Toyota GR86 Tuning Guide
Toyota GR86 Tuning Guide
The Toyota GR86 with the 2.4 FA24 engine is an exciting car for those who enjoy driving dynamics and lightweight performance. As a naturally aspirated vehicle, tuning your GR86 can be a fun and rewarding way to enhance its performance, but it's important to understand the limitations and considerations when tuning a car like this.
In this tuning guide, we’ll walk through popular modifications for the GR86, keeping in mind that as a naturally aspirated car, performance gains will be more modest compared to turbocharged or supercharged vehicles. However, with the right modifications, you can still improve the driving experience, handling, and overall look of your car.
Looking to browse GR86 parts? Check them out here
Understanding Naturally Aspirated Performance
The GR86's 2.4-litre FA24 engine is naturally aspirated, meaning it doesn’t rely on forced induction (like turbocharging or supercharging) to increase power. As a result, power gains from tuning will generally be more limited compared to a turbo or supercharged setup. You can expect modest improvements in power and responsiveness, with the main benefits being better throttle response, a more aggressive sound, and improved handling.
Popular Naturally Aspirated Modifications
If you're looking to get the most out of your GR86 without going down the path of forced induction, there are several effective and popular modifications to consider.
1. Air Filters and Induction Kits
One of the easiest and most cost-effective modifications is upgrading the air intake system. A high-flow air filter or an induction kit allows more air to enter the engine, which can improve throttle response and slightly increase power. Popular choices include cold air intakes and short ram intakes, which work well with the GR86’s engine to improve intake flow and provide a more aggressive intake sound.
JXL Performance recommends the K&N Performance Intake System for GR86
2. Manifolds and Headers
Upgrading the exhaust manifold or headers can significantly improve exhaust flow and engine efficiency. A performance manifold or header replaces the factory parts, which are often restrictive. This modification helps the engine breathe more easily, improving power and torque, especially in the higher RPM range. These are particularly effective when paired with a performance exhaust system.
JXL Performance recommends Cobra Sport Exhaust UEL 4-1 Manifold Header Performance Exhaust
3. Cat-back or GPF-back Exhaust
A cat-back or GPF-back (Gasoline Particulate Filter-back) exhaust system is another popular upgrade for the GR86. It replaces the stock exhaust from the catalytic converter to the rear of the car, improving exhaust flow and giving the car a more aggressive exhaust note. A high-quality exhaust can free up some additional horsepower and provide a noticeable sound improvement without modifying the engine too much.
4. Suspension Upgrades
While performance gains from suspension modifications don’t directly affect power, they can have a significant impact on handling and driving experience. Upgrading to a set of coilovers or performance springs can lower the car’s ride height and improve cornering stability. Adjustable dampers allow you to fine-tune your suspension to suit your driving style, whether that’s more comfortable road use or track-day performance.
Check out our wide range of suspension products for your GR86 here
5. Styling and Aerodynamics
Styling modifications can also enhance your GR86’s appearance and performance. While they don’t increase horsepower, certain aesthetic upgrades can improve aerodynamics and handling. For example, adding a front splitter, side skirts, or a rear diffuser can reduce drag and increase downforce, which is especially useful during high-speed driving. Lightweight alloy wheels are another good option, reducing the unsprung weight and improving overall handling.
Consider checking out our range of exterior styling products here
6. ECU Remapping or Tuning
A remap or custom ECU tune is one of the more effective ways to get a bit more out of your naturally aspirated engine. It adjusts the air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, and other parameters to optimise the engine's performance. This is especially beneficial if you've already added other performance modifications like an upgraded exhaust or intake. A proper tune can help maximise the gains from these modifications and improve overall throttle response.
Forced Induction Options
For those seeking more significant performance gains, adding forced induction like a turbocharger or supercharger is a viable option. However, it’s worth noting that this comes with a higher price tag. Forced induction can significantly increase horsepower and torque, but it also involves more extensive modifications to the engine and cooling systems. You’ll also need to upgrade the fuel system, transmission, and brakes to handle the extra power.
While forced induction is an option for the GR86, it’s not the most common route due to the costs and complexity involved. Many owners prefer to keep their GR86 naturally aspirated, enjoying the balanced handling and lightweight nature of the car.
Final Thoughts
Tuning your Toyota GR86 with the 2.4 FA24 engine can be an enjoyable and rewarding process. While the performance gains from naturally aspirated modifications are more limited than those from forced induction, there are still plenty of ways to improve throttle response, handling, and the overall driving experience.
If you're after modest performance improvements, start with basic modifications like a high-flow air filter, upgraded exhaust, or suspension changes. If you're looking for something more, consider tuning the ECU or upgrading the manifold or headers. And, if you're feeling adventurous and have the budget for it, forced induction is an option to take your GR86 to the next level.
Whatever your tuning goals are, remember to keep a balance between performance and reliability, and always consult with professionals to ensure your modifications are done properly. The GR86 is a fantastic car, and with the right upgrades, it can become an even more exhilarating driving experience.