Can you sit in the back of a GT86?
The short answer is: yes, you can sit in the back seat, but space is extremely limited. The GT86 (also sold as the Toyota 86 in some regions and related to the Subaru BRZ/GR86) uses a 2+2 layout. It’s designed for sporty performance first, with rear seating intended for occasional passengers or children rather than regular, comfortable adult transport.
Rear cabin layout and space
The GT86 is a compact two-door sports coupe that emphasizes driver engagement and agile handling. Its rear bench is small and access is restricted by the narrow rear doors and a low roofline. Many markets offer rear seats that fold to increase cargo space, but folding them does not materially improve legroom for adults back there.
Access and seating comfort
Getting into and out of the rear is easier for shorter passengers or when the front seats are moved forward. Once seated, rear legroom and headroom are limited, making the space workable mainly for small passengers or very short trips for adults.
What to know before deciding who sits back there:
- Legroom is very limited; many adults will feel cramped on longer journeys.
- Headroom is tight, particularly for taller passengers due to the roof angle and stance of the rear window.
- Access to the rear is awkward because of the small doors and the need to reposition the front seats for space.
- The rear seat width is narrow; two adults in the back is generally uncomfortable.
- Most GT86 models offer a 60/40 split rear seat to expand cargo space when passengers aren’t using the back seats.
Bottom line: The rear bench can be useful in a pinch, but it is not a practical everyday seating option for adults on long trips.
Who should consider using the rear seats?
For owners who need occasional passenger capacity without moving to a larger four-seat car, the GT86’s back seats can work with the right expectations. This section outlines typical scenarios where the rear seats may be appropriate.
- Young children or small teenagers for short trips or errands.
- Adults on very short hops where comfort is less critical than getting everyone to the destination.
- Situations where rear seats are used mainly for cargo when folded, freeing up trunk space for larger items.
In practice, if you regularly carry adults in the back, consider a larger four-seat option for daily use.
Practical tips for using the rear seats
If you must use the back seats, these tips can help maximize space and safety:
- Push the front seats forward to maximize legroom for rear passengers.
- Ensure proper seat belt use and check for appropriate child-seat anchorage if needed.
- Fold the rear seats (if available) to increase cargo capacity when rear passengers aren’t using the seats.
- Plan for short trips rather than long journeys to maintain comfort and safety for all occupants.
These measures help, but the back of a GT86 remains a compact space that is best reserved for occasional use rather than everyday passenger comfort.
Summary
In summary, the GT86’s rear seats are functional but cramped. The car’s 2+2 layout means there is seating for four, but the back bench is most comfortable for children or for adults on very short trips. Prospective buyers should weigh the need for occasional rear seating against the car’s sporty character and consider alternatives if rear passenger comfort is a priority. The rear seats add versatility without sacrificing the GT86’s essential driving experience.
