AE86‑Style Bodykit Gives the Toyobaru Pop‑Up Headlights and Real Chunky Bumpers

AE86‑Style Bodykit Revives Toyobaru’s Pop‑Up Headlights and Chunky Bumpers – Full Review

Image: AE86‑Style Bodykit Revives Toyobaru’s Pop‑Up Headlights and Chunky Bumpers – Full Review – Performance Comparison and Specifications

When you think about the golden era of Japanese sport coupes, the AE86 instantly pops into mind. Its sharp lines, lightweight chassis, and that unmistakable pop‑up headlight action have become cult icons. Imagine taking that retro charm and grafting it onto the modern Toyobaru – a move that promises a louder visual statement and a touch of nostalgia. The new AE86‑style bodykit does exactly that: it restores the beloved pop‑up headlights, adds genuine chunky bumpers, and layers the whole package with a blend of classic flair and contemporary performance potential.

Why a Pop‑Up Bodykit Matters

In a world where sleek LED strips dominate, the simple joy of a headlight that rises and falls feels almost poetic. A world with more pop‑ups is better than a world with fewer of them – that’s the mantra driving the kit’s design. Beyond aesthetics, the kit also improves aerodynamic balance and offers a platform for further upgrades, such as turbo‑petrol conversions or advanced driver‑assistance systems (ADAS).

Design & Dimensions

Component	Original Size	Kit Size
Front Bumper	1500 mm	1520 mm
Rear Bumper	1480 mm	1495 mm
Headlight Housing	Fixed	Pop‑up (90 mm travel)
Overall Width	1740 mm	1745 mm

Key Design Highlights

Authentic AE86 front grille with chrome mesh.
Chunky, double‑buss bumper with integrated fog lights.
Pop‑up headlight mechanism sourced from original AE86 molds.
Carbon‑fiber reinforced side skirts for reduced weight.

Feature Comparison

Feature	Stock Toyobaru	AE86‑Style Kit	Benefit
Headlights	LED fixed	Pop‑up (retro)	Increased visual appeal, nostalgia factor
Bumper	Slim plastic	Chunky alloy	Better impact protection
Aerodynamics	Standard	Optimized front splitters	Reduced drag at 120 km/h
Weight	1320 kg	1315 kg	~5 kg lighter thanks to carbon fiber

Engine Specifications (Potential Upgrades)

Engine	Displacement	Power	Torque
Stock 2.0 L NA	1998 cc	150 hp @ 6,200 rpm	190 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Turbo‑Petrol Kit	1998 cc	225 hp @ 6,500 rpm	300 Nm @ 4,800 rpm
Hybrid Assist (optional)	1998 cc + 48 V	180 hp (combined)	220 Nm (combined)
Future ADAS‑Ready	1998 cc	Variable (depends on tuning)	Variable

Price Comparison

Package	Price (USD)	Includes
Stock Toyobaru	$28,000	Standard trim, LED headlights, basic infotainment
AE86 Bodykit Only	$2,800	Front/rear bumpers, pop‑up headlights, side skirts
Bodykit + Turbo‑Petrol	$4,500	Kit + turbo conversion, intercooler, ECU tune
Full Performance Pack	$7,200	Kit + turbo + ADAS sensor integration + carbon‑fiber upgrades

Installation Experience

Installing the kit is a weekend project for the average DIY enthusiast. The pop‑up mechanism bolts directly onto the existing mounting points, meaning you don’t have to cut or weld the chassis. My friend Jiro documented his build on YouTube, and the whole process took about 14 hours – from removing the stock bumper to wiring the headlight motor.

Step‑by‑Step Snapshot

Detach the factory front bumper and wiring harness.
Mount the new alloy bumper using the supplied brackets.
Install the pop‑up headlight assemblies, aligning the pivot pins carefully.
Reconnect the wiring, program the headlight control module.
Fit the rear chunky bumper, ensuring the built‑in fog lights align with the OEM sockets.

Real‑World Driving Feel

Beyond looks, the kit subtly changes the car’s dynamics. The heavier front bumper adds a touch of nose‑down weight, improving turn‑in response. When paired with a turbo‑petrol upgrade, the Toyobaru feels like a modern GT‑r with a retro soul – quick off the line, crisp at high revs, and still comfortable for daily drives.

ADAS Compatibility

One concern for owners is whether a bodykit will interfere with existing ADAS features such as lane‑keep assist or forward‑collision warning. The designers routed the new bumper’s sensors to sit just behind the original mounting points, preserving the calibration of the radar and camera suite. A quick post‑install calibration at a dealership ensures everything works as intended.

Turbo‑Petrol Potential

Many enthusiasts pair the kit with a turbo‑petrol conversion. The additional airflow from the enlarged front splitter works hand‑in‑hand with a 2.0 L turbo, delivering a smooth power band that peaks around 6,500 rpm. The result is a car that can sprint from 0‑100 km/h in under 6.5 seconds, a respectable figure for a vehicle that still feels light enough for spirited cornering.

Community Reaction

Forums like ToyotaForums.com have been buzzing. Over 1,200 members have posted photos of their builds, and the average rating sits at 4.7/5. One user, SpeedySam, wrote: “I never thought I’d see a modern Toyobaru with pop‑ups. It’s a conversation starter every time I hit a stoplight.”

Conclusion

Whether you’re a die‑hard AE86 fan, a Toyobaru owner craving a fresh look, or simply someone who believes a world with more pop‑ups is better than a world with fewer of them, this bodykit delivers on all fronts. It respects the heritage of the original while giving the modern car a tangible performance edge. Add a turbo‑petrol tune, keep the ADAS calibrated, and you’ve got a daily driver that feels like a weekend racer.

FAQ

1. Does the pop‑up headlight require additional wiring?: Yes, a short wiring harness is included, and it plugs into the factory connector.
2. Will the kit affect my car’s warranty?: Installation of aftermarket parts may void the specific component warranty, but the overall vehicle warranty remains intact if installed correctly.
3. Can I install the kit myself?: Yes, most DIYers can complete the installation in 12‑16 hours with basic hand tools.
4. Is the kit compatible with the latest ADAS features?: Absolutely – the bumper sensors are designed to sit behind the original mounts, preserving radar and camera functionality.
5. How much does the kit add to the car’s weight?: The kit actually sheds about 5 kg thanks to carbon‑fiber components, though the chunky bumpers add a small amount of mass.
6. What is the expected fuel economy after a turbo‑petrol upgrade?: Expect a 5‑7% increase in consumption under spirited driving, but daily‑commute figures remain close to stock.
7. Are there colour‑matching options?: Yes, the kit is available in factory‑matched paint, matte black, and a brushed aluminium finish.
8. Does the kit come with a warranty?: All components are covered for 2 years or 24,000 km, whichever comes first.
9. Can the kit be removed without damaging the car?: Yes, because it bolts to existing points, removal is straightforward and leaves the original panels intact.
10. Where can I buy the kit?: Official distributors include TuningStore.com and select authorized Toyota accessory shops.