Does GR86 have leather seats?
The GR86 is a lightweight sport coupe whose upholstery varies by trim and market. In short, base models normally come with cloth seats, while leather or leather-like seating is available on higher trims or through optional packages, depending on model year and region.
The interior strategy for the GR86 emphasizes weight and driver focus. While the entry-grade versions typically use fabric upholstery, higher trims or factory packages often add leatherette (synthetic leather) seating surfaces and related comfort features like heated front seats in some markets. Since specifications can change with updates and regional packaging, always check the exact build sheet for the car you’re considering.
Leather seating availability by trim and year
Overview of typical upholstery by trim and year, noting that specifications can vary by region and refresh.
- Base GR86: cloth upholstery standard; leather seating surfaces are not included by default.
- Higher trims: leatherette (synthetic leather) seating surfaces are commonly included, often with sport-seat styling and contrast stitching.
- Optional packages: some markets offer leatherette seating as part of an interior upgrade package, sometimes bundled with heated front seats or other comfort features.
- Regional/year variations: upholstery availability varies by market and model year; genuine leather is rarely standard and may be offered only on limited editions or not at all in certain regions.
When shopping, verify the exact upholstery on the trim and year you’re considering, as changes can occur with updates or regional packaging.
Market differences and model-year changes
Interior materials are adjusted by region and model year, reflecting local demand and supplier arrangements. The GR86 prioritizes a light-weight, driver-focused cabin, with leatherette seating usually reserved for upper trims and specific markets.
North America
In the North American market, leatherette seating is typically available on higher trims or as part of an interior upgrade package; base models usually come with cloth seats. Always confirm the upholstery on the specific vehicle via the dealer or the official build sheet.
To verify upholstery on a given GR86, you can follow these checks:
- Consult the official GR86 model-year page for your region to confirm available interior options by trim.
- Use Toyota's Build Your GR86 tool for your country/region to see what's included with each trim.
- Ask the dealership for the exact upholstery material for the car, citing the VIN or build sheet.
- Review the vehicle’s brochure or window sticker for terms like "cloth" or "leatherette."
- Inspect the car in person or request interior photos if shopping online to verify seat material.
Conclusion: If leather seating is essential, target a higher trim or verify availability with the dealer, as upholstery options vary by year and region.
Summary
Leather seating on the GR86 is not standard. It appears primarily on higher trims or through region-specific packages, with availability varying by model year. Prospective buyers should confirm the exact upholstery for their chosen trim and year by checking official spec sheets or consulting a dealer.
What are the common GR86 problems?
The Issue:
Many second-gen GR86/BRZ models develop a squeaky clutch pedal or notchy shifting early in life. The culprit is often the throwout bearing and clutch fork assembly, which leaves the factory with too little grease and a shallow internal grease trap.
Why is GR86 being discontinued?
The Toyota GR86 is being discontinued in some markets, particularly Europe, due to new safety regulations that would require major, costly redesigns to comply. While there were also initial concerns about emissions regulations in Japan, the primary reason for the discontinuation in regions like Europe was the inability of the current design to meet new safety standards without significant changes. However, a new third-generation model is expected to be developed and will likely be a hybrid.
Key reasons for discontinuation
- New safety regulations: Upcoming European safety regulations, such as Euro NCAP's General Safety Regulation 2, are the main reason for the discontinuation.
- Cost and engineering challenges: To meet these new standards, the GR86 would need to be completely re-engineered, which is not economically viable for a low-volume sports car like the GR86.
- Impact on design: Compliance with the new regulations would detrimentally affect the car's dynamic and performance-oriented character.
- Vehicle compatibility: The current GR86 design, particularly the windscreen, is reportedly incompatible with new technology required by the new safety rules, such as traffic light recognition systems.
- Market-specific issue: This issue is primarily affecting the European market, where the car will be discontinued in 2024. Other markets may be less affected or have a slightly different timeline.
- Manual vs. Automatic: In some markets, like Australia, the manual versions may be discontinued if they cannot be fitted with the mandatory autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system, which is not equipped on manual versions of the car.
Future outlook
- Third-generation model: The discontinuation does not signal the end of the GR86 nameplate. Toyota is reportedly moving forward with developing a third-generation model, possibly under its own in-house development team without Subaru's collaboration.
- New powertrain: The new model is rumored to have an electrified, turbocharged powertrain.
Does the Toyota GR86 have leather seats?
2025 Toyota GR86 Interior Design
The sporty, minimalist interior features premium seating options, including available leather and Ultrasuede® upholstery, which provide both style and support during high-performance driving.
