The pop-up headlights, although polarized, undoubtedly give the Toyota 86 an effective visual effect.
With the introduction of the 86 (known as the Scion FR-S in the U.S.) in 2012, Toyota resurrected the legendary AE86 in more than just a name.
That’s because, between its lightweight chassis and powerful rear-wheel drivetrain, the car also resurrects the spirit of its predecessor with sharp handling and overall glide.
With the launch of the follow-up GR86, Toyota has simply reiterated its commitment to paying homage to the iconic Corolla by making “86” part of the global name.
The front end is a surprisingly convincing con, especially when you consider the extent of modifications required. – Image source: Result Japan
The most direct connection, however, is to the aftermarket, where a company called Result Japan has taken this common lineage to the next level with a redesign that’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen.
Radwood-level visual overhaul
It’s called “Neo86,” which is a fitting name for a body kit designed to give Toyota’s budget 86 sports car a retro aesthetic reminiscent of the AE86. Initial D.
The black and white paint of Toyota AE86 Trueno is very easy to identify. – Image source: Toyota
Up front, you’ll find the most striking aspects of the transformation. In addition to ditching the stock headlights for a pair of typical ’80s pop-ups, Result Japan also added a sharper hood and a more angular front bumper.
Combined with revised fenders and some repositioned turn signals and fog lights, it makes for an efficient overhaul. Whether or not this design “works” for you (the editors at Automobile magazine haven’t decided yet), you can’t deny that it’s a convincing hoax from the front.
The side profile creates the most visually challenging angle, as you can see the influence of the AE86 and GR86. – Image source: Result Japan
Of course, this illusion is revealed when you move to the rear of the car – it turns out the Japanese didn’t try to emulate the AE86’s hatchback roofline, and the taillights are very clearly from a modern 86, rather than something from the pop-up headlight days.
Still, thanks to details like the oversized decklid spoiler, boxy rear bumper, fender flares, two-tone livery, and Watanabe wheels, it’s not as jarring as a visual transformation of this magnitude would normally seem. I’m not usually a fan of “backdating”, but some of Neo86’s features actually work.
It turns out Japan didn’t try to emulate the roofline, which is probably for the best on a car like the more curvaceous GR86. – Image source: Toyota
This isn’t the company’s first rodeo
This isn’t Result Japan’s first rodeo, by any means. In fact, far from it.
The company offers aftermarket body kits for everything from light cars like the Honda S660 to hatchbacks like the GR Corolla and even hybrids like the Prius.
The rear end ties this theme together with LED taillights, a large decklid spoiler and an extended bumper. – Image source: Result Japan
Overall, Result Japan’s transformation is visually challenging, whether it’s through the addition of headlight lens covers, a flared grille profile, wide fenders or oversized rear fenders.
In other words, this kit isn’t doing anything subtle, so compared to some other kits on the market, this Neo86 kit is a refreshingly restrained choice.
Even Toyota has given the GR86 a Trueno special edition, although its visual impact is obviously far less transformative. – Image source: Toyota
Pricing and availability
According to Result Japan, the Neo86 body kit will be available for pre-order at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon on January 9.
While availability and pricing haven’t been announced yet, the company did advertise shipping to countries outside of Japan. Also, to put some perspective in perspective, Result Japan’s GR 86 widebody kit costs 638,000 yen (approximately $4,000 USD).
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