The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ are two of the most compelling affordable sports cars available today. Born from a unique collaboration between Toyota and Subaru, these sibling coupes share the same DNA but appeal to different kinds of driving enthusiasts. If you’re considering either of these performance machines, you’re likely torn between track-ready agility, driver-centric design, and raw rear-wheel-drive fun. This article dives deep into the similarities and differences to help you make the right decision.
Shared Origins, Split Destinies
Toyota and Subaru teamed up to create a car that embodies the purest form of driving enjoyment: low weight, rear-wheel drive, naturally aspirated power, and a manual gearbox. While they built the GR86 and BRZ on the same platform, both automakers applied unique tuning philosophies to give each vehicle its own personality.
Key Similarities:
- Engine: 2.4L naturally aspirated flat-four (boxer) engine
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
- Platform: Shared Toyota-Subaru chassis
- Dimensions: Virtually identical (wheelbase, length, height, width)
- Interior Layout: Nearly the same, with subtle design tweaks
- Performance: 0-60 mph in around 6.1 seconds (manual)
Design: Sharp Looks with Different Attitudes
Exterior Aesthetics
At first glance, the GR86 and BRZ look almost identical, but a closer inspection reveals subtle styling cues that reflect each brand’s design language.
| Feature | Toyota GR86 | Subaru BRZ |
|---|---|---|
| Front Fascia | Aggressive mesh grille, sharper lines | Softer edges, more refined front bumper |
| Headlight Design | Slightly more angular and assertive | Smoother, rounded profile |
| Rear Bumper Styling | Diffuser-style with blacked-out elements | Cleaner, sculpted finish |
| Spoiler Options | Available Performance Package spoiler | Standard ducktail spoiler on higher trims |
Verdict: If you’re into sharp, track-inspired aesthetics, the GR86 edges ahead. For a more mature, refined look, the BRZ is your pick.
Interior Details
While the overall layout is similar—driver-focused and minimalist—Toyota and Subaru personalize the interiors to align with their brand identities.
- GR86: Red stitching, a sportier gauge cluster, and a darker ambiance.
- BRZ: Blue stitching, brighter interior tones, and a slightly more upscale appearance.
Both offer:
- An 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Digital driver displays
- Comfortable and supportive sport seats
Performance and Handling: Small Tweaks, Big Feel
Here’s where things get interesting. Despite sharing the same powertrain and suspension geometry, the two cars feel slightly different behind the wheel.
Engine and Acceleration
Both cars use the same 2.4-liter flat-four, producing:
- 228 horsepower
- 184 lb-ft of torque
- Redline at 7,400 rpm
Performance Metrics (Manual Transmission):
| Metric | Toyota GR86 | Subaru BRZ |
|---|---|---|
| 0–60 mph | ~6.1 seconds | ~6.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 140+ mph | 140+ mph |
| Fuel Economy (mpg) | 20 city / 27 hwy | 20 city / 27 hwy |
Suspension and Ride Feel
While both cars use a MacPherson strut front and double-wishbone rear suspension, Toyota opted for a slightly stiffer suspension setup compared to the BRZ.
- GR86: Sportier, sharper cornering response, ideal for track days.
- BRZ: Slightly softer dampening, making it more forgiving for daily use.
Steering Feel:
- Nearly identical in responsiveness, though some drivers report a marginally heavier steering weight in the GR86.
Trim Levels and Pricing
Pricing and features are neck-and-neck, but key differences in trims and what comes standard might sway your choice.
| Trim | Toyota GR86 | Subaru BRZ |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price (MSRP) | ~$29,300 | ~$29,200 |
| Premium / Limited | Adds 18” wheels, ducktail spoiler, suede upholstery, heated seats | Similar features, slightly different packaging |
| Special Editions | Trueno Edition (2024): Throwback style with performance upgrades | tS Edition (2024): STI-tuned suspension, exclusive badging |
Infotainment and Tech Features
While both cars prioritize analog driving experiences over luxury, they still come with a good range of tech.
Shared Features:
- 8-inch infotainment screen
- 6-speaker audio system (upgraded to 8 speakers in higher trims)
- Dual USB ports
- Bluetooth connectivity
Safety Tech:
- Both offer Subaru’s EyeSight system on automatic versions, including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Warning
- Pre-Collision Braking
Manual variants are still about raw driving, with minimal safety nannies interfering.
Customization and Aftermarket Support
Both cars are favorites among tuners. From exhaust kits to coilovers, turbochargers, and body kits, the aftermarket world loves these two coupes.
- GR86: Toyota Racing Development (TRD) parts are widely available.
- BRZ: Subaru’s STI parts division also supports this platform.
Whether you want to turn your coupe into a track monster or a show car, you’ll have endless options for both.
Daily Usability
Despite being sports cars, the GR86 and BRZ are impressively livable.
| Feature | Toyota GR86 & Subaru BRZ |
|---|---|
| Trunk Capacity | 6.3 cu-ft (fits 2 carry-on suitcases) |
| Rear Seats | Technically 2+2, realistically tiny |
| Ride Quality | Firm but livable |
| Noise Insulation | Moderate wind/engine noise |
These cars aren’t meant to haul the family—but for a solo driver or couple who enjoys spirited drives, they’re a perfect fit.
Ownership Costs and Reliability
Toyota and Subaru are both known for reliability, and early data shows solid dependability for the new-gen GR86 and BRZ.
Estimated Ownership Costs (5 Years):
- Fuel: ~$7,000
- Insurance: ~$6,000
- Maintenance/Repairs: ~$3,500–$5,000
- Depreciation: ~30–35%
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Toyota GR86 if:
- You want the stiffer, sharper handling setup
- You’re into track days or spirited mountain runs
- You prefer Toyota’s bolder styling and heritage
Choose the Subaru BRZ if:
- You’ll drive the car daily and prefer comfort over edge
- You want slightly more refined suspension tuning
- You like the more understated design and Subaru branding
Final Thoughts
The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ are two sides of the same high-revving coin. Choosing between them comes down to how you plan to use the car and what kind of emotional connection you want with it.
Both are fantastic sports cars in their own right, delivering raw, analog joy in a digital age. And regardless of which you choose, you’re getting one of the best driver’s cars under $35,000—period.
So, Toyota GR86 or Subaru BRZ?
Either way, your garage is about to get a lot more fun.
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