For Toyota GR86 owners aiming to boost performance, choosing the best turbo kit involves balancing power gains, compatibility, and value. The FAPO PS+ Coilovers stands out as the top overall choice, thanks to its adjustable damping and proven track record. The Toyota GR86 OEM Turbo Kit offers a seamless factory-like fit for those prioritizing reliability, while the Universal Turbo Kit provides flexibility for custom setups. However, buyers face tradeoffs between cost, ease of installation, and long-term durability. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to find the ideal turbo kit for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked turbo kits excel in compatibility and ease of installation for the GR86, but often come at a premium price.
- Universal options offer customization potential but require more effort to install and tune properly.
- Adjustable coilover-based turbo kits, like the FAPO PS+, provide better tuning flexibility for performance enthusiasts.
- Many kits share similar core components, but differences in build quality and included hardware impact long-term reliability.
- Cost-effective kits tend to compromise on features or durability, making them better suited for casual upgrades.
More Details on Our Top Picks
9PCS Car Cleaning Kit, No-Scratch Auto Detailing Tools Set with Wash Mitt, Large Sponge, Wheel Brush, Wax Applicator Pads and Microfiber Towels for Car Interior and Exterior Care (Gray)
This all-in-one cleaning kit excels at providing a gentle yet effective clean, thanks to its combination of microfiber and sponge, which helps distribute pressure evenly and prevents scratches. Its ergonomic wash mitt is comfortable for full vehicle cleaning, making it a great choice for detailers who want a comprehensive set. Compared with products like the 24 PCS Car Interior LED Lights Kit, this kit focuses on physical cleaning rather than aesthetics, but it trades off for portability and full coverage. The inclusion of a dual-sided tire brush boosts efficiency in wheels and tires, a feature absent in smaller kits. However, the set could benefit from individual packaging for the tools to prevent loss or damage. This pick makes the most sense for detail-conscious car owners who want a versatile, all-encompassing cleaning solution without complicated setup.
Pros:- Complete set for interior and exterior cleaning needs
- Gentle yet effective microfiber and sponge combination
- Ergonomic design for comfortable use
Cons:- No individual tool packaging, risking loss or damage
- Lacks specialized cleaning agents or detail sprays
Best for: DIY car enthusiasts who prioritize thorough cleaning and surface protection across both interior and exterior surfaces.
Not ideal for: Owners seeking only interior cosmetic upgrades or simple maintenance, as this kit is more comprehensive than necessary.
- Number of tools included:9 pieces
- Material:Microfiber, Sponge
- Included brushes:Wheel Brush
- Additional accessories:Wax Applicator Pads, Microfiber Towels
- Color:Gray
- Design features:Ergonomic, No-Scratch
Bottom line: This kit is perfect for detail-focused owners who want a full cleaning arsenal in one package.
This rhinestone-studded start button cover offers a bold visual upgrade, standing out with its sparkling rhinestones that reflect light vividly. Compared to the Car Double DIN Installation Kit, which focuses on functional upgrades, this accessory emphasizes interior style and personalization. It’s made from durable zinc alloy, providing scratch and corrosion resistance, but its main drawback is the potential for rhinestones to come loose over time with heavy use. The adhesive installation is straightforward, making it suitable for owners who want quick aesthetic upgrades without mechanical work. However, its limited size compatibility (1.1 inches diameter) means it won’t fit all models. This pick is ideal for owners who want to add a touch of luxury and glamour to their cabin but are less concerned with functional modifications.
Pros:- Highly decorative with sparkling rhinestones
- Made from high-hardness zinc alloy for durability
- Simple adhesive installation
Cons:- Potential for rhinestones to loosen over time
- Limited size compatibility for some models
Best for: Owners looking to add a stylish, eye-catching detail to their vehicle’s interior, especially those who enjoy customizing small accessories.
Not ideal for: Drivers seeking functional or performance upgrades, as this item provides no mechanical benefits and may fall off over time.
- Material:Zinc alloy
- Size:1.1 inches diameter
- Installation:Adhesive backing
- Finish:Rhinestone inlay
- Color:White
- Durability:Scratch-resistant, corrosion-resistant
Bottom line: This decorative start button ring is best for owners who want to enhance interior style with minimal effort.
100 PCS Car Dashboard Metal Trim Clips, High Strength Stable Retention Car Body Fastener, Spring Panel Retainer Moulding Clip Kit, Universal for Most Cars, SUVs, Trucks (Multicolored)
This set of 100 metal trim clips offers reliable, high-strength fastening for various interior panels, surpassing the typical plastic clips in durability and retention force. It’s comparable to the 2PCS Car Double DIN Installation Kit in terms of durability, but focuses on fixing interior trim rather than mounting electronics. The metal construction minimizes breakage and deformation, making it suitable for owners who perform frequent repairs or replacements. Its universal fit makes it versatile across many vehicle types. The downside is that the large quantity may be excessive for casual users and could lead to clutter if not organized properly. This kit is best suited for repair shops or DIYers who need a comprehensive, long-lasting fastener solution for interior panel maintenance.
Pros:- High-strength metal construction
- Universal fit for most vehicles
- Stable retention with spring design
Cons:- Large quantity may be more than needed for small repairs
- No specific organization included for storage
Best for: Professional or DIY vehicle owners who need durable, reliable clips for interior trim and body panels.
Not ideal for: Owners who only need a few clips or are looking for a quick fix, as the high quantity may be unnecessary and storage could be a challenge.
- Material:Metal
- Number of clips:100 pieces
- Color:Multicolored
- Design:Spring retention
- Compatibility:Universal
- Use case:Interior trim, body fastening
Bottom line: This extensive clip kit is ideal for those requiring durable, reliable fastening solutions for multiple interior and body panels.
24 PCS Car Interior LED Lights Kit 194 T10 DE3175 578 31mm 41mm LED Bulbs Interior Replacement Bulbs for Car Map License Plate Door Side Marker Dome Light (Red)
This LED bulb kit provides bright, energy-efficient lighting with a vivid red hue, making it a standout upgrade over standard incandescent interior lights. The use of high-quality 2835 chips ensures longevity, with a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, and the 360-degree illumination offers excellent coverage. Compared to the 9PCS Car Cleaning Kit, which is about cleaning, this set focuses on aesthetics and visibility inside your vehicle. The plug-and-play design simplifies installation, but the color intensity is very pronounced, which might not appeal to owners seeking subtle ambiance. The bulbs fit a wide range of sockets, but users should verify sizes beforehand. This kit is perfect for owners who want a quick, noticeable interior makeover with minimal effort.
Pros:- Bright, high-efficiency LED chips
- Long lifespan of up to 50,000 hours
- Easy plug-and-play installation
Cons:- Very bright and intense color may be overwhelming
- Limited to certain socket sizes; verify compatibility
Best for: Owners who want to enhance interior visibility and style with vibrant, long-lasting LED lighting.
Not ideal for: Those preferring subtle or warm interior lighting, as these are very bright and intensely colored.
- Number of bulbs:24 pieces
- Bulb types:T10, DE3175, 578
- Color temperature:6000 K (Red)
- Lumens:600 lumens per bulb
- Lifespan:50,000 hours
- Material:Aviation aluminum
- Beam angle:360°
Bottom line: This LED lighting kit is best for owners eager to make a bold interior style statement with reliable, long-lasting bulbs.
2PCS Car Double DIN Installation Kit with Screws, Sturdy Car Radio Installation Kit as Mounting Brackets with Multi-Hole Design, Professional Cars Stereo Installations Kits
This double DIN installation kit offers a robust mounting solution with adjustable, multi-hole brackets, enabling secure fitment of aftermarket stereos. Unlike the 100 PCS Trim Clips, which are for fixing panels, this kit emphasizes reliable stereo mounting, resisting vibrations and shocks. Its iron construction ensures durability, and the multiple screw holes enhance compatibility with different vehicle interiors. The kit’s straightforward installation process appeals to DIY enthusiasts, but it may require some trial and error to align the holes perfectly. The included screws simplify setup, although owners should verify the size matches their stereo units. This product is ideal for those upgrading their head unit who want a secure, professional-looking fit without extra mechanical work.
Pros:- Sturdy iron construction for durability
- Multi-hole adjustable design for compatibility
- Includes all necessary screws for installation
Cons:- Requires manual alignment; no quick-lock system
- Limited to stereo mounting, not general trim fixing
Best for: DIY car owners installing or replacing stereo units who need a sturdy, adaptable mounting solution.
Not ideal for: Owners simply looking for aesthetic interior upgrades or minor repairs, as this kit is focused solely on stereo installation.
- Material:Iron
- Number of brackets:2 pieces
- Size:2.95 x 2.72 x 0.96 inches
- Includes screws:8 pcs M5 screws
- Design:Multi-hole, adjustable
- Compatibility:Most vehicles with double DIN slot
Bottom line: This double DIN kit is perfect for owners upgrading their stereo who need a stable, adjustable mounting base.
FAPO PS+ Coilovers for Toyota 86 GT86 FT86 2012-2023, for Subaru BRZ 2012-2024, for Scion FR-S 2012+, 16 Level Damping Adjustable Height Mono-Tube Lowering Suspension Strut Kits
This coilover kit stands out for its highly adjustable damping settings, with 16 levels allowing precise tuning for different driving styles—whether on track or daily commuting. Compared to the single-spec simplicity of the Single Din Car Stereo Replacement Fitting Cage, the FAPO PS+ offers a tailored ride experience, but the complexity of installation and tuning makes it less suitable for beginners. The mono-tube design ensures consistent damping performance, even under aggressive driving, making it perfect for those who demand more control. However, the adjustable camber plates and spring preload require professional installation, adding to the overall cost and effort. This kit is ideal for enthusiasts looking to fine-tune their GR86’s handling and stance, willing to invest in setup time.
Pros:- 16 levels of damping adjustment for tailored handling
- Mono-tube design ensures consistent damping performance
- Adjustable camber plates improve tire grip and stability
Cons:- Requires professional installation due to complex setup
- Higher cost compared to non-adjustable coilovers
Best for: Performance-focused owners who want to customize ride height and handling for track days or spirited driving.
Not ideal for: Casual drivers or those seeking a simple plug-and-play suspension upgrade without professional setup.
- Compatibility:Toyota 86/GT86/FT86 2012-2023, Subaru BRZ 2012-2024, Scion FR-S 2012+
- Damping Adjustment:16 levels
- Design:Mono-tube
- Spring Rate:Front: 8 kg/mm, Rear: 8 kg/mm
- Spring Length:Front: 135mm, Rear: 160mm
- Spring Preload:7-10mm
Bottom line: This kit makes the most sense for experienced owners aiming to optimize handling and stance through detailed adjustments.
Single Din Car Stereo Replacement Fitting Cage,Sturdy Car Radio Installation Kit with Side Snaps,Professional Single Din Radio Mount Cage Cars Accessories for DVD Player/Stereo
This mounting cage offers a straightforward solution for replacing or upgrading a damaged or missing single din radio slot, with a durable metal construction that resists deformation over time. Unlike the FAPO PS+ coilovers, which require professional tuning, this cage is simple to install, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts. Its universal size and bendable side snaps ensure a snug fit for most single din devices, providing a secure hold even on rough roads. While not offering any handling or suspension upgrades, it effectively stabilizes the radio, preventing wobbles and rattles. The main tradeoff is that it only addresses radio installation, not vehicle dynamics or handling. This product is perfect for owners looking to restore or upgrade their stereo setup quickly and reliably.
Pros:- Sturdy metal construction resists deformation
- Universal fit with bendable side snaps
- Simple, tool-free installation
Cons:- Limited to radio/stereo mounting, no handling benefits
- Does not include other installation accessories or wiring
Best for: Owners seeking a reliable, easy-to-install mounting solution for their single din stereo or DVD player.
Not ideal for: Owners wanting suspension upgrades or handling improvements, as this product solely focuses on radio mounting.
- Size:7.11*2.33*2.05 inches
- Material:Metal
- Internal Height:2.03 inches
- Compatibility:Most single din devices
- Weight:5.16 oz
- Installation:Bendable side snaps
Bottom line: This cage makes the most sense for owners needing a durable, straightforward radio mount, especially for DIY installations.
Toyota GR86
While this 1:24 scale model kit of the Toyota GR86 is unrelated to performance upgrades, it appeals to collectors and hobbyists who enjoy detailed modeling. Compared with the FAPO coilovers or stereo cage, this product offers no direct vehicle enhancement but provides a rewarding assembly experience for enthusiasts interested in showcasing a miniature replica. The absence of tools, glue, and paints in the box means additional purchases are necessary, and the model is purely for display, not real driving. This kit is ideal for model builders or fans who want a detailed replica for display or collection, not for actual vehicle performance or handling improvements.
Pros:- Highly detailed scale replica in 1:24
- Great for display and collection
- Perfect for model-building enthusiasts
Cons:- No impact on vehicle performance or handling
- Tools, glue, and paints are not included and must be purchased separately
- Not suitable for children or rough handling due to delicate parts
Best for: Hobbyists and collectors eager to build a detailed miniature of the Toyota GR86.
Not ideal for: Owners seeking functional vehicle upgrades or handling enhancements.
- Scale:1:24
- Materials:Plastic
- Tools Included:None
- Paints Included:None
- Assembly Required:Yes
- Intended Use:Display and collection
Bottom line: This model kit is best for dedicated hobbyists interested in detailed miniature displays, not for vehicle performance upgrades.
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on performance potential, compatibility with the Toyota GR86, build quality, ease of installation, and overall value. Priority was given to kits that deliver reliable power gains without excessive complexity or cost. Kits explicitly designed for the GR86 or with proven compatibility were favored, while universal options were assessed for their flexibility and ease of integration. The ranking reflects a balance between user-friendliness and performance, ensuring buyers can select a turbo kit suited to their experience level and goals.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Turbo Kits For Toyota GR86
Choosing the right turbo kit for your Toyota GR86 requires understanding several key factors. Beyond raw power, consider how the kit integrates with your vehicle’s existing systems, your budget, and your mechanical skill. Proper tuning and installation are essential for safety and performance, so select a kit that matches your experience level. Additionally, think about long-term durability and whether the kit includes all necessary hardware. Avoid kits that promise excessive power without supporting components or those that complicate installation for beginners.Compatibility and Fitment
Ensuring the turbo kit is compatible with the Toyota GR86 is essential. Kits designed specifically for the model typically offer better fitment and fewer installation headaches. Universal kits provide flexibility but demand more customization and tuning. Verify that the kit includes mounting brackets, piping, and hardware suited for the GR86 to avoid unexpected modifications. Incompatibility can lead to leaks, poor performance, or damage, making this a priority factor in your choice.
Performance Gains and Tuning
While many turbo kits advertise significant horsepower increases, real-world gains depend on proper tuning and supporting modifications. Kits with adjustable features, such as wastegate or boost controllers, allow for fine-tuning to match your desired power level. Overly aggressive kits without proper tuning can cause reliability issues or damage. Balance your performance goals with the complexity of tuning — some kits are more plug-and-play, while others require expert setup.
Build Quality and Durability
Durability hinges on the quality of materials, welds, and components used in the kit. Cheaper kits might use inferior piping or weak connectors, leading to leaks or failures over time. Look for kits with stainless steel or high-grade aluminum components for longevity. Well-made hardware ensures consistent performance and reduces the need for frequent maintenance, especially if you plan to push your car hard or run at high boost levels.
Ease of Installation
Installation complexity varies significantly among kits. Factory-designed kits generally install more straightforwardly, often fitting with minimal modifications. Universal kits require custom fabrication, which can be daunting for DIY enthusiasts. Evaluate whether your skill level matches the kit’s demands, and consider professional installation if necessary. A complicated setup can extend project timelines and increase costs, so choose a kit aligned with your mechanical experience.
Cost and Value
Cost is a major factor, but cheaper kits often sacrifice build quality or performance potential. Premium kits tend to include better hardware, more precise tuning options, and comprehensive instructions, translating to better long-term value. It’s wise to compare what’s included in each package—such as intercoolers, piping, and hardware—before making a decision. Remember, investing in a slightly more expensive kit can save money on future repairs and tuning expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will installing a turbo kit void my Toyota GR86’s warranty?
Installing a turbo kit can potentially impact your vehicle’s warranty, especially if the modification causes damage or is not covered under warranty terms. Many manufacturers and dealerships are cautious about aftermarket power add-ons, but some kits are designed to be as close to OEM as possible, reducing this risk. It’s essential to review your warranty policy and consult with your dealer before proceeding. Proper installation and tuning also play roles in whether warranty claims are affected.
What additional upgrades are needed to safely run a turbo kit on my GR86?
To run a turbo kit safely, you may need supporting modifications such as upgraded fuel injectors, a high-flow intercooler, a tune for optimal air-fuel ratios, and possibly an upgraded exhaust system. These upgrades help manage increased boost pressures and prevent engine damage. Without proper supporting mods, there’s a risk of knocking, overheating, or long-term engine wear. Planning these upgrades alongside your turbo kit ensures reliable, consistent performance.
Is it better to buy a complete kit or assemble parts separately?
Buying a complete kit simplifies the installation process, as all components are designed to work together, reducing compatibility issues. Assembling parts separately offers customization but can be time-consuming and requires more expertise to ensure proper fitment and tuning. For most owners, a well-reviewed complete kit provides a safer, more straightforward path to boosting performance. However, experienced enthusiasts may prefer to mix and match components for tailored setups.
How much horsepower can I realistically expect from a turbo kit on my GR86?
Realistic gains depend on the kit and supporting modifications but generally range from 50 to 150 horsepower over stock, depending on boost levels and tuning. Factory turbo options tend to offer more conservative, reliable gains, while aftermarket kits can push higher with the right tuning and components. Keep in mind that pushing for maximum power can compromise reliability if not managed carefully, so set your expectations based on your intended use and setup.
How long does it typically take to install a turbo kit on the Toyota GR86?
The installation time varies based on the kit and your experience level. A factory-designed, bolt-on turbo kit can often be installed within a weekend for a skilled mechanic. Universal kits or custom setups may take longer, especially if modifications or fabrication are required. Planning for several days, including tuning, ensures a thorough and safe installation. If you’re inexperienced, professional installation might be the best route to avoid costly mistakes and ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion
For buyers seeking the best overall performance and ease of use, the FAPO PS+ Coilovers offers a reliable, tunable setup that balances power and durability. Those on a tighter budget might prefer a universal turbo kit with custom potential, though it requires more effort. If premium quality and seamless integration matter most, the Toyota OEM Turbo Kit stands out as the ideal choice. Beginners aiming for straightforward installation should consider kits with comprehensive support, while performance enthusiasts will appreciate adjustable options for fine-tuning. Ultimately, your selection should align with your experience level, budget, and performance goals—this guide helps clarify those priorities.
