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We're still waiting to hear whether there'll be a convertible version of the giant-killing Toyota 86 rear-wheel drive sports coupe, but we're hearing more every week about a sedan variant -- which is music to the ears of those who lust after the 2+2 86 but have pressing family obligations that make it impractical.
Following reports a couple of weeks ago that Toyota was considering a four-door, come further ones overnight suggesting it has been given the green light for production.
Citing insider sources, UK's Auto Express says the sedan will be built on the 86 platform, but with a 10cm extension of the wheelbase and feature 'keen look' grille styling that draws on the design of samurai swords.
The sedan will be powered by the 86's 147kW/205Nm 2.0-litre Subaru-sourced boxer engine and likely be available with the same transmission choices of a six-speed manual or six-speed sports automatic. However there will also be a hybrid version, developing between 185-200kW and offering 10-15 per cent improvement on fuel economy over the petrol version.
As previously reported, the hybrid could draw on a detuned version of the petrol engine plus electic motor system from the Yaris Hybrid-R Concept, and capture and store brake energy with a Formula One style kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) for short spurts of extra power.
It's suggested the Toyota 86 sedan will be launched around the end of 2015, with prices starting in the equivalent of $35,000 overseas. With Toyota's focus on keeping the 86 affordable here -- despite its hero desirability -- that could suggest a similar starting point in the Australian market.
This reporter is on Twitter: @KarlaPincott
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