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Between fans asking for more power and some publications claiming it is the worst sports car to buy, the GR86 is in an unenviable place. The current-generation Toyota GR86 is nearing the end of its production, and the successor to the Japanese rear-wheel-drive coupe will include an electrified powertrain. In true tradition, the compact sports car will be sent off with at least one special edition. Recently, Toyota announced the GR86 Hakone Special edition, paying tribute to the Hakone Turnpike, in the Kanagawa Prefecture, in Japan. The car features tasteful upgrades by Toyota's Gazoo Racing, making it ideal for the technical road it is named after, but here's why you might want to save yourself the money.
What makes the 2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone Special Edition, um... special?
The most noticeable difference is the Ridge Green exterior finish, unique to the Hakone Edition. It's complicated by 18-inch, lightweight wheels, with a satin bronze finish. This also includes the new, more pronounced ducktail rear spoiler, which is finished in the exterior color.
The 2025 GR86 Hakone is based on the Premium trim and comes with unique tan-leather seat upholstery and a special shift knob with bronze accents. The GR86 Hakone Edition is based on the Premium trim, which gets you the following features:
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires
- Suede and leather sport seats
- Heated seats
- Adaptive headlights
- Eight-speaker sound system
- Ducktail spoiler
- Blind spot detection
More importantly, just like last year's Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition, the 2025 Hakone Special Edition benefits from the Performance package. This includes Sachs dampers and Brembo brakes with larger rotors. Re-tuned shock absorbers and electric power steering, and tweaked throttle mapping improve the car's overall performance without the need for engine modifications – something Japanese carmakers had to become extremely good at due to the Gentleman's agreement from some 40 years ago, limiting horsepower to 280.
Power for the 2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition remains the same as the normal car
The Toyota GR86's 2.4-liter, naturally-aspirated flat-four still develops 228 horsepower and 187 pound-feet, resulting in a 6.1-second 0 to 60 mph time (with the stick). The Hakone Special Edition will be limited to 860 units and will be available in the US. You can order it with the six-speed manual (which you should) or the six-speed automatic. Despite power staying the same, the GR86 is one of the most exciting Toyota models in 2024.
Is it worth buying the Toyota GR86 Hakone Special Edition?
Yes and no. If you are looking from a collector's perspective, yes. It might be worth spending a bit more on the GR86 Hakone Edition. Looking at the 2020 Toyota 86 Hakone Edition, current (2024) prices are identical to four years ago, when the car was brand-new.
If you plan on driving and thoroughly enjoying the vehicle, you might be better off spending less on one of the lesser trims, and adding the important bits yourself. Let's face it, the limited-slip differential is the key thing for the GR86, and it is a standard feature on all GR86 trims.
The dampers, Brembo brakes, and everything in between, you can add later. As a bonus, you get to make the car truly your own while spending less on the actual purchase. What are your thoughts? Would you spend more money on the GR86 Hakone Edition or would you get the normal one and make it your own?
About the author
Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.
Image source: 2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition
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