The automotive industry is filled with collaborations that bring out the best in different brands, but few have captured the spirit of driving enthusiasts as well as the partnership between Subaru and Toyota. This collaboration gave birth to two nearly identical sports cars—the Subaru BRZ and the Toyota GR86. These vehicles have become favorites among car enthusiasts for their thrilling driving experience, affordability, and adherence to the classic sports car formula: lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, and naturally aspirated engines.
The Origins of a Dynamic Duo
The story of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 begins with a shared vision. Both Subaru and Toyota wanted to create a sports car that harkened back to the basics of driving pleasure, something that had been somewhat lost in the age of turbocharging, hybridization, and electronic driving aids. The idea was to create a car that was simple, fun, and affordable, yet offered enough performance to satisfy serious drivers.
Toyota, known for its engineering prowess and extensive history in motorsports, teamed up with Subaru, a brand renowned for its boxer engines and all-wheel-drive systems. The collaboration was announced in the late 2000s, and the result was a pair of sports cars that shared almost everything under the skin, from the platform to the engine, yet were tailored to fit the distinct identities of their respective brands.
Design Philosophy: A Return to Simplicity
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are often praised for their design, which emphasizes simplicity and function over flamboyance. This philosophy is evident in every aspect of the cars, from their exterior styling to their mechanical layout.
Exterior Design
The BRZ and GR86 are characterized by their low-slung, wide stance, which immediately signals their sports car intentions. The long hood, short overhangs, and sleek roofline contribute to a silhouette that is both aerodynamic and aesthetically pleasing. Both cars sport aggressive front fascias with sharp headlights and large air intakes, giving them a purposeful look.
Subaru and Toyota have done an excellent job of differentiating the two cars despite their shared underpinnings. The BRZ features a slightly more refined design, with smoother lines and a front grille that is reminiscent of other Subaru models. On the other hand, the GR86 has a more aggressive appearance, with a larger grille and more pronounced body lines, reflecting Toyota’s sporty character.
Interior Design
Inside, the focus on simplicity and driver engagement continues. The cabins of both cars are designed to keep the driver at the center of the experience. The dashboard is low and uncluttered, providing excellent visibility, while the controls are intuitive and within easy reach. The seats are supportive, designed to hold the driver and passenger in place during spirited driving.
Materials used in the interior are of high quality, but the emphasis is clearly on function rather than luxury. The BRZ and GR86 feature a mix of soft-touch surfaces, leather, and Alcantara, with contrast stitching that adds a touch of sophistication. Both cars come with a modern infotainment system, though it is deliberately minimalist to avoid distracting the driver from the road.
The Heart of the Matter: The Boxer Engine
At the core of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 is the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four engine, a hallmark of Subaru’s engineering expertise. This boxer engine design, where the cylinders are horizontally opposed, gives the cars a lower center of gravity, which significantly improves handling and stability.
Performance Characteristics
The 2.4-liter engine in the BRZ and GR86 produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might not seem impressive compared to turbocharged rivals, the magic of these cars lies in their power delivery and how it complements the lightweight chassis. The engine revs smoothly and eagerly, delivering power in a linear fashion that is both predictable and engaging. This setup encourages drivers to explore the upper limits of the rev range, where the engine really comes alive.
The flat-four engine’s layout also contributes to the car’s distinctive exhaust note, a growl that is both unique and satisfying to the ears of driving enthusiasts. Moreover, the absence of turbocharging means there is no lag, giving the driver immediate response to throttle inputs.
Transmission Options
Both the BRZ and GR86 are available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. The manual transmission is the purist’s choice, offering a direct connection to the car and a more immersive driving experience. The shifts are crisp, with a short throw that feels precise and mechanical, further enhancing the driver’s sense of control.
The automatic transmission, while not as engaging as the manual, is no slouch either. It features paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, allowing the driver to manually select gears when desired. The automatic also comes with adaptive shift logic that learns the driver’s habits and adjusts shift timing accordingly, making it a more intelligent choice for those who prefer not to operate a manual gearbox.
Chassis and Handling: The Perfect Balance
The true brilliance of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 lies in their chassis and handling. Both cars are built on a lightweight platform with a low center of gravity, which is key to their dynamic prowess.
Suspension Setup
The suspension setup of the BRZ and GR86 is designed to deliver a perfect balance between ride comfort and handling performance. Up front, both cars feature a MacPherson strut design, while the rear uses a double-wishbone setup. This combination allows the cars to remain composed over uneven surfaces while providing sharp, responsive handling during spirited driving.
Both Subaru and Toyota have worked extensively on tuning the suspension to ensure that the cars are agile and responsive. The steering is quick and communicative, offering excellent feedback to the driver, which is essential for maintaining control at high speeds. The chassis, combined with the light weight of the cars (just under 2,900 pounds), results in a nimble driving experience that is hard to match in this segment.
Braking System
Stopping power is provided by ventilated disc brakes on all four corners, which offer strong and consistent performance. The brake pedal feel is firm and progressive, giving the driver confidence during aggressive braking maneuvers. Both cars come equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) as standard, further enhancing safety and control.
The Driving Experience: A Pure Connection
Driving the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 is an experience that is hard to put into words. These cars offer a level of driver engagement that is rare in today’s market, especially at their price point.
Engagement and Feedback
Every aspect of the BRZ and GR86 is designed to provide feedback to the driver. The steering wheel offers a direct connection to the road, transmitting information about the surface and grip levels with precision. The suspension, while compliant enough for daily driving, is tuned to keep the driver informed about the car’s movements, allowing for precise control during spirited driving.
The manual transmission, with its short, precise throws, further enhances this connection. Each shift is a reminder of the mechanical nature of the car, a contrast to the increasingly digital and automated nature of modern vehicles. The naturally aspirated engine, with its linear power delivery and eagerness to rev, rewards drivers who enjoy working for their speed.
Cornering and Balance
One of the most satisfying aspects of driving the BRZ and GR86 is their behavior in corners. Thanks to the low center of gravity and balanced chassis, these cars remain flat and composed even during aggressive cornering. The rear-wheel-drive layout allows for controlled oversteer, making the cars playful yet predictable at the limit.
The limited-slip differential, standard on both models, ensures that power is effectively distributed to the wheels with the most grip, enhancing cornering performance. Whether on a tight, twisty mountain road or a racetrack, the BRZ and GR86 shine, offering a driving experience that is pure and unfiltered.
Customization and Aftermarket Potential
One of the appeals of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 is their potential for customization. Both cars have become popular platforms for aftermarket modifications, thanks to their simple mechanical layout and strong enthusiast community.
Performance Upgrades
Owners looking to enhance the performance of their BRZ or GR86 have a wide range of options. Common upgrades include aftermarket exhaust systems, which not only improve the sound of the engine but also free up a few extra horsepower. Intake systems and performance tunes are also popular, allowing the engine to breathe more freely and deliver more power.
For those who frequent the track, suspension upgrades such as coilovers and sway bars can further sharpen the handling characteristics of the cars. Upgraded brake pads and rotors are also common modifications, providing increased stopping power and durability during extended track sessions.
Aesthetic Modifications
In addition to performance upgrades, the BRZ and GR86 also lend themselves well to aesthetic modifications. The aftermarket offers a wide range of body kits, spoilers, and wheels that allow owners to personalize the look of their cars. Interior upgrades, such as aftermarket seats, steering wheels, and shift knobs, further enhance the driving experience.
Tuning Community
The BRZ and GR86 have a dedicated and passionate tuning community, which has resulted in a wealth of knowledge and resources for owners looking to modify their cars. Online forums, social media groups, and local car clubs provide a platform for enthusiasts to share their experiences, tips, and advice on getting the most out of their vehicles.
The Legacy of Affordable Sports Cars
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 have earned a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts, largely because they represent a return to the roots of what makes driving fun. In an era where cars are becoming increasingly complex and automated, the BRZ and GR86 offer a refreshing simplicity that is both nostalgic and exhilarating.
A Nod to the Past
These cars are often compared to iconic sports cars of the past, such as the Toyota AE86, Mazda MX-5 Miata, and Nissan 240SX. Like their predecessors, the BRZ and GR86 prioritize driving enjoyment over outright speed, offering a pure and unfiltered experience that is increasingly rare in modern automobiles.
A Bright Future
The success of the BRZ and GR86 has shown that there is still a strong demand for affordable, driver-focused sports cars. As automotive technology continues to evolve, it is heartening to see that cars like the BRZ and GR86 still have a place in the market. These cars serve as a reminder that driving can be more than just transportation—it can be an art form, a hobby, and a source of joy.
Ownership Experience: Living with the BRZ and GR86
Owning a Subaru BRZ or Toyota GR86 is more than just having a mode of transportation; it’s about being part of a community of like-minded enthusiasts who share a passion for driving.
Daily Usability
Despite their performance credentials, both the BRZ and GR86 are surprisingly practical for daily use. The ride, while firm, is comfortable enough for commuting, and the compact size of the cars makes them easy to maneuver in urban environments. Fuel economy is respectable for a sports car, with the BRZ and GR86 achieving around 24-28 miles per gallon in combined driving.
The cabins, though focused on the driver, are well-equipped with modern amenities. Both cars come with a touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for easy integration with smartphones. The trunks, though not large, offer enough space for a weekend’s worth of luggage, and the rear seats can be folded down to accommodate larger items.
Cost of Ownership
One of the key selling points of the BRZ and GR86 is their affordability, not just in terms of purchase price but also in terms of running costs. Both cars are relatively inexpensive to maintain, with routine services such as oil changes and brake pad replacements being straightforward and affordable. The naturally aspirated engine is less complex than many modern turbocharged units, reducing the likelihood of expensive repairs.
Insurance costs for the BRZ and GR86 are generally reasonable, especially compared to higher-powered sports cars. This makes them an attractive option for younger drivers or those looking to keep their running costs low.
Resale Value
Both the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 have proven to hold their value well in the used car market. The strong demand for these cars, combined with their reputation for reliability and driving enjoyment, means that they are sought after by enthusiasts even after several years of ownership. This strong resale value further enhances the overall value proposition of the BRZ and GR86.
Model Comparisons: Subaru BRZ vs. Toyota GR86
While the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are nearly identical mechanically, there are subtle differences that may influence a buyer’s decision.
Driving Dynamics
Both cars offer a similar driving experience, but some enthusiasts claim that the BRZ has a slightly softer suspension setup compared to the GR86. This makes the BRZ marginally more comfortable on rough roads, while the GR86 may feel a bit sharper on a racetrack. However, these differences are minor, and most drivers would be hard-pressed to notice them during regular driving.
Brand Identity
For some buyers, the choice between the BRZ and GR86 may come down to brand preference. Subaru’s reputation for durability and its association with rallying might appeal to those who value robustness and off-road heritage. On the other hand, Toyota’s extensive history in motorsports, including its legendary Supra and AE86 models, might attract buyers who are drawn to a more traditional sports car pedigree.
Aesthetics and Features
The BRZ and GR86 are styled differently, with each car reflecting its brand’s design language. The BRZ is generally considered to have a more elegant appearance, with smoother lines and a more understated front grille. The GR86, by contrast, is more aggressive in its design, with a larger grille and more pronounced body lines.
In terms of features, both cars are similarly equipped, though there may be slight variations in standard equipment depending on the market. Some markets may offer exclusive paint colors or trim options for one model but not the other.
Future Prospects: The Evolution of the BRZ and GR86
As the automotive industry moves towards electrification and autonomous driving, the future of traditional sports cars like the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 is uncertain. However, there is reason to believe that these cars, or at least the principles they embody, will continue to have a place in the market.
Potential for Electrification
There has been speculation about the possibility of future iterations of the BRZ and GR86 incorporating electrification, whether through hybrid systems or full electric powertrains. While this would represent a significant shift from the current formula, it could allow these cars to remain relevant in an increasingly regulated automotive landscape. Hybridization could also enhance performance, offering instant torque while preserving the lightweight, balanced nature of the cars.
Commitment to Driving Pleasure
Both Subaru and Toyota have expressed their commitment to keeping the BRZ and GR86 driver-focused, even as the industry evolves. Future models may incorporate new technologies, but the core philosophy of these cars—lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, and engaging—will likely remain unchanged. This commitment ensures that there will continue to be options for enthusiasts who value the art of driving.
Common Issues and Reliability
Owners of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 often praise the cars for their reliability, but like any vehicle, they are not without their common issues.
Known Problems
One of the most frequently reported issues with earlier models of the BRZ and GR86 is related to the valve springs. Some vehicles experienced valve spring failure, which could lead to engine damage if not addressed. However, this issue has been largely resolved in newer models.
Another common concern is the tendency for the stock tires to wear quickly. The BRZ and GR86 come with performance-oriented tires from the factory, which offer excellent grip but may have a shorter lifespan than more conservative tire options. Some owners opt to replace the tires with more durable alternatives if they prioritize longevity over maximum performance.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance is key to keeping the BRZ and GR86 running smoothly. Owners should ensure that oil changes are performed at the recommended intervals, as the boxer engine’s design makes it particularly sensitive to oil quality. It is also important to keep an eye on the condition of the tires and brakes, especially if the car is driven aggressively or used for track days.
For those who modify their BRZ or GR86, it’s important to remember that aftermarket parts can sometimes lead to increased wear on other components. For example, lowering the car or installing stiffer suspension components can put additional strain on the chassis and suspension bushings, potentially leading to premature wear. Regular inspections and maintenance are recommended for modified vehicles.
The Role of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 in Motorsports
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 have made a significant impact in the world of motorsports, particularly in grassroots and amateur racing. These cars are popular choices for track days, autocross, and time attack events due to their balance, agility, and affordability.
Track Performance
On the track, the BRZ and GR86 excel in handling-focused events. Their lightweight chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout make them nimble and responsive, allowing drivers to push the limits with confidence. While they may not have the outright speed of more powerful sports cars, their cornering ability and overall balance often allow them to punch above their weight in competitive settings.
Many owners choose to modify their BRZ or GR86 for track use, with common upgrades including suspension tuning, brake enhancements, and lightweight wheels. These modifications, combined with the inherent capabilities of the cars, make them formidable contenders in various racing series.
Motorsports Legacy
The BRZ and GR86 have also made their mark in professional motorsports. Both cars have been campaigned in various racing series around the world, including the Global MX-5 Cup, Super GT, and the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. Their success in these events has helped to build a strong reputation for the platform, further solidifying their status as modern sports car icons.
FAQs
1. Are the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 the same car?
While the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 share the same platform, engine, and many components, they are marketed as separate models by their respective brands. There are subtle differences in design, suspension tuning, and branding, but they are fundamentally very similar.
2. Which is better, the Subaru BRZ or Toyota GR86?
Choosing between the BRZ and GR86 often comes down to personal preference, as the differences between them are minimal. Some drivers prefer the slightly softer suspension of the BRZ, while others might lean towards the GR86’s more aggressive design and brand heritage.
3. How fast are the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86?
The BRZ and GR86 are not designed to be the fastest cars in a straight line, but they are quick enough to be fun. Both cars can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.1 seconds, thanks to their lightweight design and balanced power output.
4. Are the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 good for daily driving?
Yes, both the BRZ and GR86 are practical enough for daily driving, offering decent fuel economy, comfortable interiors, and modern amenities. However, their firm suspension and limited cargo space may not be ideal for everyone.
5. How reliable are the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86?
Both cars are generally reliable, with the boxer engine being well-proven over many years. However, like any sports car, they require regular maintenance to ensure longevity, especially if driven hard.
6. What is the cost of ownership for a Subaru BRZ or Toyota GR86?
The cost of ownership for the BRZ and GR86 is relatively low for a sports car. Maintenance is straightforward, insurance costs are reasonable, and both cars tend to hold their value well.
7. Can the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 be modified?
Yes, the BRZ and GR86 are popular platforms for modifications. Owners often upgrade suspension components, exhaust systems, and wheels to enhance performance or customize the appearance of their cars.
8. Will there be future versions of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86?
While the automotive industry is shifting towards electrification, there is hope that future versions of the BRZ and GR86 will continue to be offered, possibly with hybrid or electric powertrains. Both Subaru and Toyota have expressed a commitment to maintaining driver-focused cars in their lineups.
