Toyota updated the GR 86 in Japan without touching the engine. A half-millimeter shifter change targets smoother manual downshifts. A new triple-camera driver-assist system promises to boost safety. Just like we’ve seen with the GR Yaris and GR Corolla, Toyota is committed to keeping its performance models feeling fresh, frequently rolling out updates to make them better. It’s done this once again, this time with the GR 86 in Japan. It gets all the same upgrades as the 2027 model launched recently in the US. While the powertrain remains unchanged, meaning there’s still a naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder, Toyota says it’s improved the driving dynamics. To do so, it’s tweaked the throttle control settings to boost responsiveness and improve linearity from pedal application to acceleration. Similarly, changes have been made to the electric power steering to improve stability during high-speed cornering and over rough surfaces. Read: Toyota’s GR86 Yuzu Edition Is A Scion Throwback The gate of six-speed manual models has also been changed. The chamfer, or the tapered edge between fourth and fifth gear, has been broadened by 0.5 mm (0.019 inches) to improve downshifting. Fresh Looks Several tweaks have also been made to the interior of the GR 86 in RZ trim. For example, several switches now include a cast iron black finish, and models equipped with the available black and red color theme now include more areas of red. Obviously that’s not a big change, but it should be appreciated by the enthusiasts buying this car. Toyota has also re-introduced Solid Gray, a paint finish that was previously offered on the first-generation 86 for roughly six months back in 2017. Rounding out the updates made is a new triple-camera setup for the EyeSight driver-assist system, rather than a two-camera system. It now includes an ultra-wide-angle monocular camera to boost the field of view. Those interested in going club racing with the GR 86 Cup Car Basic can also now order that model with the six-speed automatic transmission, rather than just the manual. Japanese deliveries of the updated GR 86 kick off in December. The basic RC model with steelies and a six-speed manual opens at 2,936,000 yen ($18,600), while the SZ runs 3,195,000 yen ($20,200) with the manual and 3,392,000 yen ($21,500) with the auto. The RZ sits at the top, starting at 3,518,000 yen ($22,300) with the stick and 3,616,000 yen ($22,900) with the auto. American buyers pay considerably more, with the 2027 GR86 starting at $31,500 before delivery.