**Toyota GT 86 Audio Systems: Marrying Speed with Sound (2012-Present)**
Toyota GT 86 Audio System (1)
With its debut in 2012, the Toyota GT 86 (also known as the Scion FR-S in the US and Subaru BRZ globally) made waves not only as a collaborative project between Toyota and Subaru but also for its pure sports car experience. A rear-wheel-drive coupe with an emphasis on driving dynamics, the GT 86 was a clear nod to car enthusiasts. Yet, beneath the roar of its engine lies the soft hum of its audio systems, which has seen its own evolution over the years. In this article, we dive deep into the audio offerings of the Toyota GT 86 across two primary model changes from 2012 to the present.
### **1. 2012-2016: Setting the Rhythmic Foundations**
For a car that wore its sports-car-heart on its sleeve, the GT 86’s early audio systems matched its personality—functional with a touch of flair.
– **Standard Audio Offerings**: The initial GT 86 models came equipped with a 6.1-inch touchscreen multimedia system. This was a pretty generous inclusion for an entry-level sports coupe. It supported AM/FM radio, a CD player, and the expected USB and auxiliary ports for external connectivity. With six speakers gracing the interior, the sound output was balanced and respectable.
– **Connectivity and Integration**: The earlier models saw Bluetooth as a standard feature, catering to the hands-free calling and music streaming needs of the modern driver. Touchscreen controls, while intuitive, were kept simple to ensure drivers spent more time enjoying the drive than fiddling with settings.
– **Navigation and Extras**: Some trims offered an optional navigation system, which brought with it voice recognition capabilities. This added layer of interaction allowed drivers to make commands without taking their hands off the steering wheel.
### **2. 2017-Present: Refining the Auditory Experience**
With the car’s mid-cycle refresh, Toyota not only tweaked the car’s aesthetics and performance but also gave due attention to the in-cabin audio experience.
– **Display and Controls**: The updated models saw an upgrade to a 7-inch touchscreen system, offering a clearer display and more responsive touch controls. This slight increase in screen size facilitated easier access to features and settings.
– **Enhanced Multimedia**: Toyota’s partnership with Pioneer bore fruit in this iteration. The sound quality saw noticeable improvement, thanks to the tuning and tech brought by Pioneer. The system maintained its six-speaker configuration, but the sound delivery was crisper and more immersive.
– **Advanced Connectivity**: Recognizing the ubiquitous nature of smartphones, Toyota ensured the new GT 86 models were Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. This seamless integration meant drivers could mirror their smartphone interface, accessing music, navigation, and other apps effortlessly.
– **Customization and Sound Settings**: The later models brought with them a degree of audio customization. Drivers could tweak equalizer settings, adjusting bass, treble, and mid-tones to suit their preferences. Additionally, the inclusion of Aha Radio meant access to thousands of stations, spanning genres from music to news.
### **The Sonic Collaboration**:
It’s essential to recognize the subtle synergy between the GT 86’s performance and its audio capabilities. The car, known for its raw driving experience, offers an audio system that doesn’t overshadow but complements. The roar of the engine, the grip of the tires on tarmac, and the ambient sounds of the world rushing by—all of these find a harmonious partner in the GT 86’s audio offerings. Whether it’s the bass-heavy thumps of electronic music or the serene notes of classical compositions, the GT 86 ensures the soundtrack to your drive is exactly as you’d like it.
The Toyota GT 86, in its journey from 2012 to the present, has showcased Toyota’s commitment to a holistic driving experience. While its engine and handling have received well-deserved praise, its audio system stands as a testament to Toyota’s attention to detail. It’s a reminder that in the grand orchestra of the open road, every note matters. As we look ahead, we can only expect Toyota to further fine-tune this blend of speed and sound, ensuring the GT 86 remains a favorite among those who drive not just with their hands and feet, but also their hearts and ears.
