Toyota introduced its GR86 Rally Legacy Concept at the 2024 SEMA Show, paying tribute to the brand’s rally racing history. The concept vehicle, based on the 2024 GR86 with Performance Package, combines Toyota’s rally past with a vision for the future of motorsport.
Photo: Toyota USA
The concept was sparked by speculation about the World Rally Championship (WRC) returning to the United States, prompting Toyota to celebrate its rally heritage. Inspired by the ST185 and ST205 Celica GT-Four models, the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept integrates the GR Corolla’s 3-cylinder turbocharged GR-FOUR AWD drivetrain.
Photo: Toyota USA
Photo: Toyota USA
“The goal was to evoke memories of the iconic rally cars that enthusiasts have admired on rally stages and in popular video games,” said Paul Doleshal, general manager of Motorsports and Assets at Toyota Motor North America. “That led to the idea of creating a modern interpretation of the Celica GT-Four.”
Photo: Toyota USA
Photo: Toyota USA
Merging two GR sports cars presented technical challenges, particularly adapting the GR86’s chassis to house the taller, transverse-mounted G16E-GTS engine and GR-FOUR AWD system. Modifications included a custom subframe, engine mounts, and changes to the front suspension to fit the GR Corolla’s hubs, spindles, and axles. A race-spec ECU was added to manage fuel, timing, and boost, keeping the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept at 300 hp and 370 Nm of torque.
Photo: Toyota USA
Externally, the concept sports a Halo White exterior with red and green accents, large rally mudflaps, a custom exhaust, and a Celica GT-Four-style spoiler. Inside, a full safety cage, racing seats, and red 6-point harnesses enhance its rally-ready feel.
Photo: Toyota USA
Photo: Toyota USA
Photo: Toyota USA
“The GR86 Rally Legacy Concept is a celebration of Toyota’s rally racing passion and our fan community,” said Mike Tripp, Toyota’s group vice president of Marketing. “It’s a nod to our history and a hopeful look toward the WRC returning to the U.S.”
Photo: Toyota USA
Photo: Toyota USA
Photo: Toyota USA
Of course, it is worth noting that while Toyota officially made this vehicle for SEMA, they turned to Evasive Motorsports to create this one-off GR86, so this isn’t a factory-made vehicle but rather a collaboration made by Toyota USA.
