Toyota plans production shifts and model updates for GR86 and Alphard

Toyota is preparing significant updates and production changes for two of its key vehicle lines. The next generation of the GR86 sports car is expected to undergo a major mechanical shift, potentially moving from the current 2.4L boxer engine to a new 2.0L inline-four engine. Prototype vehicles featuring this new engine configuration have already been observed in racing tests at the Super Taikyu series, suggesting a focus on lightweighting and improved handling through a revised platform.

Separately, the Toyota Alphard is expected to undergo a major mid-cycle refresh around late 2027. This timing coincides with a planned production shift where manufacturing will move from the Inabe plant to the Tahara plant. This transition aligns with Toyota’s broader strategy to extend full model change cycles to approximately nine years, placing greater importance on significant mid-term updates to maintain product competitiveness and integrate new hybrid or plug-in hybrid technologies.