The excellent handling of the Toyota GT86 served as a model for the development of the new GR 86. The chassis and suspension were redesigned in order to adapt the handling properties and responsiveness to the additional engine power. Light and high-strength materials provide additional rigidity while reducing weight. Additional reinforcements have been added in key areas.

At the front of the vehicle, diagonal cross members were installed at the connection points between the suspension and the vehicle frame, which improve the load transfer from the front tires and reduce lateral deformation. High-strength brackets were installed to connect the frame and suspension, and the bonnet has a new, diagonal inner frame that replaces the previous honeycomb design. These measures made it possible to increase the lateral stiffness of the front body by 60 percent.

At the rear, a continuous ring structure connects the upper and lower chassis. As at the front, new connecting elements between the frame and suspension ensure better handling when cornering quickly. Since the interior trim is now connected to the vehicle platform, a continuous frame structure was created. The overall torsional rigidity of the body has increased by 50 percent.