IN recent years there has been a constant stream of new cars from Toyota but it's definitely the beautifully-crafted GT86 that has made the crowds sit up and listen.

That's because it's been some time since the Japanese manufacturer wowed us with its sporty MR2 and Celica models, but the wait is certainly over with the arrival of the striking 2+2 sports car.

It looks amazing from any angle thanks to 17-inch alloys, LED daytime running lights, a rear spoiler, front fog lights and shark fin antenna, but the GT86 has another hidden secret as it also boasts a very reasonable price-tag of £25,000.

The interior of the driver-focused cockpit is feature rich with the likes of dual-zone climate control, a 6.1-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker sound system with DAB radio and CD player, rear-view camera, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control and the option of Toyota Touch and Go priced at £750 which adds sat nav functions.

The roar within the cabin is loud and thrilling as the engine's intake system is linked to the driver's use of the throttle and drawn into the cabin for a sportier sound under heavy acceleration.

And that loud audio soundtrack is just a hint of the power, driving dynamics and purist fun to be enjoyed at the wheel of the GT86.

Powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine, the car can sprint to 62mph from a standing start in 7.7 seconds although it feels much faster and it tops out at 140mph.

Acceleration through the six-speed manual gearbox is fast and furious with a constant supply of power on tap. And thanks to the car's low centre of gravity tight bends can be attacked and conquered with confidence.

In busy town centres, the car is guaranteed to turn heads as it coasts by and out on faster lanes, it eats up the miles with ease.

Admittedly you will feel a number of bumps and dips along the way and space in the rear of the car is very limited, but never forget that this is a sports coupe and those minor inconveniences are easily outweighed by the many thrilling plus factors.

I clocked up more than 400 miles and thoroughly enjoyed every minute. That said, I did find I was shouting at the end of long journeys after listening to the car's engine for a while.

The car also has a comprehensive list of safety features, including numerous airbags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, vehicle stability control, traction control, a tyre pressure warning system and plenty more besides.