Toyota Gazoo Rookie Racing has brought an updated TGRR GR86 Future FR concept to Okayama International Circuit with a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre inline-four engine. The number 32 experimental car is entered for round six of Japan's Super Taikyu series. The new powertrain is a significant change from the turbocharged three-cylinder engine used during the programme's earlier development.
At the final Super Taikyu round in 2025, the prototype ran a modified 1.6-litre turbocharged inline-three. The latest version has four cylinders and no turbocharger. A mechanic speaking to Japanese outlet Car Watch estimated output at around 200 metric horsepower and said the engine's weight had not changed substantially. Removing the turbocharger should also remove the lag associated with boost, potentially changing how the car responds in corners.
The new engine does not use a dry-sump lubrication system, although its oil pan is particularly shallow and the underbody has been adapted around it. Toyota has not formally released a full technical specification. The estimated power figure should therefore not be mistaken for a validated production-engine rating.
The car competes in ST-Q, Super Taikyu's development-oriented class for experimental vehicles accepted by the organisers. Driver Kazuya Oshima told Autosport Web that the team has spent years refining suspension geometry and handling. He also indicated that the latest car has undergone substantial weight reduction, without giving a definitive figure.
This is not confirmation that the next road-going GR86 will use an inline-four. The production GR86 currently has a 2.4-litre flat-four, while Future FR serves as a test platform for different approaches to a front-engined, rear-drive sports car. What is confirmed is the track appearance of a running development car with a fresh naturally aspirated engine, giving Toyota another set of data from competitive conditions.