You may have seen photos of the Toyota GR86’s fuel door that says “Premium Unleaded 98RON Fuel Only” circling on social media, catching the attention of even owners of the first generation Toyobaru 86/BRZ (let’s call it first-gen from here onwards).

Well, that was the case for the first-gen as well (the engine operates at a 12.5:1 compression ratio after all), which means like the first-gen, the GR86 will run on RON 95. But of course, for long-term use and longevity, higher RON fuels are recommended.

Anyway, let’s talk more about the GR86 itself. You’re probably already aware about the basics of it compared to the first-gen – a bigger 2.4-litre engine, stiffer chassis, plus the tweaks here and there. But how do they all add up? In a word, magnificently.

If you’re familiar with the first-gen, especially the pre-facelift models, you’d know that it’s a little rough around the edges.

The engine, for example, sounds like a tractor when you’re pootling along at parking speeds. The cabin isn’t particularly well-appointed and neither is build quality exceptional. It’s built to a price point and it’s evident.

Also read: Want to feel old? GR Garage starts refurbishment package for 10-year old Toyota 86

Stepping into the Toyota GR86, what struck me immediately was how much nicer the cabin is to be in compared to the first-gen. Quality has taken a noticeable step up in both build and material selection.

Its interior architecture is virtually unchanged, which means driving position and pedal placement are spot on. And every control and button are logically placed to ensure tip-top ergonomics.

Those were done right in the first-gen and they carried it on with welcome updates like a digital instrument cluster and a larger touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Even the seats are now more supportive than before.

Once settled into the comfy seats, I put it into first and rolled off. What’s also noticeable is that setting off smoothly doesn’t require as much finesse as before. It’s easier to judge the biting point and engage the clutch smoothly.

Driving at low speeds, the agricultural sounds that was quite apparent in the first-gen have become somewhat muted. This adds to the feeling of enhanced refinement, the car just feels more mechanically polished.

But don’t mistake that for being numb, it is anything but. Everything that is loved about the first-gen is very much present in the GR86, and more.

The 2.4-litre engine has addressed perhaps the biggest complaint of the first-gen, the GR86 is now decently quick in a straight line. It’s not the pin-you-to-the-seat type of acceleration you get from turbocharged engines. If you’re expecting that from the bigger engine, you’d still be underwhelmed.

Having said that, you can actually feel the push across the rev range, plus a more usable powerband. The infamous torque dip has been mostly eliminated; you won’t feel it unless you go looking for it.

Now this may be a slightly controversial to say, but I don’t mind the augmented engine noise generated through the speakers. It adds some drama and aggression to an otherwise bland sounding car. With an aftermarket exhaust system on, that would be a different story.

As for how it steers, I’d simply express it with a chef’s kiss. Steering is lighter than before and some may prefer the steering feel of the first-gen, but the GR86 is more effortless to operate and I’d chalk this up to the improved refinement.

That aside, the precision of the steering and level of communication the chassis provides are as good as they ever were. The way it steers and how the body reacts is just delicious, you’d feel at one with the car right from the get-go.

Despite the added weight, the GR86 feels as light on its feet as before. And when you push on and grab it by the scruff of its neck, the GR86 gets even better and truly comes alive.

Like the first-gen, it has this pivoting feeling where the rear of the car moves around when you approach its limits, not so much that you need to correct it, but you’re just steering the car from the rear axle.

And because it’s on a stickier rubber than the first-gen, you’re going faster than before, which gives an additional sense of exhilaration.

That window you get from the car telling you it’s in a transition to an oversteer is so large, you can stay in that neutral zone and flirt with going sideways. This is the automotive equivalent to edging (please don’t Google this at work) and why I adore this platform.

It’s a RM 300k car but there’s nothing else out there brand-new that does what it does (aside from its twin, the Subaru BRZ). Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a novice, if you love driving, you’ll love the Toyota GR86.

Premium unleaded RON 98 fuel only? I’d ask the GR86, “How much RON 100 fuel do you want?”

Also read: For the drivers: Toyota GR86 launched in Malaysia - From RM 295k, 237 PS/250 Nm