Toyota’s FT-86 II concept just unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show provides the final pieces in the jigsaw which has been the prolonged development of the Japanese giant’s all-new sports car.
It now seems certain that production will commence in time for a European launch in 2012.
The compact rear-wheel-drive sports car employs a light-weight ‘Boxer’ engine driving through a six-speed manual transmission.
Toyota says the latest FT-86 II model displayed in Geneva features light weight, a low center of gravity and the hallmark long, low bonnet and wedge shape with Formula One-inspired aerodynamics.
A product of Toyota’s European Design Development center, the latest version of the FT-86 presents a stronger, bolder look while maintaining its compact dimensions (4,235mm long, 1,795mm wide, 1,270mm high and a relatively long wheelbase of 2,570mm).
Throughout its development, Toyota has consistently compared the FT-86 with its popular Celica, MR2 and Supra models so it will be interesting to see how the newcomer is positioned and priced when it goes on sale.
