The Hakone Turnpike, a celebrated driving road, inspired Toyota to create a special edition of their beloved 86 sports car: the 2020 Toyota 86 Hakone Edition. Just as Ford might commemorate the Tail of the Dragon with a Mustang or Chevrolet the Pacific Coast Highway with a Camaro, this edition pays homage to driving passion.
What sets the Hakone Edition apart? Under the hood, it mirrors the GT trim, delivering 205 horsepower in the manual version and 200 horsepower with the automatic transmission. The real distinction lies in its aesthetics. This special 86 boasts exclusive Hakone Green paint, striking bronze wheels, and a refined interior featuring tan leather and black Alcantara accents.
Driving impressions reveal a familiar story for enthusiasts of the 86 platform. One editor noted, “This was my first experience driving a car like the 86, and now I see the reason people love this layout.” The Hakone Green color, combined with bronze wheels, is described as a “love it or hate it combo,” with the reviewer leaning towards admiration.
However, the engine’s performance is a point of contention. The infamous torque dip in the power curve becomes apparent precisely when more power is desired. As one review stated, “When you set off it feels like the swell of torque is going to carry you through the gears, but the car kind of falls on its face at some points.” Interestingly, the car’s display even showcases a torque and horsepower graph, visually highlighting this characteristic.
Despite the engine’s shortcomings, the chassis shines. “What you get in this car is a great chassis that is a blast to drive around town,” another editor commented, praising its engaging nature. The interior also receives accolades for its comfort and premium feel, unexpected in this class. While the rear seats are deemed largely unusable for passengers, they offer valuable extra cabin storage, complementing the surprisingly spacious trunk for daily usability.
Another perspective emphasizes the 86’s enduring appeal: “Nearly every review I see of the Toyota 86 slips the phrase ‘virtually unchanged since its introduction’ somewhere into the text… but not much needed to, because the car got so much right to begin with.” The core strengths, particularly the chassis responsiveness and communication, remain world-class. The car’s “right-sized” dimensions and excellent sightlines contribute to a heightened sense of control and precision, making it rewarding both on track and on the street.
In conclusion, the 2020 Toyota 86 Hakone Edition is a visually striking and engaging sports car. While the engine performance may not be its strongest suit, the exceptional chassis and unique styling cues inspired by the Hakone Turnpike offer a compelling package for driving enthusiasts seeking a pure and connected driving experience. If outright speed isn’t the priority, but driving pleasure and a touch of exclusivity are, the Hakone Edition warrants serious consideration.
