AUTOS CARS CUSTOM

Toyota has previewed an open-topped version of the lauded Toyota GT86 sportscar, a model that is certain to be one of the stars of next month’s Geneva motor show.

The Toyota FT-86 Open concept, so far only seen in sketch form, previews a possible future development of the award-winning GT86 sports coupe.

Toyota says it will use the Geneva concept to gauge public reaction to the idea, although the Japanese company adds that it will press ahead with engineering tests on a prototype at the same time.

As reported by Autocar last May, key Toyota engineering staff involved with the development of the rear-wheel-drive coupé are keen to capitalise on the positive reaction to the car by producing several variants.

Toyota GT86 project engineer Tetsuya Tada has previously confirmed to Autocar that a convertible version of the car is “technically feasible”.

Given the engineering work already undertaken and the likely popularity of an open-top version, particularly in California, a production convertible is almost inevitable, and could possibly be on sale as early as 2014.

Thanks to: Autocar