Report: Toyota chooses alternative Toyota FT-86 design (by Calty studio)!

[Nemesis]

As reported on FT86club BLOG.

Publication Holiday Autos is reporting that the original FT-86 design that we've seen at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show and the 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon (designed by Toyota's Europe Design Development ED²) has been passed up by Toyota in favor of the alternative design by Toyota's North American design studio (Calty Design Research). Calty's FT-86 version (which we've yet to see in person except for the sketch below) has been picked over the ED² design and another design by Toyota's Japanese design team (Toyota Technical Center).

Reportedly, the ED² design was rejected November of last year, the month following the original debut of the FT-86 at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show. The selection then came down to the designs by Calty and Toyota Technical Center, with Calty's design winning out.

It's being reported that the basic elements of the FT-86 in its new form are all ready, with the exception of a few minor items which will be finalized in March. The new Calty designed FT-86 will have less aggressively carved and curved surfaces, will feature increased overhangs (boo!), and have a higher front fascia (in all likelihood to meet current pedestrian safety requirements. Wheelbase and physical dimensions have not changed. As for the Subaru version of the FT-86, it will not differ from the Toyota version as much as previously reported. Expect only badge and option differences.

We're not sure what to make of this rumor yet as we absolutely adore the FT-86 design that we have all seen in the two Tokyo car shows. The FT-86 design has been an absolute hit and it would take another knockout design to match its sharp, unique, and emotional design. However, do keep in mind that Calty was the studio responsible for the stunning FT-HS concept, so we will reserve judgment for the new FT-86 design (if there indeed is one) until we see it! There may be hope yet!

Possible new Calty designed FT-86:

[S2KtoFT86]

Eww, a higher profile with increased overhang. Just eww. Granted, we'll need to see how it officially comes out but damn, the concept was perfect. No need to change it.

[Lauren]

Not over the moon about that, but it's still a long way from being finalised as that pic demonstrates.

Wait and see I think.

[YourFearlessLeader]

Cant say im out, just very curious to how its going to look... I think im still in FTW!

[e10rice]

Man if its as ugly as the picture im gonna pass for something else.

[VenomRush]

i prefer sharp edges over curved ones for an aggressive look.. but curves make a car look sexy... i have mixed feelings about this.. the original look already grew on me

[Fox]

I was going to write in another thread that i think the low ft86 nose would not make it into production -> because of pedestrian safety the noses of cars went higher and higher the last years. Hate that

We will have to wait...

[FT-HS]

That's disappointing, I thought the design by Toyota Europe Design Development was already 'production ready' but I guess not! Anyhow I can't wait for Calty's design! Especially since they were responsible for the design of the FT-HS (which kind of gave spawn to the FT-86 in a way) as well as others.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calty_Design_Research

As for the picture, I don't think we need to get all hyped and ready to leave because we don't like the lines. If you think about, we don't even know if that picture was EVEN made by Calty or anyone from Toyota at all! If could be just a fan boy/girl who's good at Photoshopping! So please don't fight over a car that hasn't even been made for production yet (minus the FT-86 concept and G-sport concept that was made).

[Midship Runabout]

the "carbon fiber" under the head lights make the car look like a panda bear

[Nemesis]

to be honest, the hood and front end just look too much like my wife's 2001 prius....great car, but not a head turner.....

[Axel]

say it ain't so!!!

that overhang would be the biggest turn-off to me compared to the Tokyo concept.

[OldSkoolToys]

Originally Posted by Axel

say it ain't so!!!

Your drug is a heartbreaker?

Edit: Aww, come on hachiroku, I totally had a valid point going on that one post.

[85GTSCoupe]

Originally Posted by Nemesis

to be honest, the hood and front end just look too much like my wife's 2001 prius....great car, but not a head turner.....

Exact same thing I thought... BLECH... I'm leaning more and more toward just buying an STi...

[cyde01]

Holiday Auto is a Japanese car mag that, much like Best Car Magazine, often reports made up rumors. However, these mags do get their scoops right every once in a while. i personally am not thrilled about the idea and hope they release it as close to the concept as possible.

ps: calty is also the studio that designed the last gen celica. their designs are hit and miss at best.