It seems appropriate to say that pop-up headlights are a thing of the past, at least regarding new car designs. With Lamborghini reviving the Countach and Ferrari redesigning the Testarossa without those iconic flippers, the hope for further retro resurrections seems bleak. However, just because manufacturers have moved on from the trend doesn’t mean we have, nor does Result Japan, a tuning shop showcasing a contemporary Toyota 86 equipped with pop-ups at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon.
Result refers to the vehicle as the NEO86. Observing it from the rear three-quarter perspective, you might mistake it for just another widebody. It is styled in Initial D fashion, reminiscent of many 86s before, paying tribute to the series’ AE86 Corolla. The intrigue begins when you shift to the side view, revealing front fenders with an added slope, corner marker ambers, and indeed, pop-up headlights. It feels somewhat odd, akin to an optical trick, but that doesn’t imply it’s unfavorable.
It’s not clear what alterations Result Japan has implemented specifically, but several are apparent. The fenders protrude significantly more than usual, the hood has been modified to fit the headlights with a distinctive lip, and the bumper deviates considerably from the standard 86. Personally, I value the comprehensive effort to achieve the desired look. It may or may not appeal to your taste, but at least they didn’t merely remove the factory headlights and fill the void with Bondo.
Result indicates that pre-orders will begin during the Tokyo Auto Salon, scheduled for Jan. 9-11. It appears they’ll be offering the entire kit for 86 owners to install on their vehicles, yet it remains unclear if there will be a dealer network to facilitate the installations. Pricing will likely be revealed at the launch, but for now, your guess is as good as mine. Given how many of these have been enjoyed on skid pads and rough back roads, this kit might cost as much as a first-gen 86.
Those who are enthusiastic about it will probably pay any amount and be satisfied! Kudos to them!
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**Japanese Modifier Introduces Pop-Up Headlights to Contemporary Toyota 86**
In the domain of automotive modification, few changes invoke the imagination quite like the inclusion of pop-up headlights. This retro feature, once a signature of 1980s and 1990s sports cars, has made its return in the modern age, thanks to inventive Japanese tuners. A prominent example is the latest project that retrofits the present-day Toyota 86 with pop-up headlights, merging classic aesthetics with current performance.
### The Toyota 86: A Quick Overview
The Toyota 86, known as the Subaru BRZ in certain markets, is a lightweight sports coupe that has gained a devoted fanbase since its launch in 2012. Renowned for its rear-wheel-drive configuration, balanced chassis, and engaging driving experience, the 86 appeals to enthusiasts who value the essence of driving. Yet, although the car features contemporary styling and technology, some aficionados long for the allure of traditional automotive design elements.
### The Charm of Pop-Up Headlights
Pop-up headlights were once a hallmark of many legendary sports cars, including the Mazda RX-7, Chevrolet Corvette, and the Toyota Supra. These lights not only served a practical purpose but also enhanced the sleek, aerodynamic contours of the vehicles. As automotive design progressed, pop-up headlights fell out of favor due to safety standards and the advent of more efficient lighting solutions. Nevertheless, their nostalgic charm continues to resonate strongly among car enthusiasts.
### The Modifier’s Ambition
A Japanese tuning firm, recognized for its inventive modifications, has taken on a project to incorporate pop-up headlights into the modern Toyota 86. This ambitious endeavor involves significant engineering and design efforts to ensure that the pop-up system operates flawlessly with the car’s pre-existing components. The modifier strives to preserve the sporty look of the 86 while integrating a singular feature that pays tribute to the classic automobiles of the past.
### Technical Obstacles
Retrofitting pop-up headlights onto a modern vehicle poses several technical hurdles. The modifier must devise a unique mechanism that allows the headlights to rise and drop reliably while making sure they comply with current safety regulations. Moreover, integrating the headlights with the car’s electrical system necessitates meticulous planning to prevent wiring and functionality issues.
### Aesthetic Improvements
In addition to mechanical elements, the modifier also emphasizes the visual incorporation of the pop-up headlights. Custom body modifications may be required to accommodate the new lights, ensuring a seamless blend with the 86’s design language. The tuner might also explore various headlight styles, ranging from classic rounded shapes to more angular designs, to enhance the car’s overall aesthetics.
### Community Response
The announcement of the pop-up headlight initiative has stirred considerable excitement within the automotive community. Enthusiasts are thrilled about the potential to fuse modern performance with nostalgic styling. Social media channels and automotive forums are buzzing with discussions, showcasing concept art and speculating on possible performance enhancements that could accompany the new lights.
### Conclusion
The incorporation of pop-up headlights into the modern Toyota 86 embodies a fascinating blend of nostalgia and innovation. As Japanese tuners continue to expand the horizons of automotive customization, projects like this underline the lasting allure of classic design traits in modern vehicles. Whether this trend will resonate with a wider audience remains to be seen, but for countless enthusiasts, the charm of pop-up headlights will forever hold a cherished spot in their automotive passions.