Watch new GT86 CS-R3 show why RWD is for rally racing [video]

When you think of rally racing, Subaru’s WRX/STI and Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evolution all-wheel-drive performance cars have dominated the scene. Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) wants to change that and is definitely bringing new excitement to rally sport by developing the GT86 CS-R3, a rear-wheel-drive rally car. The GT86 is almost ready for release and TMG is making the final adjustments to the rally car.

TMG has been testing the 250 hp GT86 CS-R3 in Germany to get it ready for production and release to the public. They say the rally car will be available to customers in the first quarter of 2015 in kit form. TMG expects to offer a price comparable with other R3 models. They are testing it in the dirt and it looks like it’s almost ready. Check out the new video from TMG.

This special GT86 CS-R3 is targeted to deliver 240-250 hp and gets special upgrades that will make it conform to the FIA’s R3 regulation. This allows modification of its 2.0-liter Subaru boxer engine, changes to the software and hardware, such as cam lift and compression ratio, which are all part of an extensive development program by TMG.

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TMG has also sourced tailor-made wiring looms and motorsport engine ECUs, while the car will feature market-leading tarmac and gravel suspension kits, including specifically designed control arms. GT86 CS-R3 has already undergone extensive testing on various race conditions and surfaces to prepare for its dealer launch in 2015. The extreme dirt and gravel testing in the video shows the new 2015 Toyota GT86 CS-R3 RWD rally car is ready.