Finally, after what seems like ages, Toyota is ready to release a face-lift version of the GT86 sports car at the upcoming New York Auto Show. They also seem to have dropped the ‘GT’ from the car’s name, calling it simply the 2017 Toyota 86.

That probably has to do with the recent abolishment of the entire Scion brand. The company is apparently simplifying its range and nomenclature. We like Toyota 86 better. It is less pretentious than GT86, especially as that car is not really a GT. What it is, is a pure and wonderful sports car that is good at many things but has very little GT qualities.

At any rate, the 2017 Toyota 86 comes with fresh styling elements designed to look more aggressive, including a larger center intake that gives the car more girth, re-configured LED front headlamps and turn signals, and revised bumper, and LED taillights. The highlights of the interior include “Grandlux” material used on the instrument panel surround, new seating material with silver stitching and a sporty steering wheel with integrated audio controls.

And… no, the engine has not changed. They have done bugger all about the flat-four engine, the one thing that needed upgrading. Well, the US-version gets an extra 5 horsepower for a total of 205 hp, but that’s rather insulting, don’t you think? What difference is that going to make? You do get, however, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC). So… yay!