If you thought involving affordable sportscars belonged back in history, then you’ll find Toyota’s GT86 a welcome breath of fresh air. Developed and desired by enthusiasts, it reamins a benchmark in the compact coupe sector, a masterclass in driving dynamics. Now, it’s even better.

Dynamic differences with this improved model include revised suspension that improves corner turn-in and further enhances the original version’s keenness of response, agility and its ability to adjust the cornering attitude as much with the throttle as the helm. Another key change lies with a freshly-added selectable ‘track’ mode that lets the driver tap into the GT86’s full potential by adjusting the level of stability and traction control, including a ‘fully off’ option. Under the skin, the body structure has been made stiffer, amd the Showa shock absorbers have been retuned for better handling and ride comfort. Otherwise, things are much as before. The 2.0-litre Boxer engine beneath the bonnet remains, as does the relatively light 1,180 kg kerb weight which might lead you to expect the GT86 to make rather more of its 197bhp and 151lb ft of torque than the estimated headline performance stats of 140mph and 0-62mph in 7.6s suggest. But this car isn’t just about raw power. Its lean kerb weight plays just as big a role in the way it handles and rides.

The styling changes made to this revised model are subtle. There are now ‘teeth’ featured along the bottom edge of the lower grille in the redesigned nose section, which apparently help smooth the airflow. There is also a smarter, deeper rear bumper design, aero-stabilising fins have been introduced on the side of the car and there are smarter LED headlights and rear tail lamp clusters too. Otherwise it’s as you were. Detail changes inside include a grippier three-spoke steering wheel and a new 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display in the instrument cluster. As before, there are usable rear seats and a reasonably-sized 243-litre boot.

So, what we have here is something to savour; one of those rare machines that involves you so much that you don’t need to be travelling at three figure speeds to have fantastic fun. Factor in the affordable running costs and high residuals and this becomes a very tempting proposition indeed, especially in this usefully improved guise.

CAR: Toyota GT86
PRICES: £23,170-£29,160
INSURANCE GROUPS: 30
CO2 EMISSIONS: 164-192g/km
PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph 7.6s / top speed 140mph [manual]
FUEL CONSUMPTION: 36.2-39.8mpg [combined]
STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ESP, ABS, twin front and side airbags
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: 4240/1775/1285mm