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Why do the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 look the same?

The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are two sports cars that share a remarkably similar appearance. This is because the two vehicles are essentially the same car, developed through a joint collaboration between Subaru and Toyota.


The Shared Platform and Design


The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are built on the same rear-wheel-drive platform, which was co-developed by the two automakers. This shared platform allows the cars to have nearly identical exterior and interior designs. The similarities extend to the chassis, suspension, and even the engine, which is a Subaru-sourced 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder unit.


While the cars may look nearly identical, there are some minor differences in the styling and badging. For example, the front grille and headlight designs are slightly different, and the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 have their respective brand logos on the front and rear of the vehicles.


The Reasons Behind the Collaboration


The joint development of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 was a strategic move by both companies. Subaru lacked the resources to develop a dedicated sports car on its own, while Toyota was seeking a more affordable and engaging sports car to add to its lineup. By pooling their resources and expertise, the two automakers were able to create a compelling sports car that appeals to enthusiasts on a budget.


The collaboration also allowed Subaru and Toyota to share the development costs and risks associated with bringing a new sports car to market. This type of joint venture is becoming more common in the automotive industry as companies look to reduce expenses and leverage each other's strengths.


The Benefits for Consumers


For consumers, the shared platform and design of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 offer several benefits:



  • Increased competition and choice: The presence of two nearly identical sports cars from different brands provides consumers with more options and potentially better pricing.

  • Shared parts and service: Since the cars are so similar, owners of either model can take advantage of a larger pool of available parts and service providers.

  • Diverse brand appeal: The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 may attract different types of buyers due to their respective brand identities, even though the cars are fundamentally the same.


Overall, the shared platform and design of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are the result of a strategic collaboration between the two automakers. This partnership has allowed them to create an affordable and engaging sports car that appeals to a wide range of enthusiasts.

Why are Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ the same?


Because the cars were jointly developed, they have the backing of Toyota, which has a reputation for building extremely reliable cars. The 2.0-litre boxer engine isn't unreliable, but if something were to go wrong, it could cost more to fix because it's a less common design.



Is GR86 faster than BRZ?


Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ performance is tied, as both models posted a Car and Driver tested 0-60-mph time of 5.4 seconds. They share the same specs and platform, leading to equal capabilities in both vehicles.



Why do the GR86 and BRZ look the same?


Because they are made at the same factory, developed by Subaru & Toyota together. Subaru and Scion are manufacturing partners as well. Scion is a discontinued marque of Toyota that started in 2003.



Are BRZ and GR86 made in the same factory?


The Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ are 2+2 sports cars jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, manufactured at Subaru's Gunma assembly plant.



Why did Subaru Scion and Toyota make the same car?


Fast forward to 2012 and the iconic Toyota 86 was born, as well as the Subaru BRZ. Both were initially JDM cars, but there was a huge demand for these compact cars in the US and Canada. Eventually, Toyota brought in the 86 and rebadged it to be under the Scion umbrella and the FR-S was born.



What does GR86 stand for?


And yet, that's precisely what happened with Toyota's Gazoo Racing (GR), which debuted in 2007 as a complement to Toyota Racing Development (TRD). Toyota's GR is aimed specifically at racing fans and street performance enthusiasts.



Is the BRZ or GR86 faster?


Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ performance is tied, as both models posted a Car and Driver tested 0-60-mph time of 5.4 seconds. They share the same specs and platform, leading to equal capabilities in both vehicles.



What does Toyota GR86 stand for?


Toyota GR stands for Gazoo Racing and it is Toyota's high-performance division.



Which is faster, BRZ or 86?


Is the Toyota G86 faster than the Subaru BRZ? Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ performance is tied, as both models posted a Car and Driver tested 0-60-mph time of 5.4 seconds. They share the same specs and platform, leading to equal capabilities in both vehicles.



Does BRZ stand for anything?


But as for Zenith. Well the definition. Is the time at which something is most powerful or successful.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.