Scion Test Drive: Toyota FT-86 Logo

Car and Driver claims to have uncovered the logo for the upcoming Toyota FT-86. The logo shows off an "86" in the centre. The "86" is a nod to the Toyota AE86 from the 80's, which now has a bit of a cult following in the drifting world. It is also suggested that the opposing pistons is a reference to the boxer style of engine. The FT-86 has been co-developed with Subaru (Toyota owns a chunk of Subaru) and is expected to be delivered with a Subaru boxer engine.

Source: Car and Driver

So why is a story about a Toyota on a Scion blog? Some have suggested that the FT-86 may actually arrive to market as a Scion. The Wall Street Journal, via Autoblog.com, reports that:

"...Toyota management told dealers in Las Vegas there will be a production version of the FT-86 badged as a Scion model. The move would help bolster the struggling brand, which has been a bit product-starved of late. There are also rumors of a new price point – as high as $25,000 – and the possibility that the Subaru version will only be available in Europe."

I think if this logo is accurate, that it puts to rest the idea of the FT-86 being badged as a Scion. The AE86 is something of an iconic car for Toyota and has no ties to Scion. Why include the "86" in th logo if it isn't a Toyota?

Of course they could sell it as a Toyota in most markets and as a Scion in North America. Seems to me it would compete with the tC, to a certain extent, so far as being a small 2-door coupe. I'd rather see it as a Toyota to bring a bit of sportiness back to that brand!

[Sources: Car and Driver, Autoblog.com]