NEW CAR ROAD TEST: TOYOTA GT86

Toyota says its engaging GT86 coupe has been ‘fundamentally revised’ with sharper dynamics and a smarter interior.

As before, this remains a simple, rear-wheel drive package designed to give the person behind the wheel a good time.

Differences with this improved model include revised suspension that improves corner turn-in and further enhances the original version’s keenness of response, agility and its ability to adjust the cornering attitude as much with the throttle as the helm.

The 2.0-litre Boxer engine beneath the bonnet remains, as does the relatively light 1,180kg kerb weight which might lead you to expect the GT86 to make rather more of its 197bhp and 151lb/ft of torque than the estimated headline performance stats of 140mph and 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds suggest.

But this car isn’t just about raw power. Its lean kerb weight plays just as big a role in the way it handles and rides.

There’s now no stripped-out entry-level variant, so prices start up at around £26,000 for the standard model.

The GT86 is reasonably economical. Yes, we know that the published figures are usually a bit of a farce that you’ll never get near, but Toyota quotes 36.2mpg on the combined cycle and every person we know who’s run one has reported averages of over 30mpg.

So, what we have here is something to savour; one of those rare machines that involves you so much that you don’t need to be travelling at three figure speeds to have fantastic fun.

Get one and you won’t regret it.