After Subaru’s 2020 unveiling of the all-new BRZ, it was about time we saw the new Toyota GR 86, and this one is coming to the UK!

Replacing the Toyota GT86 is Toyota’s all new GR 86, rebranded to sit inside the Gazoo Racing division, hence the GR namesake, the 86 makes up the third member of the performance brand, alongside the Yaris and Supra.

What we know so far is that the car will replicate the GT86’s dimensions, measuring 4.4 metres long and 1.7 metres wide. While newer cars are getting heavier, the Toyota GR 86 stays true to its original image and thus weight has been kept to a minimum, with the new car representing an “under 50kg” weight increase. In total, it sits at 1270kg. While that’s no Lotus Elise, it is some 100kg lighter than the Porsche Cayman.

Powering the new Toyota GR 86 is the 2.4-litre Boxer engine also found in the Subaru BRZ. Free from forced induction, the naturally-aspirated four-pot produces a healthy 228bhp and 184lb ft of torque, which represents an increase of 31bhp and 33lb ft over the out-going GT86. As a result, the GR86 knocks off 1.3 seconds from its 0-62mph sprint time, now completing the test in 6.3 seconds thanks to a 184bhp/ton power-to-weight ratio (GT86 equated to 164bhp/ton). You have the option of a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.

We’re still thin on the ground with information, however, we do know that at the front will be MacPherson struts with double wishbones at the rear. It is unclear what dampers will be used, with rumours suggesting the old car’s optional Sachs dampers will be the new car’s standard option. Rigidity, however, is said to be up more than 50%. Those interested in tyre sizes will be pleased to know the car’s 215-section width remains, however, they grow an inch to 18.

Inside, Toyota has given the GR 86 a bit of a freshen up, with a new 7-inch TFT display and new infotainment system.

We’re waiting to hear about specific pricing, but with the Toyota GT86 costing £27,325, expect it to sit around the £30,000 mark when it arrives in 2022.

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Thought the BMW M8 was a bit much? Say hello to the Alpina B8 Gran Coupé, a four door luxury car with a thumping 620hp, twin-turbo V8 engine. In other words, Alpinas bread and butter.

Subtlety and luxury are two words that Alpina holds dear to its heart. Throughout countless BMW models, the memo has always been to produce not only a fast car, but one that embodies German luxury and comfort as well as having the driving dynamics down to a T.

So say hello to its latest model, the Alpina B8 Gran Coupé. Featuring a similar 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 as found in the BMW M8, its tuned to 620hp, which makes it just 5hp less than the M8 Competition, with an equal 590lb ft of torque. Alpina has tweaked the engine by “optimising turbocharging and cooling systems”, which includes a new intercooler.

That power is transferred to the ground via a 8HP76 automatic gearbox, which has been co-developed alongside ZF, and down to all four wheels for a 0-60mph sprint time of just 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 201mph! But it’s the chassis modifications that make all the difference.

New front axle struts with hydro mounts help ride comfort, while Eibach springs, stiffer suspension strut support mounts, reinforced sway bars on the front axle and stiffer low wishbone mounts complete the overhaul that, which according to Alpina, results in “excellent lateral dynamic properties.” In other words, it should handle pretty bloody well!

Interestingly, Alpina has also opted to use BMW’s Integral Active Steering (four-wheel steering), which is seen in the 850i but not on the BMW M8. Alongside ZF’s Active Kinematics Controls System, the rear wheels can move up to a maximum of 2.3 degrees left or right, which improves agility.

Elsewhere, 21-inch classic wheels hide Brembo brakes, while the front end gets a bigger intake. At the back, a sports exhaust system sits alongside a new rear diffuser and small rear lip spoiler.

The kicker? The Alpina B8 Gran Coupé costs an eye-watering £134,950, over £10,000 more than the BMW M8 Competition. Which would you pick?

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