Choosing the right turbo kit for your Toyota GR86 means balancing performance gains, installation complexity, and legal compliance. Among the top contenders, the HKS 86/BRZ GTIII-RS Bolt-On PRO Kit stands out for its high-performance turbine and ease of bolt-on installation, perfect for enthusiasts seeking quick upgrades. The WORKS 2017-2019 BRZ / 86 Stage 2 Turbo Kit offers a reliable, C.A.R.B. compliant option with a genuine Garrett turbo, suited for those prioritizing legal legality and durability. Meanwhile, the Toyota GR86 Model Kit (1:24 Scale) is a playful, non-performance alternative, ideal for hobbyists and collectors rather than drivers seeking real horsepower gains. Each option presents tradeoffs between complexity, legality, and purpose, making clear differences for various buyer needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The HKS GTIII-RS kit offers high-performance bolt-on capabilities but is limited to manual transmission models and doesn’t include an oil cooler.
- The WORKS turbo kit provides a legal, durable option with a genuine Garrett turbo, suitable for daily drivers seeking reliability.
- The Toyota GR86 plastic model kit serves as a fun display piece but has no performance enhancement benefits.
- Installation difficulty varies; some kits require professional help, especially the turbo options.
- Legal compliance and durability are key considerations in choosing a turbo kit for street use.
| HKS 86/BRZ GTIII-RS Bolt-On PRO Kit |  | Best Overall Bolt-On Turbo for Toyota 86/BRZ | Product Code: 11001-AT005 | Compatible Models: Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ | Engine: FA20 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Toyota GR86 Model Kit (1:24 Scale) |  | Best for Hobbyists and Collectors | Scale: 1:24 | Type: Plastic model kit | Brand: Toyota | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| WORKS 2017-2019 BRZ / 86 Stage 2 Turbo Kit – Calibrated Version, CARB Compliant |  | Best Legal and Durable Turbo Kit for Daily Driving | Application: 2017-2019 Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86 | Turbocharger: Genuine Garrett GT28 ball bearing, water-cooled | Peak Boost: 12 psi | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HKS 86/BRZ GTIII-RS Bolt-On PRO Kit
The HKS 86/BRZ GTIII-RS Bolt-On PRO Kit excels for those seeking a straightforward, high-performance upgrade. Designed specifically for manual transmission Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ models, it features the robust GTIII-RS turbine, which is known for rapid spool and high efficiency. Compared with other kits, it simplifies installation with a bolt-on approach, making it accessible for experienced DIYers or professional installers. However, it’s limited to manual cars and does not include an oil cooler, which could be a concern for those pushing peak power. Overall, this kit strikes a balance of performance and ease but requires additional components for full functionality.
Pros:- Specifically designed for Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ
- High-performance GTIII-RS turbine
- Easy bolt-on installation
Cons:- Oil cooler kit not included
- Limited to manual transmission models
Best for: Enthusiasts seeking high-performance, bolt-on turbo upgrades for manual transmission Toyota 86/BRZ models
Not ideal for: Owners of automatic transmission models or those wanting a complete, ready-to-install package with all accessories
- Product Code:11001-AT005
- Compatible Models:Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ
- Engine:FA20
- Year:2012-2016
- Turbine Size:GTIII-RS
- Note:For M/T cars
Our verdict“Ideal for performance-focused owners with manual cars who want a reliable bolt-on turbo upgrade.”
Toyota GR86 Model Kit (1:24 Scale)
This 1:24 scale plastic model kit of the Toyota GR86 offers little in the way of performance gains but appeals to hobbyists interested in building detailed replicas. It’s a compact display piece, perfect for collectors or those wanting a detailed model to showcase. Unlike turbo kits, it doesn’t provide any power improvements, but its detailed design and realistic appearance make it a fun project for model enthusiasts. The main limitation is that tools, glue, and paints are not included, requiring additional purchases. This option clearly doesn’t serve drivers seeking to upgrade their car’s performance but is a charming alternative for display and collection purposes.
Pros:- Highly detailed and realistic model design
- Compact and easy to display
- Ideal for collectors and hobbyists
Cons:- Tools, glue, and paints not included
- Not suitable for actual performance enhancement
Best for: Hobbyists, collectors, and toy enthusiasts interested in detailed model building
Not ideal for: Anyone seeking performance upgrades or real driving modifications
- Scale:1:24
- Type:Plastic model kit
- Brand:Toyota
Our verdict“Best suited for enthusiasts wanting a detailed, collectible model of the GR86 rather than a performance upgrade.”
WORKS 2017-2019 BRZ / 86 Stage 2 Turbo Kit – Calibrated Version, CARB Compliant
The WORKS Stage 2 Turbo Kit stands out for drivers prioritizing street legality and reliability. It features a genuine Garrett GT28 ball bearing, water-cooled turbo, and a fully calibrated setup, making it suitable for the 2017-2019 Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86. This kit is 50-state legal and C.A.R.B. compliant, which means it can be used legally in all U.S. states without worry. Its durable powder-coated components, silicone couplers, and clamps contribute to longevity and consistent performance. While it requires professional installation and may deliver slightly lower peak boost compared to race-oriented kits, it provides roughly 12 psi of boost, enough for noticeable power gains. Its focus on durability and legality makes it a smart choice for daily drivers who want peace of mind.
Pros:- 50-state legal and C.A.R.B. compliant
- Includes genuine Garrett turbocharger
- Durable powder-coated components
Cons:- Requires professional installation
- Peak boost may vary depending on setup
Best for: Daily drivers seeking a legal, reliable turbo upgrade with street-ready performance
Not ideal for: Owners seeking maximum racing power or DIY enthusiasts comfortable with complex installs
- Application:2017-2019 Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86
- Turbocharger:Genuine Garrett GT28 ball bearing, water-cooled
- Peak Boost:12 psi
- Compliance:C.A.R.B.
- Material:Powder coated components
- Couplers:4-ply silicone
- Clamps:Rolled edge hose clamps
Our verdict“This kit offers a balanced mix of legality, durability, and performance for street-driven GR86 owners.”
How We Picked
To determine the best turbo kits for the Toyota GR86, I evaluated key factors such as compatibility with popular model years, performance potential, legal compliance, ease of installation, and durability. I prioritized products designed specifically for the GR86 and similar models, considering user reviews and manufacturer reputation. Kits with proven track records for reliability and street legality ranked higher, while those meant for hobbyists or display purposes were included for comparison. Cost and availability also influenced rankings, ensuring recommendations serve a range of buyer needs from enthusiasts to casual owners.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Turbo Kits For Toyota GR86
Deciding on the best turbo kit for your Toyota GR86 involves balancing performance aspirations, installation complexity, and legal considerations. The ideal choice depends on your specific goals—whether it’s achieving maximum horsepower, ensuring street legality, or simply exploring the hobby of car modification. Understanding key factors like compatibility, power potential, and component quality can simplify your decision-making process.
Compatibility and Model Year
Most turbo kits are tailored for specific model years and transmission types. For example, the HKS GTIII-RS is designed for earlier models (2012-2016) with manual transmissions, making it less suitable for newer automatic-equipped GR86s. The WORKS kit, on the other hand, covers 2017-2019 models and emphasizes street legality. Confirm your vehicle’s year and transmission before choosing a kit to avoid compatibility issues.
Performance vs. Ease of Installation
High-performance turbo kits like the HKS GTIII-RS tend to offer quicker spool and higher horsepower gains, but often require advanced mechanical skills or professional installation. Conversely, bolt-on kits such as the HKS model are designed for straightforward installation but may have limited power gains. Hobbyist kits, like the plastic model, serve a different purpose altogether—display rather than drive.
Legal and Durability Considerations
If street legality is a priority, look for kits that are C.A.R.B. compliant and 50-state legal, such as the WORKS turbo kit. These kits are tested and calibrated for safe, legal operation on public roads. Durability also matters; powder-coated components and quality turbochargers like Garrett are indicators of a kit built to last under daily driving conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a turbo kit myself?
While some bolt-on kits like the HKS 86/BRZ GTIII-RS are designed for easier installation, many turbo kits, especially those involving complex plumbing and calibration like the WORKS Turbo Kit, typically require professional installation. Proper setup ensures safety, optimal performance, and longevity of the components, so consider your mechanical skills before attempting a DIY install.
Are all turbo kits street legal?
No, not all turbo kits are legal for street use. Kits like the WORKS Stage 2 Turbo Kit are specifically calibrated to meet C.A.R.B. standards and are street legal in all 50 states. Always verify the legal status of a kit before purchasing if street legality is essential for your driving plans.
What kind of power gains can I expect?
Power gains depend on the specific kit and setup. The HKS GTIII-RS kit offers significant performance improvements suitable for aggressive driving, while the WORKS turbo kit provides a more moderate, reliable boost of around 12 psi for daily driving. Always consider your goals; higher boost levels often require additional supporting modifications.
Do I need additional components for installation?
Yes, most turbo kits require additional parts such as oil coolers, intercoolers, or tuning. For example, the HKS kit does not include an oil cooler, so you’ll need to purchase one separately. Proper tuning is essential to ensure the engine runs safely and efficiently after the upgrade.
How does a turbo kit affect vehicle reliability?
Adding a turbo can increase stress on engine components, so quality kits with robust construction and proper calibration tend to be more reliable. Kits like the WORKS Turbo Kit are designed with durability in mind, but improper installation or tuning can lead to issues. Regular maintenance and professional setup help maximize reliability.
Conclusion
For performance enthusiasts willing to handle installation and tuning, the HKS 86/BRZ GTIII-RS Bolt-On PRO Kit offers impressive gains with straightforward bolt-on ease. If street legality and durability are your priorities, the WORKS Turbo Kit provides a reliable, legal upgrade suitable for daily driving. Hobbyists or collectors seeking a detailed replica of the GR86 will find the Toyota GR86 Model Kit to be a fun, decorative alternative. Match your choice to your driving goals, mechanical skill, and whether street legality or display value matters most.
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