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Subaru BRZ vs Toyota 86: Which Is Better? 2022

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There is no easy answer when it comes to deciding between the Subaru BRZ vs Toyota 86. Both cars have their pros and cons, so it really depends on what you are looking for in a vehicle. If you prioritize speed and performance, then the Subaru BRZ is the better choice.

However, if you prioritize comfort and practicality, the Toyota 86 may be better for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two cars comes down to personal preference.

2022 Subaru BRZ Limited

Pros

  • Stable rear end
  • Similar power upgrades to GR86
  • The most suitable option for track days.

Cons

  • Noisier, firmer ride
  • Sharper rear-end breakaway
  • More expensive than the GR86

2022 Toyota GR86 Prenium

Pros

  • Accessible handling
  • More modern and sleek
  • Better ride

Cons

  • The look of the ducktail spoiler isn’t ideal for everyone.
  • Driftiness isn’t as lap-time-friendly.
  • The car with the least serious of the two vehicles

Subaru BRZ vs Toyota 86 Styling: front grill variation

Subaru BRZ vs Toyota 86

1. Styling: front grill variation

Both Toyota 86 vs BRZ are a perfect match because of their similar appearance. There are a few minor differences. The most noticeable is the front grille, which makes Toyota’s version a bit more assertive.

The grille design is more similar to the GR Yaris hot hatch. We can also see the LED headlights are slightly different compared to the BRZ.

For more fashion, Toyota just released the 2023 GR86 Special Edition featuring larger matt black wheels and subtle graphics on the C-pillar, a brand color called Solar Shift color, and a cute ducktail spoiler.

2. Interior: not much different

When we look at the cabins of both coupes, there isn’t much difference apart from a little different seating upholstery and name branding at the wheel (the 86 comes with GR badges, while the BRZ does not have any).

Both models feature a 7-inch digital driver’s monitor and an 8.0-inch touchscreen for infotainment. Both cars have the same interiors, from the design of the heated seats and air vents to the switchgear, hardpoints and pedals.

Are you able to fit everyone inside the rear seats? No, not in the least, unless they’re children or disabled. However, you could still fold the rear seats, install them down, and put a complete down and shoehorn spare set tires and wheels (mounted on the back) between the rear seat and the trunk.

3. Engine & Specs: Mechanically the same

The two Japanese automakers decided to replace the older 2.0L engine in favor of the latest 2.4L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder boxer engine from the earlier generation.

The new engine is rated at 228 horsepower (23 more horsepower than the prior generation) with 7,000 RPM, producing 184 pounds-feet (previously at 156 pounds) of torque at 3,700 revs. The 2022 BRZ Limited / Sport-tech we looked at here has identical specs.

As the 2023 GR86 and 2023 BRZ use identical Subaru Boxer engines, they have the same power and torque. The potent 12.5:1 compression ratio for maximum power via dual injection is the same.

The GR86 can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.1 minutes (manual) and 6.6 minutes (automatic). The BRZ can also perform similarly and will go close to each other in the drag race. This closely reviews the 2023 BRZ’s full specifications and dimensions.

In both models, power is transferred through the wheels at the rear through the manual gearbox of six speeds (standard), and an electronically controlled, six-speed automatic gearbox is available. A MacPherson-strut for the front and double-wishbone rear suspension setup is similar for both coupes.

Performance comparison Subaru BRZ

4. Performance comparison

The Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ are indeed classified as sports cars. Therefore it’s natural to conclude that they are speedy and swift. Both cars share similar performance numbers. However, they differ in terms of suspension performance.

The BRZ is slightly edged over the 86 regarding the suspension’s performance. In the underside of both vehicles is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine typically used in Porsches.

The engine is connected to a manual six-speed or automated transmission that produces 200 or 205 horsepower. The power goes directly into the wheels of the back. They are balanced due to the sporty rigid suspension.

Toyota offers customers the option of choosing the Toyota Racing Development (TRD) package, which enhances the car’s performance. On its side, Subaru can provide more control right out of the box. Brembo brakes can also assist in stopping the vehicle suddenly in an emergency.

Below is a side-by-side comparison of some key specifications; they’re identical, drawing power with the identical 2.4L DOHC engine.

Subaru BRZ

  • Engine 2.4L Subaru BOXER 4 Cylinders
  • Transmission: Standard 6-Speed Manual
  • Horsepower: 228-hp at 7700 RPM
  • Torque: 184 lb-ft at 3,700 RPM
  • 0 – 60mph in 6.1 seconds

Toyota GR86

  • Engine Engine: FA24 2.4L naturally aspirated vertically opposed boxer-four cylinders
  • Transmission: Standard 6-Speed Manual
  • Horsepower: 228 horsepower @ 7500 RPM
  • Torque: 184 lb-ft at 3,700 RPM
  • 0- 60 mph: 6.1 seconds

Below, we will discuss other performance specifications that are shared:

Valvetrain Double overhead camshafts driven by chain (DOHC) Four valves per cylinder Subaru Dual Active Valve Control System that allows for variable valve timing for the exhaust and intake camshafts.

Drivetrain: rear wheels drive, with TORSEN limited-slip differential

Transmission:

  • Standard Manual: 6-speed
  • Options: 6-speed auto with Adaptive Control manual shift mode, downshift blipping control, and steering shift paddles on the wheel.

Stability/traction controls: Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with the traction control (TCS) Multi-mode switch that includes Track mode as well as TCS Off switch.

5. Price

If you’re planning to purchase a second-hand Subaru BRZ or 86, there’s not much difference between the two in most places around the world. However, the BRZ may be a bit less expensive, depending on where you reside.

The brand-new 2022 BRZ is priced at $31k, and a 2022 Toyota 86 starts at $30k. Prices will vary based on the features you’d like to have.

6. Warranty

Each of the BRZ and 86 comes with identical warranty terms. Warranty is the primary factor, particularly when purchasing a brand-new vehicle. It allows you to keep your vehicle fresh and brand new.

For the 86 or BRZ, You will receive three years/36,000 miles of coverage (whichever is in the first) for both vehicles. The warranty is for five years or 60,000 miles and covers the powertrain.

7. Fuel Economy

Because of similar specifications for engines, both vehicles have the same performance in terms of fuel efficiency. The difference is that Subaru can achieve greater efficiency in fuel consumption from the BRZ principally due to the suspension.

Manual BRZ – features 21 mpg in city driving and 29 mpg on the highway.

Its manual version 86 – in contrast, it has 21 mpg fuel consumption in the city, and 28 mpg is the average on the highway.

Automatic models have the same ratings.

Toyota 86 gives 24/32 mpg, and Subaru BRZ gives 24/33 mpg. Subaru BRZ gives 24/33 mpg efficiency of fuel.

If you want to travel in urban areas, the 86 and BRZ are both excellent choices; However, if you’re seeking to travel more on the highway, then the BRZ is the better choice. While the difference isn’t that significant, it could make a difference over the long term.

8. Handling: a few differences exist

Based on a test drive video on the LOVE CARS!TV! Both models’ YouTube channels show distinct differences in their handling (for something that’s in English, look at this comprehensive comparison on Bembli’s YouTube channel).

The test drivers found that the Toyota GR86 is slightly slippery around corners. However, it doesn’t make you vulnerable. Subaru’s model is smoother than the other and offers security at the top. However, the 86 has a more tense feeling and a more natural pedal experience.

Trims available Toyota GR86

9. Trims available

In the US, two new 2023 Subaru BRZ flavors exist the BRZ Premium ($28,595) and BRZ Limited ($31,095). In Canada, the BRZ comes in four versions the whole:

  • The BRZ base model ($30,495).
  • BRZ with EyeSight ($32,895).
  • BRZ Sport-Tech ($35,895) along with BRZ Sports-tech that comes with EyeSight ($35,895).

Similar to The Toyota GR86, two trims are available in the US and four trims in Canada (Premium model, each with a manual or an automated transmission).

2023 will be the year of the GR86 basic ($27,900) and the GR86 Premium ($32,000) in America. North of Canada, There’s the GR86 base model with a manually operated transmission ($31,490) and an automatic transmission ($33,890), GR86 Premium with a stick shift ($34,490) and an automatic ($36,890).

Is The Subaru BRZ Or Toyota GR86 The Better Buy?

Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are the same, with only a few minor distinctions. It’s likely to be a matter of the preference of the brand when choosing between the two sports cars.

Subaru’s are usually referred to as family chariots, with all-wheel drive and the rear-wheel drive 2-seat BRZ being the most unique from the rest of the pack. This could be an exciting distinction or not-so-cool sitting next to your Mom’s Outback on the driveway to the front.

However, compared to the legendary racing-bred Subaru WRX STI, the BRZ appears to be a clean car that can handle daily driving and weekends at the track.

Toyotas come with a long and extensive racing history, as well. The fast GR86 isn’t without some experience – it’s now in good stead with the 300-hp race-ready 2023 Toyota GR Corolla. Some might lean towards the GR86’s bold style cues but it’s always the individual’s preference.

It’s the same mechanically. The styling and the brand’s loyalty make these affordable sports car, rear-wheel drive Japanese coupes apart. In fact, with a $35,000 price range, it’s impossible to choose between these models.

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