Amid the automotive industry’s ongoing struggles, Toyota has released a couple of new models in the past two years. One is the all-electric bZ4X, and the other is the Toyota GR86. You might recognize the latter as an upgraded 86, which debuted for the 2013 model year.

The 2023 Toyota GR86 is a sports coupe with sleek styling, a lightweight body, and several racing enhancements. It also boasts a few commonplace convenience features, but is Apple CarPlay on the list?

Overview of the 2023 Toyota GR86

The Toyota GR86 typically comes in two variations: the standard GR86 and the upscale Premium trim. Both pack a 2.4-liter engine harnessing 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. You can also get a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management.

The 2023 GR86 also has a multi-link rear suspension and a limited-slip differential, promising exciting performance on the track. Toyota estimates a 0-to-60-mph time of 6.1 seconds with the automatic suspension. However, Car and Driver testers hit that speed in only 5.4 seconds.

They also praise the Toyota GR86 for its well-rounded suspension, precise cornering, and satisfying engine note. The standard trim rides on 17-inch wheels, but the Premium gets 18-inchers. This model also wears a stylish rear spoiler and leather-trimmed sports seats with two heated settings.

The standard model starts at $27,900, and the Premium retails for $30,500. This year, enthusiasts can purchase the limited 10th Anniversary Special Edition. 

According to Toyota, this model comes with an exclusive black-tipped spoiler and exhaust tips, plus an entirely new performance exhaust. It’s also the only Toyota GR86 with an orange paint job. Fewer than 900 units will see production.

Does the 2023 Toyota GR86 have Apple CarPlay?

Like most of the auto giant’s latest models, the 2023 Toyota GR86 comes standard with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Smartphone integration works like a more advanced version of Bluetooth.

You can mirror your phone’s screen to the GR86’s infotainment display, allowing you to take advantage of apps. For example, you can use Google Maps or Spotify without looking down at your phone. In 2023, you’ll also be able to operate Apple CarPlay from the gauge cluster.

That means you can also configure apps from this screen and the center touchscreen. You can also view your car’s fuel supply and speed within CarPlay. The updated version of CarPlay would also reportedly display the current weather and offer climate control configurations.

Other notable tech features in the 2023 model

The latest version of Apple CarPlay is still several months away, but the Toyota GR86 abounds with plenty of great tech features. On the performance side, it has an aerodynamic bumper with a front splitter. 

The oil heat exchanger keeps the engine optimally cool during peak performance maneuvers. And the optional GR exhaust system swaps out standard steel for stainless steel, reducing the GR86’s curb weight for better agility.

The Toyota GR86’s audio system can have up to eight speakers, and both models come with an 8.0-inch touchscreen and a 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster. Standard safety features are limited to automatic reverse braking and rear parking sensors. But models with the automatic transmission provide the full Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning.