In 2012, the Toyota 86 took the automotive world by storm despite the presence of leather-lined, high-horsepower exotics of the time. 

It may sound exaggerated, but the 86 quickly gained the admiration of many enthusiasts. Its uncomplicated rear-wheel drive, naturally aspirated engine, and light weight, proved that the simplest of cars deliver the most driving pleasure. It showed that Toyota can build more than just hybrids, too. 

The admiration for the AE86 successor is still alive today, and that's why the future arrival of the now-Gazoo Racing-developed 86 is surrounded by same levels of excitement, like the first car did nine years ago. 

So we have the current Toyota 86 to enjoy for now. Used examples start at P1 million, while the brand-new car, whose pros and cons we'll look into, goes for P2.086 million for the manual, P2.186 mil for the automatic. 

Pros

1. Proven mechanicals

Under the long hood of the 86—and its identical twin the Subaru BRZ—is a two-liter gasoline Boxer engine that produces 197hp and 205Nm of torque.

With no turbocharger, the engine is known to require high revs so it can give its peak performance. Some still argue whether that's a good or bad trait. What's sure is that with the four cylinders laid horizontally at the bottom of the engine, center of gravity is kept low, which benefits the handling. 

Given the lifespan and badge of the 86, its Boxer mill is already known to be reliable, as long as the engine's head gasket is replaced over time. 

The 86's six speed manual and automatic are equally as bulletproof, as are the mechanicals for the rear-wheel drive (RWD) system. 

2. Fun to drive

With its lack of fancy driving assistance gadgets, the 86 is admired for its old-school approach to driving pleasure.

Some even say that the car's demanding engine would also require a skilled driver, especially when the car only weighs less than 1,300 kilograms. Add to that what RWD is capable of, as shown in Initial D. 

3. Distinctive looks

The 86 isn't particularly known to be a looker, although its styling will stand out in the sea of crossovers today. And when the coupe is finished in Pure Red, some could be fooled into thinking that the car hails from Maranello, Italy. 

Lapis blue pearl and bright blue, are among the 86's louder color options, while the low-key ones include gray metallic, crystal black silica, ice silver metallic, and pearl white for an additional P15,000. 

Cons

1.  Unrefined cabin

To keep weight and possibly manufacturing costs at a minimum, the 86 had to make do with less cabin insulation. Although not quite a problem for the car's intended market, the engine, wind, and road noise that permeate into the cabin are said to be tiresome on longer journeys. 

 2. Limited rear space

It may be touted as a two-plus-two, but with a sloping roof line and the center tunnel for the RWD, rear cabin space is limited. The 86's RWD mechanicals also intrude into the trunk space.

Clearly, this car puts driving pleasure above all else, and that's not an altogether bad thing.

Photos from Toyota 

Also read:

Toyota 86: Get to know the difference between variants

Own a Toyota 86 Hakone Edition and Make Everyone 'Green with Envy'