Why are BRZ and 86 the same?

They are essentially the same two-seat, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe offered under two badges from a Toyota–Subaru collaboration. The GR86 (Toyota’s name) and BRZ (Subaru’s name) share the core platform, engine family, and drivetrain, with branding, tuning, and trim differences accounting for the rest.

Shared foundations: the technical core they share

What makes the BRZ and 86 feel like twins across model years is their common engineering package. Here is what that entails.

• Co-developed platform and chassis tuned for lightweight, balanced handling


• Rear-wheel-drive layout with near-identical suspension geometry and components


• Engine family that powers both cars (first generation used a 2.0-liter flat-four; second generation shifted to a larger displacement)


• Six-speed manual transmission as a popular option, with a six-speed automatic available in most markets


• Similar curb weights and overall driving dynamics aimed at a pure, driver-focused experience


• Shared production mindset and global distribution, reflecting the two brands’ collaboration

The result is a car family that behaves in a remarkably similar way on public roads and race tracks, even as branding and markets differ.

Branding, tuning, and design differences

While mechanically very close, the two badges diverge in branding and some tuning choices, which producers emphasize in different markets and model years.

• Exterior styling cues and badging reflect Toyota or Subaru design language, with distinct front fascias and lighting treatments


• Interior trim, materials, and optional equipment packages vary by brand and trim level


• Suspension tuning and minor chassis calibrations may differ by region or model year to fine-tune handling feel


• Available features, technology packages, and infotainment options can differ between BRZ and GR86 configurations


• Market-specific pricing and incentives influence perceived value and choice between the two

In practice, the core driving experience remains nearly identical, with the differences largely residing in cosmetics, hardware packaging, and brand positioning.

Generations and evolution

Both cars arrived in two major generations, reflecting evolving engine technology and refinement, while staying true to their shared mission as affordable, engaging sports coupes.

First generation (2012–2020)

The original BRZ and 86 were launched as a joint Toyota–Subaru project, built around a lightweight, front-engine, rear-drive layout. The early cars used a 2.0-liter flat-four engine with roughly 200 horsepower, paired with manual or automatic transmissions. The goal was to deliver a near-1800–2,800 kg (approximate) platform with balanced handling, approachable power, and a focus on driver engagement rather than straight-line speed. Styling combined Subaru’s sporty silhouette with Toyota’s sharp character lines, making the pair instantly recognizable as twins in the showroom and on the road.

Second generation (2022–present)

The second generation marked a move to a larger displacement: a 2.4-liter flat-four that broadens mid-range torque and improves overall usability without compromising the lightweight, nimble feel. Power figures typically sit in the low-to-mid 200s horsepower, with torque around the mid-180s pound-feet. Both GR86 and BRZ maintain a six-speed manual option and a six-speed automatic, reinforcing their identity as pure sports coupes. The styling and interior updates align with modernized infotainment and safety expectations, while the fundamental driving experience remains faithful to the original concept.

Across generations, the core premise endures: two brands collaborating to deliver an affordable, engaging, rear-wheel-drive sports car, available under two badges that mirror each other in most mechanical respects despite market-driven differences.

Summary

BRZ and 86 are the same car in essence—a pair of co-developed, rear-wheel-drive sports coupes built on shared architecture and powertrains, differentiated mainly by branding, minor tuning tweaks, and equipment packaging. The collaboration between Subaru and Toyota has produced two badges that feel like twins to driving enthusiasts, with the GR86 and BRZ continuing to evolve together while preserving the core driving experience that defines them.

Is the Subaru BRZ or Toyota 86 faster?

With this engine configuration, the BRZ can reach a top speed of 155 mph. In comparison, the 2023 Toyota GR86 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds with the 2.4-liter engine. It can reach the quarter mile in 14 seconds and achieve a top speed of 140 mph.

Is a BRZ and a GR86 the same car?

No, the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are not the same, although they are built on the same platform and share many mechanical components. The key differences lie in their distinct tuning philosophies, which result in different driving experiences—the BRZ is more supple and stable, while the GR86 is tuned to be more aggressive and agile. They also have different exterior styling and interior accents.
 
This video explains the differences between the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86: 47sWhen Hann Meets CarsYouTube · May 9, 2025
Key differences

• Driving dynamics: Subaru tunes the BRZ for a more comfortable and compliant ride, while Toyota tunes the GR86 for a slightly more aggressive, track-focused feel. 
• Exterior styling: The cars have different front fascias, headlights, and bumpers. The GR86 often has a more pronounced ducktail spoiler. 
• Interior accents: The GR86 may feature red carpets and a "GR" logo on the start-stop button, while the BRZ has black carpets and a standard start-stop button. 
• Suspension: While the core components are shared, specific tuning differs, with slightly different spring rates, dampers, and sway bar setups. 
• Software and accessories: The GR86 comes with a complimentary one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) and access to a High-Performance Driving Experience. 
• Dealer experience: The availability of trims and the dealer experience itself can be a deciding factor. 

This video compares the Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition and the Subaru BRZ tS: 1mAutoGuide.comYouTube · Aug 30, 2024
Shared similarities

• Engine: Both models use the same 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, producing 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. 
• Drivetrain: Both come standard with a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, with an automatic option available. 
• Chassis: They share the same basic chassis, with the same proportions and a low center of gravity that contributes to excellent handling. 

Why do Toyota Scion and Subaru have the same car?

In 2008, Toyota bought 16.5% of Fuji Heavy Industries, which includes the Subaru automotive brand. Toyota, led by project leader Tetsuya Tada, then invited Subaru to partner in the project, by co-developing the new D-4S boxer engine.

Does the Frs BRZ and 86 have the same engine?

And 150 lb feet of torque. Now I know what you're thinking Caleb those numbers don't sound all that impressive. And you're right it's not that impressive at all those numbers are kind of sad.