Latest news with #ToyotaGT86
Irish Examiner
06-07-2025
- Automotive
- Irish Examiner
'Story is only getting started' - Spike Island thrills to Drift drama
Some of the top Irish drift drivers thrilled the capacity crowd on Spike Island on Saturday evening as Buttevant's Alan Hynes beat 15 other drivers to win the Red Bull Drift Pursuit. He held off the challenges of second-placed Stephen Halferty (Derry) with Jakub Krzyszczak (Waterford) winning the battle for third from Jake Davey (Galway). For almost two hours the head-to-head competition kept the attendance on their toes before local hero Hynes took the title in front of a majority Cork crowd. In glorious sunshine, the fans were treated to demonstration drives on the custom-built course by world drift stars, brothers Conor and Jack Shanahan from Killavullen in their Toyota GT86's. There was also an appearance from Irish World Rally Championship driver Derry's Josh McErlean in the M-Sport Ford Puma Rally1, who also showcased his talents to the fans at the iconic location. Hynes was thrilled with his victory, "It's a pretty special moment. I really enjoyed it (Red Bull Drift Pursuit) last year, this year was even more special being in here on Spike Island, the cherry on top really. He added: "What a special venue, a special place, a special event. It's an amazing feeling. The opposition was immense and Stephen (Halferty) pushed me all the way. I was racing in Europe last weekend and had a big crash, so it was nice to come here and take the win." Meanwhile, as he enjoyed some time in his native county, Conor Shanahan, who currently leads the Drift Masters European Championship (DMEC) and displayed why he is regarded as one of the best in the world, said, "Personally, I feel every time we look at ourselves in drifting and how look at the sport these days and how big the sport is getting, to be here in Spike Island with an event, it's pretty unique, who would have thought that ten years ago, there is so much history here. "To do it close to home and have local support is pretty special. Home is always special. This story is only getting started, there's a lot to write yet."
Irish Examiner
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- Irish Examiner
Spike Island Drift homecoming for fast and furious Shanahan
Accustomed to wowing crowds all over the world, Red Bull athlete Conor Shanahan is looking forward to showcasing his motoring talents this Saturday on Spike Island, a once military fortress, notorious prison and now a stunning tourist destination within Cork Harbour that will host the Red Bull Drift Pursuit for sixteen of Ireland's top drifters in a head-to-head knockout format. Shanahan and his brother Jack will perform demonstration runs in their Toyota GT86 as will Irish WRC driver Josh McErlean in the Red Bull liveried M-Sport Ford Puma Rally1 car. Killavullen native Shanahan and current leader of the European Drift Masters Championship isn't chasing the dream anymore - only because he's already realised his boyhood ambition. His racing schedule involves competing in Europe and America, the latter where he owns and runs his own team that also involves his older brother Jack. His choice of motorsport as a career isn't surprising given that he was raised on the sounds of high performance engines. His family are steeped in motorsport, dad John was (or should we say still is) a popular figure in rallying and his mom Valerie won the British Autograss Championship. Conor (left) and Jack Shanahan at the Drift Masters European Championship in Madrid, Spain. Picture: Joerg Mitter / Red Bull Content Pool. He describes those early days habitually verbalised by his recent times in America and the constant use of the phrase "I guess" rather than the more frequently used motorsport term "for sure. "I actually enjoyed school, I guess the atmosphere; figuring out my life as I got older; trying to understand the arguments with my mother at the bottom of the stairs about do I want to go to school? I guess I always knew I wanted to do something with a skill. At that stage, I guess I didn't really know whether it was rallying or drifting or circuit racing, I was massively into karting at the time." That vision accelerated when he attended secondary school. "I guess towards the end of national school, I knew I was definitely going to be involved in motorsport. I started secondary school (Davis College, Mallow) went (racing) to Europe when I was 14 and had a massive win. I was the youngest ever to win there and it was a huge night for me and my family. I beat James Deane (near neighbour) in the final. "After that I guess my vision started to change. I reckoned if I started to take this even more serious, I could be better. If I started training on a simulator more - all these things started to come into my head. I was trying to find a balance with school." Conor Shanahan (left) and Tor Arne Kvia perform during the Round 3 of Drift Masters European Championship in Alahärmä, Finland last month. Picture: Mihai Stetcu / Red Bull Content Pool . Transition year allowed Conor more time out of school and more time racing - a better life balance and a move closer to the ultimate decision. "I remember at the start of fifth year it was actually a very simple conversation I had with my mom and I said this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. I guess she didn't agree with me leaving school. I looked at all the resources afterwards and I felt education in Ireland can be achieved no matter what, whether you go back at a later stage as a mature student. I always wanted to be self-employed and I always wanted to own my own business, that was my goal." He continued, "I met the school principal, and we had a conversation. The one thing I will always respect about Davis College is that Mr. Gilbert (the principal at the time) had a very good conversation with me and my mom. He never held me back, he said, if you think that you have something special, now is the time to go for it." Those words proved prophetic and made the transition somewhat easier for his mother to understand. "My dad was full in, I guess he was going to support me no matter what I wanted to do. I faded out of school and started to work towards becoming what I am now I guess." Admitting he always tried to figure ways to make money, he added, "I was always trying to learn marketing and business and understand the value of money, where different companies will spend money on drifting and trying to understand the market as much as I could." Conor Shanahan performing during the European Drift Masters at Mondello Park, Naas last weekend. Picture: Jaanus Ree / Red Bull Content Pool. The business under 'The Shanahans' banner is very much a family affair as brother Jack also inherited the family's motorsport genes. "Jack and myself have a very good relationship, it's rare for two brothers to be at a very high level of sport and be as successful as each other and not kill each other! To be honest it's amazing for me that we can have that relationship and run a team together and drive together. We race each other hard we've always raced each other hard, the most impressive part is that we have a good friendship outside of being brothers." His recent competitive escapades took him to Orlando, Florida then back to Finland and home for some precious downtime with family and friends. He describes his itineraries as rapidly as he flicks his Toyota GT86 on the track. "At the moment it's more time in a plane than on the ground. There's not much time at home." Jack Shanahan (left) and his brother Conor seen during the final round of the 2023 Drift Masters European Championship in Warsaw, Poland. Picture: Joerg Mitter / Red Bull Content Pool . Such is his hectic schedule, he could be forgiven for bilocation. "I'm kind of based out of America and at home at the same time. It's non-stop. I spent the first three or four months of the year in the States, it was nice to get home and see my friends from Killavullen that I grew up with, nice to clear the head and do something different." He appreciates being part of the Red Bull family. "They have been amazing for my career. Outside of the financial factor they have pushed me in the right direction and I guess, be the best I can be at my sport. They're a huge fan of drifting, as are all the other companies that are involved with us. They are all very passionate about helping us to be the most successful in the sport." Although he enjoyed competing in the Rally of the Lakes earlier this year and won took a class award, he would only consider competing at the top level here in Ireland if the resources (financial package, testing) were to be put in place. "It's (rallying) not out front right now. If somebody was willing to get behind it on a financial level to be in a position where you're decently on the pace and in a Rally2 car, it would be a lot of testing, a lot of understanding of how the car works. I would be willing to give it a go, I definitely could get very fast if I had the right resources behind me." Right now though Conor is focused on Saturday's event that is a sell-out. "I hope it will open up a few doors to new spectators or new people to the sport. That's always the goal for me I guess. Drifting can be a little bit hard to understand until you see it in person and I think what Red Bull are doing with Drift Pursuit is a very good way for an audience to get a feeling of what a drift car is doing and have a race format. Kilavullen's Conor Shanahan (Toyota Starlet) and his Wexford co-driver Andy Hayes won Class 14 in the Assess Ireland Rally of the Lakes last May. Picture: Martin Walsh. "The fans are younger, the environment that people are around is something they can enjoy as a family, the kids are starting to know the characters. For sure Spike Island will definitely draw some new faces. "It's something that's never been done in Ireland or pretty much anywhere in the world. As always when Red Bull take a little bit of a risk with an event it's always absolutely amazing so I'm sure it's going to be incredible." For Conor himself, it's all part of a truly amazing and continuing journey that takes him all over the world with a little downtime in Killavullen.
Time Business News
02-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time Business News
2025 Toyota GR86: Price, Features & BRZ Comparison
The Toyota GR86 is a sports car that ignites passion. It's fast, stylish, and budget-friendly. For drivers who crave excitement, this car delivers. Part of Toyota's Gazoo Racing (GR) lineup, it offers pure driving joy. In this guide, we'll explore its price, features, and how it compares to the Subaru BRZ. Additionally, we'll cover models like the Toyota CHR Hybrid and Toyota GT86. Let's dive into the adventure! The GR86 is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupe. It's built for thrilling drives. For example, its low center of gravity ensures precise cornering. Moreover, the sleek design and powerful engine attract car enthusiasts. The GR86 builds on the legacy of the Toyota GT86 and iconic Toyota AE86. Best of all, it's affordable compared to other Toyota sports cars. Engine: 2.4L 4-cylinder boxer Horsepower: 228 hp Torque: 184 lb-ft Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic Drive: Rear-wheel drive Fuel Economy: 20 MPG city, 27 MPG highway (manual); 21 MPG city, 31 MPG highway (automatic) Starting Price: $31,085 The car is designed for performance. For instance, it offers sharp control. Features like Brembo brakes and SACHS dampers (on higher trims) enhance handling. Meanwhile, the Hakone Edition adds unique style with Ridge Green paint and bronze wheels. The starting price for the 2025 model is $31,085 for the base trim. The Premium trim costs $33,405. Furthermore, the Hakone Edition is priced at $36,405. These prices make it a top pick among sports cars. In comparison, the Subaru BRZ starts at $32,380, slightly higher. Here's a table showing the 2025 prices: Trim Starting Price Key Features Base $31,085 6-speed manual, 17-inch wheels, 6 speakers Premium $33,405 18-inch wheels, 8 speakers, heated seats Hakone Edition $36,405 Brembo brakes, SACHS dampers, Ridge Green paint Prices vary by region. For example, in the UAE, the Toyota GR86 price is around AED 108,000 ($29,400 USD). Therefore, always check with local dealers for exact costs. The GR86 boasts impressive specs. Its 2.4-liter boxer engine produces 228 horsepower. This is a significant upgrade from the Toyota GT86's 2.0-liter engine. As a result, it hits 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds (manual) or 6.6 seconds (automatic). Additionally, its lightweight design enhances agility. Engine Type: 2.4L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder boxer Horsepower: 228 hp at 7,000 rpm Torque: 184 lb-ft at 3,700 rpm Top Speed: Around 140 mph Weight: 2,811 pounds (base trim) The rear-wheel-drive setup ensures sharp handling. For example, it excels in tight corners. The car also features Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), adjustable for track driving. Consequently, drivers can push the limits safely. 2025 Toyota GR86 Engine The interior is driver-focused. It has sporty seats and a simple layout. Moreover, the 8-inch touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims add heated seats and an 8-speaker audio system. However, the rear seats are small, better suited for storage than passengers. The GR86 includes Toyota's Active Safety Suite (automatic models only). This features: Automatic emergency braking Lane departure warning Adaptive cruise control Similarly, the Subaru BRZ offers Subaru's EyeSight system. Both cars include airbags and anti-theft features. As a result, they prioritize safety without sacrificing fun. The GR86 and Subaru BRZ are like siblings. They share the same platform and engine. However, they have unique traits. Let's break it down. Both cars use a 2.4L boxer engine with 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. They offer manual or automatic transmissions. The GR86 reaches 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, slightly faster than the BRZ's 5.9 seconds. Moreover, the GR86's stiffer suspension feels sportier. In contrast, the BRZ's softer suspension offers a smoother ride. The GR86 has a bold grille and a ducktail spoiler on higher trims. On the other hand, the BRZ has sleeker lines. The Hakone Edition features unique green paint. Similarly, the BRZ's trim, limited to 500 units, sports a vibrant purple color. Therefore, both cars stand out. Both interiors are similar. However, the GR86 offers red or white accents. Meanwhile, the BRZ has blue stitching in its tS trim. The GR86's Premium trim includes Ultrasuede seats, while the BRZ's Limited trim offers comparable features. As a result, both prioritize driver comfort. 2025 Toyota GR86 Interior Here's a table compararison: Model Starting Price Top Trim Price Toyota GR86 $31,085 $36,405 (Hakone) Subaru BRZ $32,380 $37,530 (tS) The GR86 is more affordable. Ascendingly, it includes a free High-Performance Driving Experience. Choose the GR86 for a sportier feel and lower price. Pick the BRZ for a smoother ride and Subaru's reliability. Both are excellent choices for Toyota sports car fans. The GR86 isn't Toyota's only sporty vehicle. Let's compare it to the Toyota CHR Hybrid and Toyota GT86. The Toyota CHR Hybrid is a compact crossover. It focuses on fuel efficiency, not speed. For instance, it gets 43 MPG combined, far better than the GR86's 27 MPG (manual). However, the GR86 offers thrilling handling. In the UAE, the Toyota CHR price starts at AED 95,000 ($25,900 USD). Therefore, the CHR is better for daily commuting. The Toyota GT86 was the GR86's predecessor. The GR86 has a larger 2.4L engine compared to the GT86's 2.0L. It also has more power (228 hp vs. 205 hp). Furthermore, the GR86 features updated styling and a larger touchscreen. As a result, it's the modern choice for performance seekers. The Toyota GR family includes the Corolla GR. This hatchback offers 300 hp and all-wheel drive. However, it's pricier, starting at $36,500. In contrast, the GR86 is more affordable and focuses on lightweight, rear-wheel-drive fun. Consequently, the GR86 is ideal for purists. The 2025 Hakone Edition is a special trim. It's named after Japan's Hakone Turnpike, a famous driving road. This edition includes: Ridge Green exterior paint Bronze 18-inch alloy wheels Tan Ultrasuede interior Brembo brakes and SACHS dampers Only 860 units are available. Therefore, it's highly exclusive. It's perfect for drivers seeking style and performance. 2025 Toyota GR86 The Toyota GR lineup is rooted in racing. The GR86 competes in events like the Super GT Championship. Its lightweight design and balanced chassis make it a track star. Moreover, Toyota's Gazoo Racing team fine-tunes it for performance. As a result, it's a favorite among racers. The GR86 faces rivals like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Ford Mustang. The Miata has less power (181 hp) but similar handling. Meanwhile, the Mustang offers 315 hp but is pricier. Consequently, the GR86 balances affordability and fun. For example, it's ideal for budget-conscious thrill-seekers. In the UAE, the GR86 is popular among sports car fans. Its price starts at AED 108,000. In contrast, the Toyota CHR price in UAE is lower, but the GR86 offers unmatched thrills. Both cars have sporty designs. However, the GR86 is built for performance driving. Some confuse VSC Lexus with the GR86's Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). VSC prevents skids and is standard on the GR86. For instance, you can adjust it for track driving. Lexus models, like the IS, use VSC for luxury driving. Therefore, the GR86's VSC is tailored for sporty performance. The 2025 GR86 is a top pick. Here's why: Affordable Price: Starts at $31,085, cheaper than rivals. Thrilling Drive: Rear-wheel drive and sharp handling are exciting. Unique Style: The Hakone Edition adds flair. Reliable: Toyota's reputation ensures durability. However, the rear seats are cramped. Also, road noise can be noticeable. Nevertheless, the GR86 offers incredible value for Toyota sports car enthusiasts. Before buying, consider your needs. For example, decide between manual or automatic transmission. The manual offers more engagement, while the automatic is easier for daily driving. Additionally, test-drive different trims. The Hakone Edition is exclusive but pricier. Therefore, weigh style against budget. Finally, check for deals or incentives at local dealers. The GR86 is affordable to maintain. For instance, oil changes cost $50-$80. Tires last around 30,000 miles and cost $600-$800 to replace. Moreover, Toyota's warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles. As a result, ownership costs are reasonable for a sports car. However, track driving may increase wear on brakes and tires. How much is a Toyota GR86? The 2025 Toyota GR86 starts at $31,085 for the base trim. The Premium trim costs $33,405, and the Hakone Edition is $36,405. Prices vary by region, like AED 108,000 in the UAE. How much is Toyota GR86? The 2025 Toyota GR86 has a starting price of $31,085. The Premium trim is $33,405, while the Hakone Edition costs $36,405. Regional prices, such as AED 108,000 in the UAE, may differ. When did the Toyota GR86 come out? The second-generation Toyota GR86 was released in December 2021 for the 2022 model year. The 2025 model, with updates like the Hakone Edition, became available in fall 2024. Toyota GR86 how many seats? The Toyota GR86 has a seating capacity of four. However, the rear seats are very cramped, better suited for storage or small children than adults. The 2025 Toyota GR86 is a dream for sports car lovers. Its affordable price, powerful engine, and sharp handling make it a standout. Compared to the Subaru BRZ, it's sportier and cheaper. Whether you choose the Hakone Edition or base trim, it delivers thrills. Ready for the ride? Visit a Toyota dealer today! TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Auto Car
30-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Car
Used Toyota GT86 2012-2021 review
Is the Toyota GT86 reliable? The GT86 is a reliable car and shouldn't present any major issues if it is regularly maintained with oil changes and a service. Indeed, it isn't totally free of issues (see below) but theses are all well known and repairable. Many owners if forums have shared stories of driving their cars well over 100,000 miles without any problems. Engine: High oil consumption is a common trait of the 4U-GSE engine so be prepared to top it up every 1000-2000 miles. Make sure you use the recommended synthetic oil too. Oil can leak from the camshaft blanking plate or the cam chain cover. If it's the former, a new gasket will fix it, but if it's the latter, then it's a much bigger, engine-out job to replace it. Knocking from the engine could signal an issue with either the rod bearings or crankshaft bearings, often caused by a lack of lubrication. If the car sounds like a tractor, run away because the cost to repair it can be around £2500 – and in the worst case you might need a new engine. Clutch: The OEM clutch isn't the strongest and can wear faster than expected. Check for a high bite point and that gearchanges are smooth. Upgrading to a performance clutch is worth considering: a kit from Toyota specialist Fensport is sub-£500. Rust: Have a good look at the underside of the car for corrosion. The front and rear subframes are the main culprits. If the corrosion is severe enough, it will need a new subframe to pass its MOT. Budget around £200-£300 for a second-hand unit. Body: Check for condensation in the headlights – a common issue. The GT86's paint is quite soft and prone to chips, too, so consider adding paint protection film. Inspect the car carefully for signs of accident damage and repairs, given its propensity to wag its tail. Tyres: Talking of which, check the tread of the tyres, paying close attention to the rears. Michelin Primacy tyres are standard fit. An owner's view Cat McGovern: 'I've had my GT86 for three years and I have no intention of selling it. I like its no-nonsense interior, with just a small touchscreen being the only visible tech, and the big tachometer in front of you, which makes you think you're in a true sports car. Its clutch pedal is extremely light, though, and takes a lot of getting used to, and the narrow tyres mean it's pretty tail-happy. It's no AMG, though, so you can still have lots of fun.' Also worth knowing If you want smartphone-mirroring functions like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, it's best to fit an aftermarket touchscreen to the GT86's dashboard. There are plenty of different types, with prices varying from £200-£500. The GT86 was co-developed with the Subaru BRZ and they are in many ways identical, sharing the same chassis and engine. The BRZ doesn't look exactly the same and has a different interior trim. It also has a softer suspension set-up and feels more measured to drive, while the GT86 feels livelier.
Irish Daily Mirror
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- Irish Daily Mirror
Notorious Irish prison island to host unique sporting event
Spike Island, the site of a notorious prison that remained in use until 2004, will this summer host a unique sporting event. The island will play host to one of the biggest days in the Irish motorsport calendar this year when Red Bull Drift Pursuit takes over the former military base on Saturday July 5th. The event will see 16 of the country's top drifters go head-to-head in a fierce 1v1 knockout format, with the storied prison walls as their backdrop. It will test the accuracy, control and speed of each and every driver on the track, pushing them to their absolute max. Drivers will be judged on two key criteria; course time and clipping points, with penalties for any infringements. Emerging talent from the Irish drift scene will be rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest names in motorsport in Red Bull athletes, Conor Shanahan and Josh McErlean. Both drivers will perform on the day, alongside Conor's brother Jack, delivering explosive demos that blend the rally power of Josh's M-Sport World Rally Ford Puma with the drifting precision of Conor's Toyota GT86 in a one-of-a-kind, gearbox-shredding display. The event kicks off at 6.45pm and finishes at 8.30pm, and tickets are on sale now on the Red Bull website, priced at €45 for a standing ticket and €55 for a seated ticket. Ferry transfers from Ringaskiddy or Cobh are included in the ticket, with ferries running throughout the day. Cork drifter and Red Bull athlete Conor Shanahan said: 'As a proud Corkman, it is incredible to see a drift event like this take place at such an iconic location like Spike Island. 'Some of the best drifters in Ireland will be competing, and I know Jack and I are looking forward to putting on a show.' Before the action kicks off, spectators can avail of Spike Island tours to learn more about the island's rich history as a naval base and more recently as a prison. Drift Masters Conor and Jack Shanahan will do a Q&A alongside WRC star Josh McErlean, while the drivers' paddock will also be open to spectators keen to get a closer look at the action. There are four Cork drivers among those set to compete at Red Bull Drift Pursuit - with Aidan Dennehy, Owen Magner, Trevor Healy and Alan Hynes. Follow @redbullire on Instagram and TikTok or visit for more information.
