Deja-vu.
It’s that feeling you get when you think you’ve seen or been somewhere before, when it’s supposed to be all new.
That’s the feeling we got reading about Toyota’s new performance kit for the 86 sports car.
If it all sounds a bit familiar that’s because it is.
Toyota produced a run of 60 cars with the upgrade package back in June.
Then as now there’s no turbo and no extra more performance for the sporty coupe, although it’s being called a performance kit.
Available with both the GT and better specified GTS variants, the optional kit comprises larger Brembo brakes, specially tuned Sachs dampers and anthracite-coloured 10-spoke 17-inch alloys.
The good news is that it won’t cost you as much this time around, just $2900 with the GT or $2200 with the GT.
The price difference is because the GT jumps up a wheel size (not sure why this should make any difference, given that both cars are getting the same wheels).
GTS buyers can combine the performance pack with a new colour called Moon Slate.
This special variant also comes with red interior trim highlights and a unique black finish for the wheels, exterior mirrors and rear spoiler – all priced from $39,400.
The introduction of the optional performance kit comes with an upgrade for the car itself that sees satellite navigation added, along with an across-the-range update for multimedia system that includes Toyota Link connectivity.
The bad news is that the price of the car has gone up, with the GT now priced from $31,440 ($650 increase) or $36,640 ($150 increase) for the GTS – both with a manual transmission.
Toyota Australia’s Tony Cramb said the dynamic performance kit adds another dimension to an already finely balanced and popular rear-drive sports car.
“We’ve chosen two renowned performance suppliers – brands that are used in Formula 1 – to expand the 86 coupe’s credentials as a true driver’s car,” he said.
“These performance components will add to driver involvement and enjoyment, whether it is on the road or the track.”
