The automotive world is buzzing with excitement over a tantalizing possibility: Toyota might revive the beloved Altezza nameplate using the current GR86 as its foundation. For enthusiasts who remember the original Altezza’s magic, this news represents more than just another car announcement—it’s the potential return of a legend.
The Original Altezza Legacy
The Toyota Altezza debuted in Japan in 1998 as a compact sports sedan, known globally as the Lexus IS200 and IS300. This rear-wheel-drive four-door earned Japan’s Car of the Year award for 1998-1999, establishing itself as a genuine driver’s car that prioritized engagement over luxury.
Chief engineer Nobuaki Katayama, the mastermind behind the legendary AE86 Corolla, led the Altezza project. His philosophy was simple: create a sedan that rewarded skillful driving while maintaining everyday practicality. The result was a car that featured perfect 50/50 weight distribution and bridged the gap between the AE86 and what would become the modern GT86.
What Made the Altezza Special
The original Altezza offered three distinct powertrains that catered to different driving preferences. The RS200 variant featured the legendary 3S-GE BEAMS engine, producing 207 horsepower at 7,600 rpm, demanding that drivers truly work the engine to unlock its potential. This high-revving nature, combined with a precise six-speed manual transmission, created an engaging driving experience that few sedans could match.
The GR86 Foundation: Perfect Platform for Revival
Today’s GR86 delivers 228 horsepower from its 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. This lightweight coupe emphasizes driver engagement over raw power, making it an ideal foundation for a modern Altezza.
The current GR86’s philosophy aligns perfectly with the original Altezza’s mission. Both cars prioritize handling precision, steering feel, and driver connection over outright speed. A four-door GR86 would create a unique proposition in today’s market, offering rear-wheel-drive dynamics in a practical sedan package.
Market Position and Competition
A reborn Altezza would compete against the Hyundai i30 Sedan N, Subaru WRX, and Skoda Octavia RS, though none of these accomplished offerings are rear-wheel-drive. This positioning could place the new Altezza in a class of one, appealing to enthusiasts seeking both driving excitement and four-door practicality.
Technical Specifications Comparison
| Aspect | Original Altezza RS200 | Potential GR86-Based Altezza |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 3S-GE BEAMS (207 hp) | 2.4L Boxer (228 hp) |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual | 6-speed Manual/Auto |
| Drive Layout | Front-engine, RWD | Front-engine, RWD |
| Weight Distribution | 50/50 | Near 50/50 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Market Focus | Driver engagement | Driver engagement |
Why This Revival Makes Sense
Filling a Market Gap
The modern automotive landscape lacks affordable, rear-wheel-drive sedans. While luxury brands offer expensive options, enthusiasts seeking an engaging four-door experience at a reasonable price have limited choices. A GR86-based Altezza could fill this void perfectly.
Toyota’s Sports Car Renaissance
With Toyota already reviving the Celica and possibly the MR2, the notion of a new Altezza fits perfectly with the company’s renewed focus on driver-oriented vehicles. This strategy acknowledges that passionate drivers value engagement over pure performance numbers.
Building on Proven Success
The GR86 has already demonstrated that there’s a market for affordable, engaging sports cars. Extending this philosophy to a four-door configuration would allow Toyota to capture buyers who need practicality but refuse to compromise on driving enjoyment.
Challenges and Considerations
Creating a four-door version presents engineering challenges. The additional doors, structural reinforcements, and increased weight could affect the delicate balance that makes the GR86 special. However, Toyota’s experience with the original Altezza suggests they understand how to maintain driving dynamics in a sedan body.
Production volumes would likely remain limited, positioning the new Altezza as a niche offering rather than a volume seller. This approach would preserve exclusivity while keeping development costs manageable.
The Enthusiast Perspective
For many car enthusiasts, the potential Altezza revival represents hope for the future of engaging automobiles. In an era dominated by SUVs and increasingly isolated driving experiences, a modern four-door sports car built on proven GR86 foundations could reignite passion for pure driving pleasure.
The combination of Toyota’s reliability, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and practical packaging could create something truly special—a car that honors the original Altezza’s legacy while meeting modern expectations for safety, efficiency, and technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When might we see a new Altezza in production?
A: Toyota hasn’t confirmed production plans, but the concept’s positive reception suggests serious consideration for future development.
Q: Would it use the same engine as the GR86?
A: Most likely, though Toyota might tune it differently for sedan duty, potentially emphasizing torque over peak power.
Q: How much would a new Altezza cost?
A: Expect pricing similar to or slightly above the GR86, likely starting around $35,000-40,000.
