Behind the distinctly Japanese styling lies a fresh modular rear-wheel drive architecture that could spawn more variants driving what enthusiasts often tag the ‘correct’ wheels.

Better, a six-speed manual transmission is standard, though Toyota isn’t actually saying what engine powers the S-FR that will debut at the Tokyo motor show next month.

Either way, the 86 could soon have a smaller sibling. At 3.9 metres long it stops 242mm shorter than the current production Toyota coupe, while its 1.695m width makes it 85mm narrower.

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“Pitched as an entry-level model, the new concept emphasizes responsiveness, and aims to make a whole new generation fall in love with driving,” the company statement continues, which sounds a) fantastic; and b) like Toyota chief and driving enthusiast Akio Toyoda hasn’t lied when he said he wants the brand to offer more fun-to-drive cars.

“The concept’s compact body is incredibly light, yet offers a smooth driving style,” the statement continues.

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“Benefiting from the unique advantages of a lightweight sports car, the concept offers smooth, responsive and direct handling that gives a real sense of communication between car and driver – one key benefit of the FR (front engine/rear drive) format.”

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Sounds like a Mazda MX-5 fanbase, then, and with the new model tinier than an 86 and weighing a smidge over 1000kg, it appears the cutesy S-FR could target that Japanese rival with even cheaper pricing.

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