Toyota has been making waves at the SEMA show in Las Vegas with the introduction of their latest concept, the Toyota GR86 Rally Legacy. This concept car pays homage to the iconic Celica GT-Four rally cars from the 1990s while showcasing Toyota’s current performance capabilities by borrowing the powertrain from the GR Corolla.
The GR86 Rally Legacy is based on the 2024 GR86, but with some significant modifications to prepare it for off-road adventures. Toyota swapped out the original powertrain for the turbocharged three-cylinder engine and all-wheel-drive system from the GR Corolla hatchback. With enhancements like a performance intercooler, oil cooler, and race-spec ECU, the Rally Legacy now boasts 300 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque.
In order to accommodate the new powertrain, Toyota had to make modifications to the chassis, including custom subframes and engine mounts. The implementation of all-wheel drive required bringing over components from the GR Corolla, such as hubs, spindles, and axles. Custom control arms, coil-over dampers, and a reworked steering rack were also added to enhance the Rally Legacy’s performance.
Visually, the GR86 Rally Legacy is a sight to behold with its Halo White paint job and iconic red and green livery reminiscent of the Castrol-sponsored Celica GT-Four rally car. The addition of rally lights, mud flaps, and a custom exhaust further enhances the concept’s rugged appearance. Inside, a full roll cage, racing seats, and red six-point harnesses complete the race-ready interior.
While the GR86 Rally Legacy won’t be going into production, it does raise the question of whether Toyota is considering a more powerful version of the GR86 coupe with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive. This concept showcases Toyota’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation in the automotive industry.
Caleb Miller, a car enthusiast and writer, has been following Toyota’s latest concept cars closely. With a passion for quirky and obscure automobiles, he sees the potential for Toyota to continue pushing the limits of what is possible in the world of performance vehicles. As Toyota continues to unveil exciting new concepts like the GR86 Rally Legacy, the future of automotive innovation looks brighter than ever.
