Does Toyota make Subaru engines?
Not for every Subaru model. In practice, Subaru primarily builds its own engines, but Toyota and Subaru have a notable joint engine program, most famously the flat-four engine used in the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ, a collaboration commonly referred to as the Toyobaru project.
How the collaboration works
The two companies maintain a strategic engineering relationship that goes beyond a single model. They share development work, technology, and some powertrain components while maintaining distinct brand identities and model lineups.
- The most visible example is the co-developed 2.0-liter and later 2.4-liter flat-four engine family used by both the Subaru BRZ and the Toyota GR86. This shared engine is a centerpiece of the Toyobaru collaboration.
- Beyond the engine, the partnership extends to joint development of performance technologies, chassis tuning, and certain drivetrain ideas to enable similar driving dynamics across both brands.
- Subaru continues to produce most of its own engines for its broader lineup, with collaboration focused on specific programs rather than a wholesale transfer of manufacturing.
In short, buyers see shared engineering in specific models, not a blanket arrangement where Toyota builds Subaru engines for the entire Subaru lineup.
Other areas of collaboration
Beyond the engine itself, Toyota and Subaru have pursued broader cooperation on safety technology, electrification, and platform development to capitalize on each company’s strengths while keeping their product lines separate.
- Joint development of powertrain and electrification technology aimed at improving efficiency and performance across future models from both brands.
- Shared research into advanced driver-assistance systems, all-wheel-drive systems, and other core technologies that influence how Subaru and Toyota vehicles perform on the road.
The collaboration is targeted and strategic, rather than a scenario where one company supplies engines for the other’s entire product range.
What this means for consumers
For consumers, the partnership explains why certain sports cars from Subaru and Toyota look and feel similar in performance, yet remain distinct in branding, tuning, and dealership experience.
- Two iconic models—the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86—share a common engine and many performance characteristics, reflecting the joint development efforts behind the Toyobaru project.
- Maintenance and parts for the shared engine family can be supported through either brand’s service network, but standard parts availability will still align with each brand’s typical supply channels.
- Future Toyota/Subaru models may incorporate shared platforms or electrification tech, offering customers improved efficiency and safety while preserving brand identity.
Overall, the collaboration yields tangible product overlaps in specific models while preserving Subaru’s independent engineering and Toyota’s broader vehicle lineup.
Summary
The short answer is nuanced: Toyota does not blanketly manufacture Subaru engines for Subaru vehicles, but the two companies have a concrete engine partnership, most prominently the shared 2.0L/2.4L flat-four engine used in the BRZ and GR86. This collaboration extends to safety, driveline, and electrification technologies, shaping future products while each brand maintains its own engine programs for most of its lineup.
