The Toyota GR86 continues to capture the hearts of driving enthusiasts looking for affordable rear-wheel-drive fun, and for the 2026 model year, Toyota is keeping the momentum alive with another eye-catching special edition: the GR86 Yuzu Special Edition. While the core of the GR86 remains unchanged—still naturally aspirated and still wonderfully analog—the new Yuzu variant revives a vivid color from the model’s history and adds exclusive features aimed at performance-focused buyers.
A Nod to the Past With a Pop of Color
The name “Yuzu” doesn’t just sound bold—it looks the part. The entire body of the 2026 GR86 Yuzu Special Edition is painted in a blazing yellow hue that originally appeared on the 2015 Scion FR-S Series 1.0. This particular color carries historical significance for Toyota’s compact sports car, creating a sense of continuity between the past and the present. For those familiar with the GR86’s roots, this is a retro callback to the model’s early days under the now-defunct Scion brand, which Toyota phased out in 2016.
Not Just for Show
While the yellow exterior makes the Yuzu edition stand out visually, Toyota ensures it’s more than just a cosmetic update. The Performance Package, which includes Brembo front and rear brakes and SACHS shock absorbers, comes standard—equipment usually offered as a dealer-installed option on other GR86 trims. This mirrors the exclusive setup seen previously on the 2024 GR86 Trueno Edition.
Inside, the yellow theme continues subtly but effectively. Yellow contrast stitching on the steering wheel, handbrake, and door padding adds character, while black sueded seats with yellow accents deliver a sportier feel. Matte-black 18-inch wheels round out the aggressive aesthetic.
Proven Mechanics for a Pure Driving Experience
Mechanically, the Yuzu Special Edition retains the tried-and-true setup of the GR86 lineup. Under the hood sits a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four engine, producing 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Customers can choose between a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, with the manual widely regarded as the enthusiast’s choice.
While the GR86 isn’t turbocharged—and therefore not blisteringly fast—it delivers a balanced and connected driving experience that’s become increasingly rare in today’s market. This is a driver’s car, designed not for straight-line speed, but for agility, control, and engagement on winding roads and tracks alike.
Who Is the GR86 Yuzu Special Edition For?
The 2026 Toyota GR86 Yuzu is best suited for:
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Driving purists who value balance and manual gearboxes over raw power.
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Collectors and fans of Toyota’s sports car history, particularly those who remember the Scion FR-S era.
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Younger enthusiasts or those looking for a second “fun” car that doesn’t break the bank.
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Track-day hobbyists who want performance features like Brembo brakes and SACHS suspension in a lightweight platform.
With only 860 units allocated for the U.S. market, exclusivity is guaranteed. It’s expected that many of these cars will be snapped up quickly by collectors and GR86 fans.
Future Prospects in the Used Car Market
From an investment perspective, limited-run models like the Yuzu Special Edition tend to hold their value better than base versions, especially when production numbers are this low. Just like the 2015 Scion FR-S Series 1.0, the Yuzu’s unique paint and factory upgrades could make it highly desirable on the used car market in the years to come.
For customers purchasing used vehicles through Autocom Japan, rare models like the GR86 Yuzu represent excellent opportunities. We anticipate that in the next 3–5 years, well-maintained examples of this variant may fetch a premium compared to standard GR86 models—especially if they remain unmodified and in original condition.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Toyota GR86 Yuzu Special Edition is a celebration of everything that makes the GR86 platform special: lightweight performance, natural aspiration, manual transmission availability, and a driver-first philosophy. Add in its striking yellow finish and exclusive performance upgrades, and the Yuzu becomes more than just another special edition—it’s a bright, confident reminder of what sports cars should be.
Whether you’re looking to import a GR86 for your collection or seeking a rare used car investment, Autocom Japan can help you source models like this directly from Japan. With access to exclusive auctions and real-time market insight, we make buying a rare sports car easier and more reliable than ever.
