Watch Toyota get back to rallying with the GT86 CS-R3 (video)

Rallying has always been about four wheel drive vehicles in the 21^st century. Not anymore. Toyota Motorsports GmbH (Germany) is ecstatic to announce that their recently developed GT86 CS-R3 has successfully become the first new rear wheel drive rally car to be granted the FIA homologation in the 21^st century. The car will be eligible to run all R3 category rally championship events including the WRC.

By bringing rear-wheel-drive back to the stages, the CS-R3 is a uniquely exciting car for drivers and fans which draws on Toyota Motorsport Germany's illustrious rally heritage. The TMG-run TOYOTA Team Europe enjoyed its first successes in the 1980s with the rear-wheel drive Celica Twincam Turbo, a multiple Safari Rally winner.

Significant changes were made to the naturally aspirated 2 liter boxer motor by Toyota's engineers, mainly to the internals and software, resulting in a maximum power of 232 hp and 235 Nm of torque. A six speed sequential transmission with a short final drive ideal for rallying has been sourced from the transmission specialists Drenth along with a tougher limited slip differential and racing lightweight clutch and flywheel assembly. Plentiful dead body weight has been shaved, three ways adjustable suspension and 330mm (front)/ 295mm (rear) brakes upgraded and a reinforced FIA homologated roll cage added for safety.  

The reaction of fans and drivers has been very satisfying for Toyota Germany; it's clear there is a huge support for Toyota in rallying and many still remember the pure spectacle of a rear-wheel-drive car at full throttle in the dirt.