Following news earlier this week of proposed pricing for the Toyota 86 in South Africa, Toyota South Africa Motors has confirmed its pricing of one of 2012′s most eagerly awaited cars.

The all-new Toyota 86 officially debuts in SA, with the standard specification model, on the 9th July. This will be followed shortly by two high-spec versions later in the month. Starting at R298 500 (incl. VAT), the coupe appears an affordable driving enthusiasts car.

At the top end of the range are the two ‘high’ specification models (a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed auto with paddle shift), equipped with all the trimmings including Smart Start (keyless entry system), leather/alcantara upholstery, fully automatic climate control system and 17-inch alloy wheels – to name a few. The 86 High manual will retail for R329 400 while the 86 High 6-speed Auto will carry a sticker price of R346 500. All 86 models come with a 4-year/60 000km service plan.

With 147 kW at 7 00 r/min and 205 Nm of torque at 6 400 r/min from its Subaru-sourced 2.0-litre, horizontally-opposed, 4-cylinder engine, the 86 should prove an alternative to similarly powered two-door hot-hatches, like the Audi A1 S-Line (136 kW), Renault Clio RS (147.5 kW) and Opel Corsa OPC (141 kW).

“The 86 is so much more than just another product, it signals a completely new direction for Toyota,” says Kerry Roodt, General Manager of Marketing Communications. “Here you have a car that’s designed entirely around the driver; a car that exists purely for those who regard driving as a passion rather than a necessity.”