Toyota Readying Sub-GT86 Model For Sale By Early 2018
Looking to bring some competition to the Mazda MX-5, Toyota is in the final prototyping phase for a model slotted underneath the GT86.
The sub-86 — dubbed 69DZ — is said to be powered by a 1.5-liter direct-injection I4 pushing 130 horses to the back via Aisin six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, and will weigh in at 2,160 lbs., Motoring.com.au reports. A source close to the matter says the car’s designers “have a final prototype that could very well go into production as is,” styled after the Toyota 800 from the 1960s.
Said styling was recently brought over to the limited-edition GT86 Cb Style, including the rounded headlights and grill, with the intent for the smaller model to be a baby brother to the Cb.
Seating is set for a 2+2 configuration, though the rear seats will likely be used to secure shopping purchases over small children. Flared wheel arches and a hood with a so-called “lump” — meant to accommodate both the I4 and 3.5-inch pedestrian-impact absorption zone — will also be onboard.
The 69DZ is set to go on sale in early 2018, with a base starting price equal to the base for the Corolla. Whether it will be a Scion — let alone sold in the United States — is yet to be determined.
[Photo credit: Toyota]
Seattle-based writer, blogger, and photographer for many a publication. Born in Louisville. Raised in Kansas. Where I lay my head is home.
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Cars can be successful without selling in the USA. This car looks unsuitable for the wide open spaces but I can see it being a hit in Europe and Japan.. Remember the Capuccino?
Appears to be the new Celica. One of my daughters had a couple of different ones and one of my sons had one. They loved 'em. They were cheap to own and operate and just the right size for young adults. Handling was pretty decent also. There might still be a market for them if done right. Toyota, however, should put more time in engines for this type car - all three Celica's the kids owned died from blown head gaskets.
So the FT86 isn't selling that well, so let's make a car with less power, and sell it for the price of a Corolla, but with less practicality. And make it sporty like a Miata but without the top-down experience. Give the pointless thing to Scion so they have one more model to wish they could sell.
Toyota reports JPY 1.823 trillion = USD $15 billion profits for fiscal year 2014. I approve that they would play on the margins with their petty cash. They could afford to put this in production and then give them away for free.