Toyota revives the legendary spirit of its rally cars from the 1990s with the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept, which combines rally history with modern components and technology. Read how this concept - the Toyota GR86 Rally Legacy Concept - transformed the classic rally aesthetic into a modern masterpiece.
Toyota, world famous for its successes in the World Rally Championship (WRC), recorded its first rally appearance as early as 1957. But its first victory came almost two decades later, in 1975. Since then, the brand has established itself as a synonym for rally success , especially after 2021, when she won every driver's title to date. To honor this heritage and modern dominance in the world of rally racing, Toyota has designed a special concept - the Toyota GR86 Rally Legacy Concept, which pays homage to the iconic Celica GT-Four ST185 and ST205 models.
GR86 Rally Legacy Concept: Respect for Tradition
Toyota used their GR86 model with the performance package as a base and upgraded it with parts from the Gazoo Racing line. This is how the concept was born, which evokes nostalgia and gives a glimpse of what the legendary Celica GT-Four would look like in a modern guise. Built between 1989 and 1993, the GT-Four ST185 cell won numerous titles and is regarded as Toyota's most successful rally car, while the ST205 succeeded it between 1994 and 1999.
Engine and Technology
At the heart of the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept lies the turbo 1.3-liter three-cylinder G16E-GTS, borrowed from the GR Corolla model, which develops 300 horsepower (221 kW) and 370 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, and the car is converted to four-wheel drive with the help of a GR Corolla rear axle and differential. A sports radiator and racing control unit have also been added to further improve performance.
Interior: Racing Cockpit Preparedness
The interior of the GR86 concept is almost unrecognizable, having been completely reworked to look more like a racing cockpit than a regular car. It is equipped with Sparco carbon seats, six-point seat belts, Sparco steering wheel and racing screen. The space where the trunk would normally be located is now reserved for a full-size spare wheel.
Bodywork and Aesthetics
Although it retains the lines of the GR86, the concept features a number of aesthetic upgrades, such as a four-unit hood light assembly, WRC mirrors and large red mudguards. The rear spoiler is reminiscent of the legendary Celica GT-Four, and the twin-pipe exhaust system stands out where the license plate would normally be. The entire concept is dressed in “Halo White” with red and green accents, which pay homage to the iconic color scheme typical of the Toyota Rally of the 1990s. Finally, there are forged Speedline wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Sport tires.
Conclusion: A Modern Tribute to Rally Legends
The Toyota GR86 Rally Legacy Concept isn't for sale, but it wowed fans at the recent SEMA Auto Show in Las Vegas. This concept combines modern components and technological upgrades with respect for history.
