The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are two iconic sports cars that have garnered a loyal following since their introduction. Often praised for their affordability, handling, and precision engineering, these rear-wheel-drive coupes offer a thrilling driving experience at an accessible price point. The BRZ and GR86 share a common platform and have many similarities, yet there are subtle differences that make each model unique. In this article, we’ll explore the history, design, performance, and impact of both vehicles.
The Genesis of the BRZ and GR86
The story of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 begins in the early 2000s when Toyota sought to revive its performance car image with a small, affordable sports car. In 2008, Toyota and Subaru began a collaboration that would lead to the creation of the “Toyobaru” coupe. Toyota approached Subaru to co-develop a new sports car, which would be sold as a Toyota model in certain markets and as a Subaru model in others. The result was the 2012 Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 (known in North America as the Scion FR-S before the brand was discontinued).
The collaboration made sense for both companies. Subaru had the technical expertise and resources to design the car’s chassis, while Toyota brought its vast experience in engineering, manufacturing, and marketing. Both brands shared a vision of creating a lightweight, fun-to-drive car with a focus on handling rather than outright power. The BRZ and 86 were designed to offer an engaging driving experience without the need for excessive horsepower, making them accessible to driving enthusiasts at a more affordable price than higher-end sports cars.
The Philosophy Behind the BRZ and GR86
At the heart of the BRZ and GR86’s design is the concept of “driving pleasure.” Both cars focus on delivering an agile, responsive driving experience through their lightweight construction and balanced chassis. The key to this philosophy is the low center of gravity. Subaru’s expertise in creating boxer engines, which have a horizontally opposed layout, was crucial to achieving this goal. A lower engine placement allows for better weight distribution, improving the car’s balance and handling.
Another important aspect of the BRZ and GR86 is their focus on driver involvement. These cars are not about overwhelming speed or straight-line performance but about creating an engaging experience through precise steering, responsive handling, and a direct connection between the car and the driver. This makes the BRZ and GR86 particularly appealing to driving purists who want to feel in control of the car at all times.
Design and Styling
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 share a nearly identical design, with only subtle differences in styling elements. Both cars have a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette with a low stance that enhances their sporty appearance. The front end features sharp headlights and a wide grille, giving the cars an aggressive and modern look. The body is sculpted to reduce drag and improve stability at high speeds.
At the rear, both the BRZ and GR86 feature a ducktail-style spoiler, which aids aerodynamics and adds a sporty touch. While the overall design of both cars is quite similar, the Toyota GR86 has a slightly different front bumper design, and the Subaru BRZ features its unique lighting elements, such as LED headlights and tail lights.
The interior of the BRZ and GR86 is minimalist, focusing on functionality and the driving experience. The dashboard layout is simple and intuitive, with large, easily readable gauges. Both cars feature a touchscreen infotainment system, though the software and interface may differ slightly between the two. The seats in both models are designed to keep the driver securely in place during spirited driving, with the option of upgraded sports seats in higher trims.
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Key Box: Similarities and Differences in Styling
- Similarities: Both vehicles feature a similar low, wide stance, sculpted body, and rear-wheel-drive proportions.
- Differences: The GR86 has a slightly more aggressive front bumper, while the BRZ offers unique LED lighting elements.
- Overall Appeal: Both cars’ design is modern and sporty, with features to optimize aerodynamic efficiency and high-speed stability.
At the rear, both the BRZ and GR86 feature a ducktail-style spoiler, which aids aerodynamics and adds a sporty touch. While the overall design of both cars is quite similar, the Toyota GR86 has a slightly different front bumper design, and the Subaru BRZ features its unique lighting elements, such as LED headlights and tail lights.
The interior of the BRZ and GR86 is minimalist, focusing on functionality and the driving experience. The dashboard layout is simple and intuitive, with large, easily readable gauges. Both cars feature a touchscreen infotainment system, though the software and interface may differ slightly between the two. The seats in both models are designed to keep the driver securely in place during spirited driving, with the option of upgraded sports seats in higher trims.
Key Box: Performance and Powertrain Upgrades
- Engine Upgrade: Both the BRZ and GR86 now feature a 2.4-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, replacing the previous 2.0-liter unit.
- Power Output: The 2.4-liter engine delivers 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, providing significantly more performance than earlier models.
- Transmission Options: The cars offer either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, with the manual preferred by driving enthusiasts for a more engaged experience.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission, with paddle shifters available for the automatic version. The manual transmission is the preferred choice for driving enthusiasts, as it allows for more precise control over gear selection, while the automatic provides convenience for those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience.
One of the key selling points of the BRZ and GR86 is their rear-wheel-drive layout. This setup allows for optimal weight distribution, contributing to the cars’ handling characteristics. The low center of gravity, combined with the rear-wheel-drive setup, gives the BRZ and GR86 exceptional cornering ability, making them feel light and responsive on twisty roads and tracks.
Both cars are equipped with a fully independent suspension system, which further enhances their handling prowess. The suspension is tuned to strike a balance between comfort and performance, making the cars equally at home on daily commutes as they are on winding mountain roads or at the race track. The car’s responsive steering adds to the driving experience, providing excellent feedback and precision.
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Key Box: Driver Assistance Technologies
- Safety Features: Both models include standard safety technologies such as lane-departure warning, pre-collision braking, and adaptive cruise control.
- Infotainment: Both vehicles come with touchscreen infotainment systems offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Driving Focus: Despite the tech, both models maintain a focus on the driving experience, keeping distractions to a minimum.
In addition, both models come with a suite of driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking, depending on the trim level. These features provide an added layer of safety and convenience, especially for those who plan to use their BRZ or GR86 as a daily driver.
However, the emphasis in both models remains squarely on the driving experience, with the interior design focusing on simplicity and ease of use. The lack of excessive tech features and distractions means that drivers can fully engage with the car without being overwhelmed by unnecessary gadgets.
Subaru BRZ vs. Toyota GR86: Key Differences
While the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are nearly identical in terms of performance and design, there are a few key differences between the two models. These differences primarily relate to styling, features, and marketing approaches.
Key Box: Comparative Highlights
- Styling: The Toyota GR86 has a more aggressive front bumper design, while the BRZ has unique rear lighting and slight styling differences.
- Interior: The BRZ generally offers more premium materials and upgraded features in higher trims, while the GR86 is a bit more utilitarian in its approach.
- Marketing Focus: Toyota markets the GR86 as a performance-first vehicle, whereas Subaru emphasizes the BRZ’s versatility and everyday usability.
- Styling: The exterior design of the two cars is nearly identical, with the primary difference being the front-end design. The Toyota GR86 has a slightly different front bumper, which gives it a more aggressive look. The Subaru BRZ, on the other hand, features unique lighting elements and a slightly different rear end design.
- Interior: While the interior layout is very similar, the Subaru BRZ offers a more premium feel with higher-quality materials in some trims. The Toyota GR86 tends to have a more utilitarian interior, with a focus on simplicity and practicality.
- Marketing: Subaru markets the BRZ as a more refined and versatile sports car, while Toyota focuses on the GR86’s performance-oriented nature. This results in slightly different marketing strategies, with Toyota emphasizing the GR86’s track-ready potential and Subaru highlighting the BRZ’s everyday usability.
- Trim Levels: Both cars offer similar trim levels, but the Subaru BRZ comes with a more extensive range of available features in its higher trims, including a more advanced infotainment system and additional comfort features.
Driving Experience
Both the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are exceptional in terms of driving dynamics. Their lightweight construction and rear-wheel-drive layout contribute to a fun, engaging experience behind the wheel. Whether on a winding mountain road or a racetrack, the BRZ and GR86 deliver excellent handling, precise steering, and a direct connection between the driver and the road.
Key Box: Handling Characteristics
- Lightweight Design: Both vehicles are incredibly light, contributing to their nimble and agile handling.
- Rear-Wheel-Drive Layout: Both cars excel in cornering and stability, making them ideal for spirited driving and track use.
- Suspension and Steering: The suspension and steering systems are finely tuned to offer excellent feedback and control, enhancing the driving experience.
Pricing and Value
One of the biggest appeals of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 is their affordability. Both cars are priced competitively in the sports car market, making them accessible to a wider audience. Despite their relatively low price, both vehicles offer exceptional performance and a level of driving enjoyment that rivals more expensive sports cars.
Key Box: Affordability and Value
- Pricing: Both models start in the low $30,000 range, with higher trims nearing $35,000.
- Value Proposition: For enthusiasts looking for an affordable, engaging sports car, the BRZ and GR86 offer remarkable performance at a competitive price.
The starting price for both models is typically in the low $30,000 range, with higher trims pushing the price closer to $35,000 or more. This makes the BRZ and GR86 a great value for anyone looking for a fun-to-drive, rear-wheel-drive sports car without breaking the bank.
Performance and Powertrain
Both the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are powered by a 2.4-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder boxer engine, which is a significant upgrade over the previous generation’s 2.0-liter engine. This engine produces around 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, offering a significant increase in power compared to the earlier models. This increase in performance, combined with the lightweight chassis, gives the BRZ and GR86 a thrilling, nimble feel on the road.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission, with paddle shifters available for the automatic version. The manual transmission is the preferred choice for driving enthusiasts, as it allows for more precise control over gear selection, while the automatic provides convenience for those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience.
One of the key selling points of the BRZ and GR86 is their rear-wheel-drive layout. This setup allows for optimal weight distribution, contributing to the cars’ handling characteristics. The low center of gravity, combined with the rear-wheel-drive setup, gives the BRZ and GR86 exceptional cornering ability, making them feel light and responsive on twisty roads and tracks.
Both cars are equipped with a fully independent suspension system, which further enhances their handling prowess. The suspension is tuned to strike a balance between comfort and performance, making the cars equally at home on daily commutes as they are on winding mountain roads or at the race track. The car’s responsive steering adds to the driving experience, providing excellent feedback and precision.
Technology and Features
While the primary focus of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 is driving performance, both cars come equipped with modern technology and features to enhance the driving experience and provide convenience. The infotainment system in both cars offers features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing drivers to stay connected while on the road.
In addition, both models come with a suite of driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking, depending on the trim level. These features provide an added layer of safety and convenience, especially for those who plan to use their BRZ or GR86 as a daily driver.
However, the emphasis in both models remains squarely on the driving experience, with the interior design focusing on simplicity and ease of use. The lack of excessive tech features and distractions means that drivers can fully engage with the car without being overwhelmed by unnecessary gadgets.
Subaru BRZ vs. Toyota GR86: Key Differences
While the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are nearly identical in terms of performance and design, there are a few key differences between the two models. These differences primarily relate to styling, features, and marketing approaches.
- Styling: The exterior design of the two cars is nearly identical, with the primary difference being the front-end design. The Toyota GR86 has a slightly different front bumper, which gives it a more aggressive look. The Subaru BRZ, on the other hand, features unique lighting elements and a slightly different rear end design.
- Interior: While the interior layout is very similar, the Subaru BRZ offers a more premium feel with higher-quality materials in some trims. The Toyota GR86 tends to have a more utilitarian interior, with a focus on simplicity and practicality.
- Marketing: Subaru markets the BRZ as a more refined and versatile sports car, while Toyota focuses on the GR86’s performance-oriented nature. This results in slightly different marketing strategies, with Toyota emphasizing the GR86’s track-ready potential and Subaru highlighting the BRZ’s everyday usability.
- Trim Levels: Both cars offer similar trim levels, but the Subaru BRZ comes with a more extensive range of available features in its higher trims, including a more advanced infotainment system and additional comfort features.
Driving Experience
Both the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are exceptional in terms of driving dynamics. Their lightweight construction and rear-wheel-drive layout contribute to a fun, engaging experience behind the wheel. Whether on a winding mountain road or a racetrack, the BRZ and GR86 deliver excellent handling, precise steering, and a direct connection between the driver and the road.
The suspension in both cars is well-tuned for a balance between comfort and performance, making them suitable for daily driving while still providing the performance needed for track days. The 2.4-liter boxer engine delivers sufficient power for a thrilling experience, without overwhelming the car’s handling capabilities.
For driving purists, the manual transmission option in both cars is a major draw. The precise shifter and engaging clutch make every gear change a joy, while the six-speed automatic is a great option for those who want a more relaxed driving experience.
Conclusion
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are fantastic examples of what a well-engineered, affordable sports car should be. With their focus on driving pleasure, balanced chassis, and lightweight construction, these cars offer an unparalleled driving experience at a price point that is accessible to many enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned driving purist or a newcomer to the world of performance cars, both the BRZ and GR86 deliver a thrilling and rewarding experience.
While there are minor differences between the two, both cars are excellent choices for those seeking a pure driving experience. The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 stand as testament to the enduring appeal of affordable, well-designed sports cars, and they will undoubtedly continue to captivate driving enthusiasts for years to come.