This article is one of our DS Does Japan series from our recent trip to the land of the rising sun, courtesy of Toyota Australia. Click here for the whole set!
After Tokyo Auto Salon, we headed deeper into Chiba prefecture to the Netz Chiba dealer, one of 4 chains that sell all Toyotas in Japan (the others being Toyota, Toyopet and Corolla. Not confusing at all, is it). Due to the popularity of the 86, Netz have approximately 50 special dealers with an Area 86 section, where they supply and fit accessories and aftermarket parts, perform servicing, show special models and modified cars and generally present a more exciting experience. This is possible because in Japan there is much less of an issue with people modifying their vehicles, which allows dealers to really support the owners’ passion without being worried by silly legal issues.
We were there to check out some special edition Toyota 86 concepts, fitted with a combo of bits that are currently available for purchase in Japan and some one-off bespoke parts. Down the line there were murmurs that some of this may be offered as potential factory accessories but time will tell whether they reach our shores.
Extensively modified 86.. Gram Lights wheels, Project Mu brakes..
Big CF rear diffuser, exhaust…
Okuyama rollcage, Carbing 3-point strut brace..
Defi gauges, and a bunch of interior dress up bits as well.
This one features a convertible roof, all done to an extremely high standard. Would easily pass for factory.
Very nice rollcage too!
Now we come to 2 factory prototypes with J-TACS parts. The first is Factory Tune 002. What do you guys think of these front and rear bumpers?
Am loving these quilted seats!
Mmm HREs.
Aftermarket gauges. I think I prefer these over stock!
The J-TACS guys dispensed with rear view mirrors and installed cameras in the fender vent detail. There are little screens just inside each A-pillar.
I suddenly started liking the 86 a bit more…
Especially when I was offered a ride in a supercharged one just around the block. No traction in first! So much fun.
Sard exhaust on this red 86, from headers back.
Even the carpark held a few gems like this black-on-black 86 on Rays wheels.
