The Toyota GR86, along with its siblings the Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S, has quickly become a fan favorite among drivers looking for a balanced, rear-wheel-drive sports car. While the factory suspension is competent, enthusiasts seeking sharper handling, better stance, and ultimate control for drifting or track use often turn to coilovers. In this guide, we’ll explore why GR86 coilovers are the most effective suspension upgrade, how they improve performance, and what to look for when selecting the right set for your build.
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🔧 What Are Coilovers?
Coilovers are suspension units that combine a coil spring and shock absorber into a single, adjustable package. Unlike traditional spring-and-shock setups, coilovers allow precise control over ride height, damping, and sometimes spring preload. This makes them the go-to suspension upgrade for performance builds, whether your goal is drifting, time attack, or spirited daily driving.
📐 Benefits of Coilovers for the GR86
- Ride height adjustment – lower your GR86 for improved center of gravity and aggressive stance.
- Camber and caster adjustability – when paired with camber plates, coilovers allow fine-tuned suspension geometry.
- Damping control – adjustable rebound and compression settings let you adapt for street, drift, or track driving.
- Reduced body roll – stiffer spring rates improve handling and cornering performance.
- Drifting advantage – coilovers keep the chassis predictable at angle, improving forward bite and steering response.
⚖️ GR86 Coilovers vs. Lowering Springs
Many drivers ask whether lowering springs are enough for the GR86. While springs provide a drop in ride height, they don’t offer the adjustability needed for fine-tuning suspension dynamics. Coilovers allow you to balance comfort and performance, change settings between drift and grip driving, and achieve repeatable alignment results. For serious performance applications, coilovers far outclass lowering springs.
🏁 Choosing the Best Coilovers for GR86
Not all coilovers are created equal. Here are the main factors to consider:
- Spring Rates: Stiffer springs (8k–12k front, 6k–10k rear) are common in drift setups, while slightly softer rates work better for daily and track use.
- Damping Adjustability: Look for monotube coilovers with 24–32 levels of adjustability for fine control.
- Build Quality: CNC-machined components, pillow-ball mounts, and corrosion-resistant coatings ensure durability.
- Purpose: Coilovers for daily driving prioritize comfort, while drift/track coilovers maximize rigidity and chassis feedback.
🚘 GR86 Coilovers for Different Driving Styles
Street Driving
For a daily driver GR86, coilovers should balance ride comfort with responsive handling. A moderate drop and soft-to-mid spring rates keep the car enjoyable for commuting.
Track Racing
On track, stiffer spring rates and precise damping adjustment are crucial. Coilovers allow the GR86 to maintain balance under heavy cornering, with reduced body roll and sharper turn-in.
Drifting
Drifters benefit from coilovers with high front caster, negative camber, and stiffer front springs. This setup improves steering angle, countersteer stability, and tire bite when sliding at angle. Pair coilovers with angle kits for maximum performance.
🔍 Example Drift Setup for GR86 Coilovers
Front:
- Camber: -3.0° to -4.0°
- Caster: +7°
- Toe: 1/8" out
Rear:
- Camber: -1.5°
- Toe: 1/16" in
📊 GR86 Coilovers vs. Competitors
<| Feature | Lowering Springs | Coilovers |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Height Adjustment | No |
