Is the Toyota GT86 the same as the Subaru BRZ?
The short answer is yes: the Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ are essentially the same lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe born from a joint Toyota–Subaru project. Branding and styling cues set them apart, and Toyota later rebranded its latest version as the GR86, while Subaru kept BRZ. Mechanically, they share core architecture and most engineering, with only minor differences in tuning and features across generations and markets.
Shared origins and evolution
In the early 2010s, Toyota and Subaru formalized a collaboration to create a small, affordable RWD sports coupe. The duo launched the car under different badges: Toyota GT86 (and later the 86 in some markets) and Subaru BRZ. In the United States, it also appeared as the Scion FR-S for a few model years before the Scion brand was discontinued and the car returned to Toyota’s lineup as the 86 and later the GR86.
Branding and positioning
Brand identity drove several styling and feature decisions, even though the mechanicals were largely shared. The Toyota version eventually adopted the GR86 name to align with Toyota’s modern performance family, while Subaru retained the BRZ badge. This branding approach allowed both marques to offer a similar driving experience under distinct identities.
The following section outlines the core similarities that have defined the cars across generations:
- Shared platform and chassis proportions designed for balanced handling and a lightweight feel
- Flat-four boxer engine lineage (notably the 2.0-liter FA20 in the original generation)
- Availability of manual transmissions, with automatic options in various markets
- Rear-wheel-drive configuration focused on driver engagement
- Comparable dimensions and curb weight within the same generation window
In short, the fundamental engineering and driving ethos remained consistent across brands and generations, emphasizing a purist sports-coupe experience.
Where they diverge
While the core car is shared, branding, styling, and some equipment differ to fit each automaker’s lineup and market strategy. The main distinctions include:
- Branding and naming conventions (GT86/86 historically for Toyota; BRZ for Subaru; Scion FR-S in the US market before the brand was retired; more recently GR86 for Toyota)
- Exterior styling cues such as headlights, grilles, and taillights that align with each brand’s design language
- Interior trim, materials, and standard equipment packages that vary by market and model year
- Powertrain evolution in the latest generation (Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ now share a 2.4-liter engine producing around 228 horsepower, with variations in tuning and available trims)
- Market-specific features and option availability, including transmission choices and infotainment options
Overall, the differences are largely cosmetic and branding-related, with the fundamental driving experience remaining very similar because the underlying chassis and powertrains are shared.
Current status and naming in 2025
As of the mid-2020s, Toyota markets its version as the GR86, and Subaru sells the BRZ. The classic GT86 name has largely fallen out of common use outside of historical references or certain regional markets. The current generation emphasizes a 2.4-liter engine (FA24) and around 228 horsepower, maintaining the same driving appeal that made the original collaboration popular. Both cars offer a manual transmission in many markets and are celebrated for their balanced handling and driver-centric dynamics rather than raw power alone.
Summary
The Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ are fundamentally the same vehicle born from a joint development effort. They share architecture, engines, and chassis philosophy, with branding, styling, and feature packages differentiating them. The latest generation lives on as the Toyota GR86 and the Subaru BRZ, both utilizing a 2.4-liter engine to deliver similar performance. If you’re shopping, focus on the trim and branding you prefer, as the core experience is strikingly similar.
