What's the news?

Toyota will show the FT-86 Open concept at the Geneva Motor Show. The plan is to gauge public reaction with a view to possibly putting a convertible version of the GT86 into production. A number of engineering issues also need to be fully addressed before the concept is signed off - ensuring that weight, balance, rigidity and aerodynamics aren't adversely affected.

Exterior

Dimensionally, the FT-86 matches its hard-top cousin with the only visual change being the removal of the fixed, metal roof. The show car's colour scheme was designed at Toyota Boshoku Milan Design with a bright white body and navy blue convertible roof. The roof itself is multi-layered with a glass rear screen.

Interior

Continuing this theme, the interior is upholstered in white leather over navy blue backing with extra colour coming from golden yellow stitching and carpets. The coupé's 2+2 seating is retained and Toyota promises that the folding roof only has a small impact on the luggage space available.

Mechanicals

Mechanically the FT-86 shares its hardware with the GT86 including the 2.0-litre 'boxer' engine, steering and brakes, strut front and wishbone rear suspension. One of the goals for the engineers is for the convertible to match the 1,275kg weight of the coupé, which should mean similar acceleration and fuel economy figures for both.

Anything else?

Toyota says the GT86 was designed with a view to developing a convertible, which is one of the reasons why the coupé included features like frameless door windows.