View Photos of the 2022 Toyota GR86 Premium Automatic

The 2022 Toyota GR86 features a 228-hp 2.4-liter flat-four that feeds the rear wheels through a standard six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2022 GR86 is available in base and Premium trim levels. The base model starts at $28,725; the Premium tacks on another $2600. The automatic is a $1500 option on both trims.

We tested a GR86 Premium with the automatic. With a few dealer-installed options, our Trueno Blue example had an as-tested price of $33,507.

There are several differences between the GR86’s two transmission options. The automatic features extra drive modes, an extra cubby on the center console, and the availability of more driver assists.

The new automatic GR86 we tested hit 60 mph in 6.1 seconds and completed the quarter-mile in 14.7 seconds at 97 mph. While those times are notably quicker than its automatic-equipped predecessor’s, they’re 0.7 second slower than its manual counterpart’s.

Regardless of transmission type, the 2022 GR86 has impressive cornering grip and braking abilities. Our test car posted 0.95 g of stick on the skidpad and stopped from 70 mph in 156 feet.

The GR86’s demerits center mostly on its interior, including its tiny back seats and the noisy 76 decibels of sound we recorded at 70 mph.

Operating the GR86’s automatic isn’t as enjoyable as the manual, but it does respond quickly to paddle-shifter inputs and will even hold gears at redline instead of upshifting on its own.

Compared with the outgoing version, the GR86’s revised flat-four engine is a revelation, thanks to its added power, more robust torque curve, and richer soundtrack.

The EPA rates the automatic GR86 at a combined 25 mpg, versus 22 mpg for the manual.