The Toyota GR86 has captured the hearts of driving purists with its lightweight chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and a naturally aspirated boxer engine that revs eagerly. But for enthusiasts seeking more than the factory 228 horsepower, forced induction offers a transformative upgrade. Supercharger kits specifically engineered for the GR86 provide a linear, responsive power increase without the lag associated with turbocharging. In this comprehensive guide, we dive deep into the top five supercharger kits for the GR86 in 2024, covering centrifugal, roots, and twin-screw options. Each kit is evaluated on power gains, installation complexity, tuning support, and overall value, so you can choose the perfect blower for your build.

Understanding Supercharger Types

Before selecting a kit, it’s important to understand the different supercharger architectures available for the GR86. Each type delivers boost in a distinct way, affecting power delivery, heat management, and installation requirements.

Centrifugal Superchargers

Centrifugal blowers use an impeller driven by a belt to compress air. They produce boost progressively with engine RPM, offering a smooth, linear power curve that feels like a larger naturally aspirated engine. Centrifugal kits are generally easier to install and generate less heat soak than positive-displacement designs, making them a popular choice for daily drivers and track enthusiasts alike.

Roots-Type Superchargers

Roots superchargers use two meshing lobes to move air directly into the intake. They provide instant boost from idle, resulting in immediate throttle response and tremendous low-to-midrange torque. The downside is increased heat generation and a more complex installation that often requires hood clearance modifications. Roots kits are ideal for drivers who want a muscular, torque-rich feel on the street.

Twin-Screw Superchargers

Twin-screw compressors (also called lysholm blowers) are similar to roots units but feature internal compression, making them more efficient and capable of producing cooler air. They retain instant throttle response while offering better thermal performance than traditional roots designs. The Edelbrock E-Force kit, featured below, uses a twin-screw rotor pack inside a roots-style housing to blend these benefits.

Top 5 GR86 Supercharger Kits for 2024

1. Vortech V-3 Si Supercharger Kit

The Vortech V-3 Si centrifugal supercharger kit is a benchmark for GR86 owners seeking a reliable, high-output upgrade. Featuring Vortech’s self-contained oil system and a high-helix gear case, the V-3 Si delivers exceptional efficiency and durability. The kit is designed for bolt-on installation with minimal modification to the engine bay, and it retains the factory air-to-water intercooler for consistent intake temperatures.

  • Type: Centrifugal (self-contained)
  • Power Gain: Up to 300 horsepower at the wheels (with proper tuning)
  • Boost Level: 8-10 psi
  • Intercooling: Air-to-water heat exchanger included
  • Tuning: Requires ECU recalibration; compatible with ECUTek or Cobb Accessport
  • Installation: Bolt-on with basic hand tools; no cutting or welding
  • Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
  • Estimated Price: $4,500 – $5,200 (depending on options and tuning package)
  • Pros: Linear power delivery, easy installation, proven reliability
  • Cons: Less low-end torque than roots-style kits

The Vortech kit is particularly well-suited for drivers who plan to use their GR86 on track days, as the centrifugal design minimizes heat soak and maintains consistent performance. For more details, visit the Vortech official site.

2. Edelbrock E-Force Supercharger System

Edelbrock’s E-Force system employs a twin-screw rotor pack housed in a compact, low-profile manifold. This design delivers instant boost from idle, transforming the GR86’s torque curve. The kit includes a high-capacity intercooler integrated into the intake manifold, ensuring dense, cool air even during extended pulls. Installation requires more extensive modifications, including trimming the engine cover and relocating some ancillary components, but the fit and finish are factory-grade.

  • Type: Twin-screw (roots-style housing)
  • Power Gain: Up to 320 horsepower (crank estimate)
  • Boost Level: 9-11 psi
  • Intercooling: Integrated air-to-water unit
  • Tuning: Standard ECU calibration included via Edelbrock’s calibration tool; ECUTek custom tuning recommended for maximum output
  • Installation: Moderate difficulty; includes step-by-step instructions
  • Warranty: 3-year limited warranty
  • Estimated Price: $5,800 – $6,500
  • Pros: Exceptional low-end torque, complete kit with tuning, robust warranty
  • Cons: Heavier than centrifugal kits; may require hood clearance check

Edelbrock’s reputation for quality makes this kit a top contender for drivers who demand immediate throttle response. Check the Edelbrock website for the latest fitment guide and pricing.

3. Jackson Racing Supercharger Kit

Jackson Racing has long been a trusted name in Honda forced induction, and their GR86 centrifugal kit brings that same engineering excellence to the Toyobaru platform. The kit uses a Rotrex C38-92 centrifugal supercharger, which features a planetary traction drive for silent, efficient operation. Jackson Racing’s design prioritizes drivability and thermal management, with a dedicated air-to-water intercooler and a bespoke intake system.

  • Type: Centrifugal (Rotrex C38-92)
  • Power Gain: Up to 280 horsepower (at the wheels on 91 octane)
  • Boost Level: 7-9 psi
  • Intercooling: Air-to-water with custom heat exchanger
  • Tuning: Includes Jackson Racing–calibrated ECUTek map; custom tuning optional
  • Installation: Straightforward; no drilling or permanent modifications
  • Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
  • Estimated Price: $4,200 – $4,800
  • Pros: Excellent thermal performance, quiet operation, comprehensive tuning support
  • Cons: Lower peak power compared to some competitors

Jackson Racing’s focus on reliability makes this kit ideal for owners who want a turn-key solution. Visit Jackson Racing for complete specs and ordering.

4. AVO Turbo World Supercharger Kit

AVO Turbo World, known in the Subaru community, offers a robust roots-type supercharger kit for the GR86. The kit features a Lysholm twin-screw blower with integrated charge cooling. Unlike many aftermarket kits, AVO includes a full intake tract with a K&N filter and heavy-duty belt system. The result is consistent boost with excellent mid-range punch. Installation is more involved than centrifugal kits, requiring bumper removal and coolant line work.

  • Type: Roots (Lysholm twin-screw)
  • Power Gain: Up to 310 horsepower at the wheels
  • Boost Level: 8-10 psi
  • Intercooling: Air-to-water with separate radiator
  • Tuning: AVO-supplied ECU flash; ECUTek tuning recommended for fine-tuning
  • Installation: Moderate difficulty; includes comprehensive manual
  • Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
  • Estimated Price: $5,200 – $5,900
  • Pros: Strong mid-range torque, high-quality components, good warranty
  • Cons: Installation complexity; may require professional fitting

For those who don’t mind a more involved project, the AVO kit delivers serious torque gains. More information can be found at AVO Turbo World.

5. GReddy Supercharger Kit

GReddy’s GR86 supercharger kit uses a centrifugal compressor from trusted manufacturer ProCharger. The kit is engineered for plug-and-play simplicity, with a cast-aluminum intake manifold and a belt-driven system that requires no oil lines (self-contained lubrication). GReddy’s calibration is conservative, focusing on longevity while still producing a meaningful power gain. It is one of the easiest supercharger kits to install on the market.

  • Type: Centrifugal (self-contained ProCharger)
  • Power Gain: Up to 290 horsepower at the wheels
  • Boost Level: 7.5-9.5 psi
  • Intercooling: Air-to-water system included
  • Tuning: GReddy ECU flash included; ECUTek upgrade available
  • Installation: Easy; most DIY mechanics can complete in a weekend
  • Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
  • Estimated Price: $4,800 – $5,400
  • Pros: Simple installation, reliable self-contained design, smooth power curve
  • Cons: Conservative tuning leaves some performance on the table

GReddy’s kit is an excellent choice for first-time supercharger owners who want a hassle-free upgrade. Details are available on the GReddy official website.

Choosing the Right Supercharger for Your Driving Style

Selecting the best kit depends on how you use your GR86. If you prioritize track performance and high-RPM power, a centrifugal kit like the Vortech or Jackson Racing provides linear boost with minimal heat issues. For street driving and maximum torque from a stoplight, the Edelbrock or AVO roots-style options deliver a visceral punch. Budget-minded builders will appreciate the GReddy kit’s pricing and ease of installation.

Regardless of the supercharger you choose, professional tuning is essential to unlock safe, reliable power. Most kits work with ECUTek or Cobb Accessport software, and a custom tune from a reputable shop ensures fuel trims and timing are optimized for your specific fuel and climate conditions.

As a final note, always check for certification (CARB EO numbers in California) and confirm that your local emissions regulations allow the installation. Many kits are offered as “off-road use only,” while others carry CARB approval for street legality.

Conclusion

Supercharging a Toyota GR86 transforms it from a fun, lightweight coupe into a genuine performance machine capable of challenging cars far above its price point. The five kits detailed here represent the best options available in 2024, spanning centrifugal and roots/twin-screw designs to suit every preference. Whether you choose the proven Vortech V-3 Si, the torque-rich Edelbrock E-Force, or the refined Jackson Racing kit, you’ll unlock a new level of driving excitement. For additional reading on GR86 forced induction tuning, consult professional resources like FT86 Club or the GR86 Forum. With the right supercharger kit, your GR86 is ready to dominate 2024 and beyond.