What's the news?

Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) has launched a race version of the GT86. Available from £30,500 (excluding VAT) the TMG GT86 CS-V3 has already proved itself at the daunting Nürburgring 24 Hours and has been designed specifically for privateers.

Exterior

Look past the racing decals and the V3 is largely as you would expect a GT86 to be. This is due to the restrictions of the V3 class of the VLN series for which it has been designed and homologated. Bar the bonnet pins and towing eye the only big changes are 17-inch lightweight wheels shod in racing slicks.

Interior

The GT86's low-slung driving position has been retained, but instead of the usual sport seat occupants will be strapped into an OMP bucket seat with a six-point safety harness. Other safety features include an FIA-approved roll cage and an electronic fire extinguisher.

Mechanicals

The V3 features the same 200hp boxer engine as its road-going counterpart, but the chassis has been stiffened and 'weight optimised' for the track. A racing exhaust system has been fitted as too have uprated suspension and brakes, but other than that it is as you were for the GT86 - all part of TMG's plan for a low-cost, easy to maintain racer.

Anything else?

As the name would suggest the TMG GT86 CS-V3 has been developed specifically for the V3 class of the Nürburgring-based VLN series with homologation from the Deutsche Motor Sport Bund meaning it can be raced in many other production-based championships. Orders are now being taken with delivery times depending on demand. Development of racing cars based on the GT86 continues at TMG, with a GT86 Cup car under consideration.