The GR86’s chassis was modified to accommodate the GR Corolla’s taller, transverse-mounted G16E-GTS engine and GR-Four all-wheel drive drivetrain.

While the G16 engine could fit within the GR86 engine bay and transmission tunnel, some modification of the front of the chassis was required, along with a custom subframe and engine mounts to gain the clearance required for the driveline and suspension. Converting the GR86 to all-wheel drive also required significant modification of the front suspension to incorporate GR Corolla hubs, spindles, and axles to get power to the front wheels. Custom coil-over dampers were bolted onto each corner, and custom control arms were fabricated to complement the subframe modifications. Additional adjustments were made to the GR86 steering rack to ensure proper feel and clearances.

At the back, the team replaced the stock GR86 rear end with the GR Corolla differential and housing to maintain factory gear ratios, electronics functionality, and power distribution. The GR Corolla rear axles also required modification to fit properly.

The G16 engine itself benefitted from a host of upgrades, including a performance intercooler to chill the intake charge, and an oil cooler to reduce engine oil temps. Engine management duties were delegated to a race ECU to ensure spot-on fuel delivery, spark timing, boost control and sensor monitoring throughout. While the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept will retain the GR Corolla’s original specs of 300 horsepower and 370 Nm, there is the potential to increase these numbers with further tuning.

The GR86 Rally Legacy concept features a striking Halo White exterior with heritage-inspired red and green color palette, integrated with modern Toyota and Toyota Gazoo Racing logos. Notable exterior features include large red rally mudflaps, a custom exhaust, and a Celica GT-Four-inspired spoiler, complete the vintage rally look.

Inside the cockpit, this concept vehicle has a full cage, painted in bright white. The driver is held in place by racing seats with red, 6-point racing harnesses, aligning with Toyota Gazoo Racing’s color scheme.

Right now, the GR86 Rally Legacy is a show car with no plans for serial production. However, by bringing back nostalgia surrounding the Celica, it lends further credibility to Toyota’s plan to bring the Celica nameplate back. Remember, even Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda personally wants to see the Celica return.