Is the Toyota 86 automatic good?
In short, yes—the automatic version of the Toyota 86 provides smooth, convenient daily driving and solid performance, but it does not deliver the same level of driving engagement as the manual transmission.
How the automatic drives in everyday use
The following points cover the practical benefits and trade-offs you’ll notice behind the wheel.
- Automatic transmission advantages: Smooth shifts, effortless left-foot/right-foot operation in traffic, and the convenience of not managing a clutch pedal.
- Sporty feel with a twist: Even without a manual, the automated box can respond to sporty driving modes and paddle shifters, offering a more engaged feel than a typical everyday automatic.
- Noise and refinement: Powertrain and cabin remain reasonably refined at highway speeds, contributing to comfortable long-distance cruising.
Overall, the automatic version prioritizes ease of use and daily practicality while still preserving the car’s athletic character when you want to push it.
Automatic drawbacks for driving enthusiasts
These are the compromises you may notice if you value pure driver involvement and a traditional sports-car feel.
- Engagement gap: The automatic cannot quite replicate the tactile feedback and immediate connection of a manual, especially on tight back roads or a spirited canyon run.
- Shift responsiveness: Even in sport or paddle-shift modes, some drivers find the automatic’s gear changes slower or less precise than a manual’s clutch and gear lever.
- Rev-hanging character: The rev-happy, high-rev nature that many enthusiasts associate with the 86/GR86 is more pronounced with a manual, whereas the automatic doesn’t always harness the engine’s peak personality in the same way.
That said, for many buyers the automatic’s predictability and ease of use offset these drawbacks, especially for daily commuting or weekend cruises.
Who should consider the automatic?
Think about your typical driving scenarios and priorities when choosing between transmissions.
- Urban and commuter use: If you spend a lot of time in traffic, the automatic shines for convenience and stress-free driving.
- New or casual drivers: An automatic reduces clutch-related learning curves and can be more forgiving in stop-start conditions.
- Weekend fun without the manual commitment: If you want a sporty feel without constantly managing a clutch, the automatic with paddle shifters offers a balanced experience.
- Enthusiast resale and personal preference: Some buyers and collectors prefer a manual for its pure engagement, which can influence resale desirability in certain markets.
In most daily-use scenarios, the automatic remains a strong, practical choice; for maximum driving involvement, many enthusiasts still gravitate toward the manual.
Maintenance and reliability considerations
As with any modern car, proper maintenance helps keep the automatic transmission performing well over the long term. Key points to keep in mind:
- Follow the manufacturer’s service schedule for transmission fluid changes and inspections.
- Ask your retailer about any transmission-specific maintenance advisories for the model year you’re considering, especially if you’re choosing a car with the newer 2.4-liter engine.
- Regular maintenance, along with attentive driving habits, contributes to longevity and consistent performance.
Overall, the automatic transmission in the Toyota 86 has a solid track record when properly serviced, and it pairs well with the car’s light, nimble chassis.
Choosing the right transmission for you
Test-driving both configurations is the best way to decide. Consider how often you drive in traffic, how important driver engagement is to you, and whether you’ll use the car for occasional weekend thrills or regular daily errands.
What to test during a drive
When you test-drive, pay attention to throttle response, how quickly the automatic shifts, paddle-shift feel, and how the car behaves in corner-entry and mid-ccorner throttle applications.
Summary
The automatic Toyota 86 is a competent and convenient choice that suits daily driving and easier weekend cruising, while the manual remains the preferred option for drivers who value maximum engagement and a traditional sports-car experience. If you prioritize ease, comfort in traffic, and a modern, set-it-and-forget-it driving instructor, the automatic is good. If your priority is a pure, tactile connection to the car and the road, you’ll likely favor the manual.
