What engine is in a Toyota 86?
The Toyota 86 uses a boxer four-cylinder engine. The first generation (2012–2021) used a 2.0-liter FA20D, while the current GR86 (2022–present) uses a 2.4-liter FA24D.
Engine evolution of the Toyota 86
Since its debut, the 86 has shared a compact, front-engine layout with Subaru, featuring a horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder core. The powertrain shifted from a 2.0-liter setup in the earlier cars to a larger 2.4-liter unit in the latest GR86, boosting horsepower and torque while preserving low-weight, balanced handling.
- Engine code: FA20D (2.0 L) for early models
- Layout: Horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 16 valves
- Induction: Naturally aspirated with Toyota’s D-4S direct/port injection in many markets
- Power (approximate): ~205 hp in US-spec early models
- Torque (approximate): ~156 lb-ft (212 Nm)
- Redline: Around 7,000 rpm
- Output characteristics: Rev‑happy, lightweight feel suitable for a balanced rear‑drive sports car
The FA20D powered the original 86 with brisk mid-range response and a lively personality, while remaining naturally aspirated and compact to keep the car’s nimble handling intact.
Current generation GR86 engine details
The GR86 updated the powertrain with a larger displacement to improve low- and mid-range torque, while maintaining a lightweight, naturally aspirated design shared with its Subaru counterpart.
- Engine code: FA24D (2.4 L)
- Displacement: 2,387 cc
- Layout: Horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 16 valves
- Induction: Naturally aspirated
- Power: 228 hp (170 kW) at around 7,000 rpm
- Torque: 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) available across mid-range
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
- Character: More front-to-mid torque with retained rev-happy ethos for spirited driving
In the GR86, the 2.4-liter boxer engine represents a meaningful upgrade over the 2.0-liter unit, delivering stronger daily usability and more flexible performance without compromising the car’s light weight and balanced handling.
Notes on market variants and heritage
Across regions, the Toyota 86 shares its engine family with the Subaru BRZ, reflecting the joint development basis of the two sports coupes. While the 2.0-liter FA20D powers the earlier 86 models, the more recent GR86 models use the 2.4-liter FA24D, aligning with updates to emissions and performance standards in various markets.
Summary
In essence, the Toyota 86 has run two main engine generations: a 2.0-liter boxer four (FA20D) for the original cars and a 2.4-liter boxer four (FA24D) for the current GR86. Both configurations are naturally aspirated, designed to keep the car lightweight and engaging to drive, with the newer engine delivering more torque and power for everyday usability and spirited on-road performance.
What engine does the Toyota 86 use?
2.0L boxer engine with D-4S direct injection with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Do BRZ and 86 have the same engine?
The Subaru BRZ is a bit heavier with its base curb weight of 2,815 pounds. So what motivates each sports car? Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ engine specs are a tie in totality: Both models use a 2.4-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine that makes 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.
Is the GR86 engine a Subaru engine?
Yes, the Toyota GR86 has a Subaru engine; it uses a 2.4-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder boxer engine, which is shared with the Subaru BRZ. This collaboration means the GR86 is equipped with Subaru's engine technology, though the cars have distinct styling, suspension tuning, and badging.
- Shared platform and engine: The GR86 and BRZ are a result of a collaboration between Toyota and Subaru and share the same engine, as well as the main platform.
- Engine details: The engine is a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter boxer-four that produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
- Manufacturer: The GR86's manufacturing plate indicates it is manufactured by Subaru Corporation.
Does the GR86 have a BMW engine?
No, the standard Toyota GR86 does not have a BMW engine; it uses a 2.4L flat-four Subaru boxer engine. The GR86 is a collaboration between Toyota and Subaru, and its engine is a product of that partnership, though it has been modified with Toyota's D-4S injection system. While not standard, a GR86 can have a BMW engine installed as a custom swap.
- Factory engine: The GR86 comes from the factory with a 2.4-liter, naturally aspirated, horizontally opposed four-cylinder Subaru engine.
- Co-development: The GR86 was co-developed with Subaru, which is why it shares its engine and platform with Subaru's BRZ.
- Custom swaps: Some owners have performed custom engine swaps, and there are examples of GR86 models with a BMW engine installed, but this is not a factory option.
- Distinction from GR Supra: The Toyota GR Supra, which was also a collaboration, does have a BMW engine.
