Toyota unveiled a stunning tribute to its rally racing heritage at the 2024 SEMA Show with the Gr86 Rally Legacy Concept. This exciting concept car, based on the 2024 GR86 with Performance Package, is a modern interpretation of Toyota’s legendary Celica GT-Four rally cars of the 1990s, showcasing the brand’s enduring passion for performance and motorsports.
Fueled by rumors of the World Rally Championship (WRC) potentially returning to the United States, Toyota decided to celebrate its rich history in rally racing. The GR86 Rally Legacy Concept draws direct inspiration from the iconic ST185 and ST205 Celica GT-Four models, reimagining these rally legends in a contemporary package. The most significant change is under the hood, where the GR86 receives a complete powertrain transplant, adopting the turbocharged 3-cylinder, GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system from the acclaimed GR Corolla.
Paul Doleshal, general manager of Motorsports and Assets at Toyota Motor North America, explained the concept’s origins: “The aim is to evoke memories of the legendary rally car that enthusiasts have admired on rally stages and in popular racing video games. That idea led to a formative conversation about how cool it would be to create a modern interpretation of such an iconic car.” This vision involved merging the spirit of classic rally cars with the modern GR86 sports car.
The project presented considerable engineering challenges. The most demanding aspect was adapting the GR86 chassis to accommodate the GR Corolla’s taller, transversely mounted G16E-GTS engine and the GR-FOUR AWD drivetrain. While the G16 engine itself could physically fit within the GR86 engine bay and transmission tunnel, extensive modifications were necessary. The front of the chassis required alterations, along with the fabrication of a custom subframe and engine mounts to create the necessary clearance for the driveline and suspension components.
Converting the GR86 to all-wheel drive also demanded substantial changes to the front suspension. GR Corolla hubs, spindles, and axles were incorporated to deliver power to the front wheels. Custom coil-over dampers were installed at each corner, and custom control arms were fabricated to work in conjunction with the subframe modifications. Fine-tuning adjustments were made to the GR86 steering rack to ensure optimal steering feel and clearances.
At the rear of the GR86, the standard setup was replaced with the GR Corolla differential and housing. This swap was crucial to maintain factory gear ratios, electronic functionality, and power distribution. The GR Corolla rear axles also underwent modifications to achieve a proper fit within the GR86 chassis.
The G16 engine, already potent in its stock form, received further enhancements. A performance intercooler was added to cool the intake charge, improving engine efficiency and power. An oil cooler was also installed to manage engine oil temperatures under demanding conditions. Engine management is handled by a race ECU, ensuring precise fuel delivery, spark timing, boost control, and sensor monitoring across the engine’s operating range. Although the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept retains the GR Corolla’s factory output of 300 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft of torque, the upgraded engine management system and hardware pave the way for potential power increases through further tuning.
Visually, the GR86 Rally Legacy concept is striking. It features a Halo White exterior accented with a heritage-inspired red and green color scheme, seamlessly integrated with contemporary Toyota and Toyota Gazoo Racing logos. Key exterior highlights include prominent red rally mudflaps, a custom-designed exhaust system, and a Celica GT-Four-inspired rear spoiler, completing the vintage rally aesthetic.
The interior of the concept vehicle is equally focused on performance and rally heritage. A full roll cage, painted in bright white, dominates the cockpit. Racing seats equipped with red, 6-point racing harnesses secure the driver, aligning with Toyota Gazoo Racing’s signature color palette.
Mike Tripp, group vice president of Toyota Marketing, emphasized the concept’s significance: “The GR86 Rally Legacy Concept is a testament to Toyota’s enduring passion for rally racing. We did this build for our GR and Toyota Rally fans—it’s a fantasy car come to life, our way of celebrating our past achievements and the possibility of the World Rally Championship making a return to the United States.”
The GR86 Rally Legacy concept perfectly embodies Toyota’s strategy of blending its rich heritage with cutting-edge innovation. This concept, along with other featured Toyota vehicles, build projects, and production models, is on display at the 2024 SEMA Show from November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the Toyota booth (Central Hall, Booth 22200). Toyota invites SEMA attendees to experience firsthand the company’s commitment to delivering thrilling performance both on and off the track.
