GR86 Rally Legacy Concept – SEMA 2024
Toyota unveiled the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept at the 2024 SEMA Show, paying tribute to the brand’s rich rally racing heritage with a modern twist. Based on the 2024 GR86 with the Performance Package, this innovative concept underscores Toyota’s dedication to performance, nostalgia, and the future of rally racing.
With whispers of the World Rally Championship (WRC) possibly returning to the U.S., Toyota embraced this moment to honour its motorsports legacy. Inspired by the legendary ST185 and ST205 Celica GT-Four rally cars, the GR86 features a complete transformation with the GR Corolla’s GR-FOUR AWD drivetrain and 3-cylinder turbocharged engine.
“Our goal was to evoke the spirit of a rally legend beloved by fans on stages and in video games alike,” said Paul Doleshal, general manager of Motorsports and Assets at Toyota Motor North America. “This concept began as a conversation about reimagining an icon for today.”
The project blended two GR family sports cars into a vision of what a modern Celica GT-Four could be. The main challenge involved modifying the GR86’s chassis to accommodate the GR Corolla’s taller, transverse-mounted G16E-GTS engine and AWD system.
Though the G16 engine could fit in the GR86’s engine bay, it required chassis modifications, including a custom subframe and engine mounts to allow clearance for the driveline and suspension. Converting the GR86 to all-wheel drive also required redesigning the front suspension to integrate GR Corolla hubs, spindles, and axles for front-wheel power. Custom coil-over dampers were added to each corner, along with custom control arms tailored to fit the subframe. The GR86’s steering rack was also modified to preserve steering feel and fit.
At the rear, the team replaced the GR86’s stock rear end with the GR Corolla’s differential and housing, preserving gear ratios, electronic functions, and power distribution. The GR Corolla’s rear axles were also modified for compatibility.
Engine enhancements include a performance intercooler for intake cooling and an oil cooler to regulate engine temperature. A race ECU manages fuel, spark timing, boost, and monitoring, holding the concept at the GR Corolla’s 300 hp and 273 lb.-ft of torque, with potential for more through future tuning.
Sporting a Halo White exterior with a heritage-inspired red and green palette, modern Toyota and Toyota Gazoo Racing logos, large red rally mudflaps, custom exhaust, and a Celica GT-Four-style spoiler, the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept fully embodies its rally roots. Inside, a white roll cage, racing seats with red six-point harnesses, and Toyota Gazoo Racing colours complete the cockpit.
“The GR86 Rally Legacy Concept reflects Toyota’s unwavering passion for rally racing,” said Mike Tripp, group vice president of Toyota Marketing. “We built this for our GR and rally fans—a fantasy car come to life, celebrating our achievements and rally’s potential return to the U.S.”
The GR86 Rally Legacy Concept represents Toyota’s unique approach to merging heritage with forward-looking innovation. On display at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, it stands alongside Toyota’s other showcase vehicles in Central Hall, Booth 22200, inviting attendees to experience Toyota’s commitment to performance on track or trail.