TOYOTA is giving an extra sharp edge to its successful sports coupe with the launch of a new limited edition GT86 TRD model.

Those initials stand for Toyota Racing Development and just 250 examples will be up for grab, equipped with design and performance features from one of the automotive world's most accomplished after market engineering businesses.

The GT86, shortlisted for both European and World Car of the Year awards, is the first UK Toyota for which official TRD parts have been used to create a specific production model grade.

And from its sale date at the start of next month, the GT86 TRD will also create a new halo model for the 2+2 coupe range.

Both six-speed manual and automatic versions will be available in a choice of two colours - Pearl White and GT86 Black, with prices of £31,495 for the manual and £32,995 for the automatic.

The car's focus is on sports styling, the package including 18-inch cast TF6 alloys, deep front and side skirts, a rear bumper spoiler and fast-response quad exhaust system with a rear diffuser to increase stability.

TRD touches also extend to a branded radiator cap and fuel filler cover, while inside the car there is a new TRD gear shift lever.

That's in addition to GT86 standard kit like HID headlamps, front fog lamps, limited slip differential, Smart Entry and Start, dual-zone climate control, analogue dials and meters, drilled aluminium pedals, sports seats, scuff plates, cruise control and the Toyota Touch multimedia system.

Acceleration and maximum speed are unchanged at 7.7 seconds for 0-62mph and 140mph for the manual and 8.4 seconds and 130mph for the automatic.

There are, however, slight changes in fuel consumption and emissions - 192g/km and 34.9mpg for the manual and 181g/km and 36.2mpg for the automatic.