Malaysia’s one-make racing scene is set to accelerate in 2025 with the launch of the GR86 Cup Malaysia Series, a new motorsport championship that will feature the latest iteration of the Toyota GR86 sports coupe. Organised by Haro Sports and Entertainment Sdn Bhd, the series aims to provide a competitive yet accessible entry point into professional racing, spotlighting driving skill over mechanical advantage.
The inaugural GR86 Cup Malaysia Series will make its first appearance as a support race during the Malaysian round of the 2025 SUPER GT Series, held at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit from 26 to 28 June. The event will include two 10-lap sprint races. Two more rounds will follow: the second taking place alongside the Malaysia Championship Series 300km race, while the grand finale will feature an endurance-style 86-lap contest. All three rounds are slated to be held at Sepang.
Fahrizal Hasan, Managing Partner at Haro Sports and Entertainment, stated that the GR86 Cup Malaysia Series is crafted as a highly competitive yet cost-effective racing platform. The series, he added, is intended to allow racing enthusiasts to transition into a more capable and dynamic race car environment while maintaining an even playing field centred on driving talent.
Entry to the series is limited to just 30 participants on a first-come, first-served basis. Each GR86 Cup car is imported directly from Japan and priced at RM208,315, inclusive of motorsport approval paperwork and sales tax. Delivery will be made directly to the Sepang circuit. The race-prepped GR86 units are purpose-built for track use and not approved for public road use. They are compliant with the 2025 Malaysian Championship Series SP1 technical specifications.
Under the bonnet, the GR86 Cup car is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.4-litre four-cylinder flat-four “boxer” engine, featuring Toyota’s D-4S direct and port injection system. The engine delivers 228hp at 7,000 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 3,700 rpm. A full exhaust system developed by Fujitsubo further enhances the car’s performance. The total weight of the vehicle, including the driver, is approximately 1,290 kg.
The rear-wheel-drive layout is complemented by a six-speed manual gearbox and a Torsen limited-slip differential. Enhancements for racing durability include a Cusco-manufactured single-plate competition clutch and an integrated transmission cooler system. Optimised electronic throttle mapping improves accelerator control, while revisions to the electric power steering system enhance stability and road tracking under aggressive manoeuvres.
Braking is handled by Advics monobloc aluminium callipers, with four pistons at the front and two at the rear. These are paired with ventilated 345 x 30 mm two-piece front discs and larger 330 x 26 mm one-piece rear discs for improved stopping power.
Suspension is managed by KW Racing’s inverted strut shock absorbers, which offer enhanced rigidity and precision. TRD suspension bushes further refine the suspension geometry for optimal track performance. Grip is provided by 225/45R17 Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS tyres mounted on 17-inch Raxer RP10X forged alloy wheels—lightweight yet built to withstand the rigours of racing.
Safety has been prioritised with a bespoke roll cage constructed to meet and exceed JAF’s “Speed B” and “Speed SA” domestic racing standards. The cage utilises 40mm piping—above the 35mm requirement—and includes side bars for both driver and passenger protection. Additional safety features include a fire suppression system, FIA-approved Bride ZETA series bucket seats, and a six-point HANS-compatible safety harness.
With its mix of balanced performance, robust safety equipment, and tight technical regulations, the GR86 Cup Malaysia Series is poised to become a prominent fixture in the local motorsport calendar, offering both emerging talent and seasoned racers a new avenue to showcase their capabilities behind the wheel of one of Toyota’s most engaging performance cars.
