standard car among collectors. The driving hardware is largely shared with the regular model, so buy one of these for the exclusivity, color, and trim rather than a dramatic performance leap. For a daily-driven enthusiast car, the standard manual delivers nearly the same thrills for less money.
5. 2022-2025 GR86 (Automatic)
The six-speed automatic GR86 makes the car easier to live with in traffic and is the right choice for buyers who cannot or prefer not to drive a manual. It pairs with the same 2.4L FA24 engine, and updated tuning improved its responsiveness over the prior generation's automatic.
The trade-off is character: the automatic blunts the engagement that defines the GR86, and these cars are less sought after by enthusiasts. The upside for value shoppers is that automatic examples often sell for less than equivalent manuals. If you want the looks, balance, and rear-drive handling without rowing your own gears, a clean automatic GR86 is a sensible and slightly cheaper way in.
6. 2013-2016 Scion FR-S (First Generation)
The Scion FR-S is where the lineage began. It used the smaller 2.0L FA20 boxer (200 hp) and the same lightweight rear-drive recipe, sold under Toyota's now-discontinued Scion brand in North America. It is the most affordable way into the platform and shares the GR86's sublime balance and steering feel.
The catch is the 2.0L engine's notorious mid-range torque dip and modest output, which the later 2.4L specifically fixed. Early FR-S cars can also show their age. Buy one as a budget track-day toy or first sports car, inspect for clutch and valve-spring service history, and accept that it is slower and less refined than the GR86.
7. 2017-2018 Toyota 86 (First Generation, Renamed)
When Scion folded, the FR-S became the Toyota 86 for 2017. The mechanical package was largely unchanged with the 2.0L FA20, but a mild update added a few horsepower on manual cars (now around 205 hp), retuned suspension, and freshened styling inside and out.
These cars offer the first-generation experience with Toyota badging and minor refinements, at used prices below the GR86. They share the same lightweight, tail-happy character and the same 2.0L torque limitations. A clean 2017-2018 manual Toyota 86 is a solid budget enthusiast pick. Watch for a valve-spring recall that affected certain 2013-2016 first-generation cars, and confirm clutch and maintenance history before buying.
8. 2019-2020 Toyota 86 GT / TRD Special Edition
The late first-generation Toyota 86 continued with the 2.0L engine but offered desirable trims, including the 86 TRD Special Edition with Sachs dampers, Brembo brakes, and 18-inch wheels. These upgraded-chassis cars address some of the standard car's braking and body-control limits and are sought after by enthusiasts.
A TRD Special Edition or well-equipped GT is the best of the first generation to drive, even if the 2.0L still lacks mid-range punch. Expect to pay a premium for the TRD's hardware and limited numbers. For buyers who want first-gen pricing with genuine performance upgrades, these late 86s are the smart choice over a base early FR-S.
9. 2022 GR86 Premium (Automatic)
The 2022 GR86 Premium with the automatic combines the launch-year value with everyday convenience. It has the 2.4L engine, the upgraded Premium interior with heated seats and 18-inch wheels, and the easiest-to-drive transmission, making it a comfortable daily that still looks and handles like a sports car.
The downside is the same as any automatic GR86: it dampens the engagement enthusiasts prize, and resale interest lags the manual. As an early-build 2022 car, it also needs the recall work verified. For a buyer who wants the nicer trim and an automatic at a low used price, and who is not chasing maximum driver involvement, this is a reasonable and budget-friendly choice.
10. 2013-2016 Subaru BRZ (Platform Twin)
The Subaru BRZ is the mechanical twin of the FR-S and 86, sharing the 2.0L FA20, the chassis, and nearly everything else, with slightly different suspension tuning and styling. It is worth knowing because a clean first-generation BRZ drives almost identically and can be cheaper or more available than the equivalent Toyota.
The trade-offs are the same 2.0L torque dip and the need to verify the valve-spring recall and maintenance history. If you are cross-shopping the platform and find a well-kept BRZ at a better price, it is effectively the same car. For the genuine GR86 badge and the bigger 2.4L engine, however, stick with a second-generation Toyota.
What to Watch For When Buying
The most important step is to confirm any recalls were completed through the VIN. Early-build 2022 GR86s were the subject of an engine recall tied to improperly applied RTV sealant (which could cause oil leaks or engine damage) and a separate Denso fuel-pump recall. Separately, certain 2013-2016 first-generation cars (FR-S/86/BRZ) had a valve-spring recall that could cause stalling or engine failure. Run the VIN through Toyota's recall lookup and the NHTSA database before you buy.
Beyond recalls, strongly favor the 2.4L second-generation GR86 over the 2.0L first-generation cars if you want real mid-range torque. On any example, inspect the clutch (a wear item these cars chew through when driven hard), look for track or autocross use, and check for modifications that may affect reliability or warranty. Documented maintenance and an unmodified drivetrain matter more than a low price.
How to Choose
Match the car to your priorities. For the best blend of performance, refinement, and warranty, a 2024-2025 manual GR86 is the answer. For the best value with the bigger engine, a documented 2022 or 2023 manual GR86 Premium is hard to beat now that depreciation has settled. Buyers who want everyday ease can accept the automatic and save money. Collectors should target a special edition or TRD for exclusivity and upgraded hardware. Strict-budget shoppers can drop to a first-generation FR-S, 86, or BRZ, but should accept the weaker 2.0L engine and verify the valve-spring recall. In every case, choose the manual when you can and prioritize a clean maintenance history.
FAQ
Which Toyota GR86 model year should I avoid? The riskiest buy is an early-build 2022 example with no proof that its recall work was done — specifically the engine RTV-sealant recall and the Denso fuel-pump recall, both of which targeted early second-generation cars. The cars themselves are good; an undocumented service history is the real problem. Always confirm the campaigns are closed by VIN before buying.
Is the automatic GR86 worth considering? The automatic is a capable daily driver with a smooth-shifting six-speed, but it reduces the car's engaging character and peak driving fun. Most enthusiasts strongly prefer the manual, and automatics typically hold value less well on the used market. If you commute in heavy traffic or can't drive a stick, it's a sensible — and often slightly cheaper — way into the platform.
How reliable is the 2.4L FA24 engine in the GR86? The FA24 is generally reliable when properly maintained, with the main early-production concern being the RTV-sealant recall on some 2022 cars. Routine oil changes and avoiding sustained high-rpm abuse help ensure longevity, and many owners report trouble-free ownership well past 30,000 miles. A documented maintenance record matters more than the model year here.
What's the difference between the GR86 and the Subaru BRZ? The two cars share the same platform, 2.4L engine, and most mechanical components, but the GR86 has slightly stiffer suspension tuning and different front-end styling. The BRZ often has a lower starting price, while the GR86 tends to offer more special editions. On the road the two feel close to identical, so cross-shop on price and availability.
Which GR86 trim level is the best buy? The Premium trim adds heated seats, a nicer sound system, and 18-inch wheels, making it the top choice for daily comfort and the strongest used-market demand. The base model is lighter and cheaper, but most buyers find the Premium's upgrades worth the modest price gap — especially paired with the manual.
How much should I expect to pay for a used GR86? Prices vary widely by year, mileage, and condition, so treat these as ballpark figures: a clean 2022 manual Premium typically lands in the mid-$20,000s to low $30,000s, while newer 2024-2025 cars and limited editions can ask $30,000 to $35,000 or more. Always check current local listings, since market conditions shift.
Bottom Line
The Toyota GR86 is one of the best affordable sports cars on the used market, and the second-generation 2.4L cars are the ones to target. The 2024-2025 manual is the best overall pick with the most refinement and warranty, while a documented 2022 Premium manual offers the best value now that prices have settled. Always choose the manual when you can, verify the early engine and fuel-pump recalls and the first-generation valve-spring recall through the VIN, and favor a clean, unmodified example. Buy carefully and the GR86 delivers pure rear-drive fun for the money.
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Sources
- Toyota USA official GR86 model history and specifications, toyota.com
- NHTSA recall database including the GR86 RTV-sealant, fuel-pump, and first-generation valve-spring campaigns, nhtsa.gov
- Wikipedia Toyota GR86 / 86 / Scion FR-S generations and technical specifications, en.wikipedia.org
- Edmunds Toyota GR86 reviews and used-car appraisals, edmunds.com
- Car and Driver Toyota GR86 road tests and specifications, caranddriver.com
- Kelley Blue Book Toyota GR86 used values by model year, kbb.com
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