Toyota GR86 vs Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang returns for a final tour as its primary rivals head to retirement. This seventh-generation pony car is based on its predecessor but receives numerous upgrades that significantly improve its interior and technology. For fun on a budget, it's difficult to beat a Mustang, and this newest version continues the tradition with a healthy dose of nostalgia.

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There aren’t too many inexpensive sports cars available these days. Sure, you can always head to the Porsche dealership and spend six figures to get a car with so much power it really belongs on a race track, but who has that kind of money? For the rest of us, there is the 2025 Toyota GR86. This affordable sports car offers up plenty of thrills without breaking the bank and it’s just as comfortable on a twisty mountain road as it is running weekend errands.

Now in its second generation, the 2025 GR86 gets a few performance upgrades as well as a limited-production Hakone Edition, playing homage to the Hakone Turnpike in Japan, a road popular with driving enthusiasts. While the Hakone Edition served as our tester for this review, there is still plenty of fun to be had with the base and Premium trims.

Verdict: The 2025 Toyota GR86 is a nimble little sports car, perfect for those who want cheap thrills, good looks and a manual transmission option.