Next-gen 86 and BRZ on the way with more power
Updated sports cars could have at least 255hp generated by a Subaru ‘Boxer’ engine and will be built on Toyota’s TNGA platform. By Lawrence Allan
Toyota and Subaru are ramping up development of a successor to the 86 and BRZ sports cars — and Autocar has learned that the Toyota version will be rebranded as the GR86. The 86 and BRZ were launched in 2012, and their future had been in doubt because of relatively low sales. But both companies have committed to developing a replacement, with the Toyota version a key part of the brand’s growing performance car line-up.
Toyota boss Akio Toyoda is a major proponent of using performance models to boost the brand’s image under the Gazoo Racing division, which also includes Toyota’s various motorsport programmes.
The original 86 pre-dated the creation of that brand, which started with the GR Supra and will also include the GR Yaris, the first model developed purely by Gazoo Racing. The next 86 is set to be rebranded to bring it in line with that nomenclature.
The next-gen sports car will feature some substantial changes from the existing model. While the original was built on a Subaru platform, the firm’s current architectures are not suited to rear-drive cars, so the new model is set to be built on Toyota’s TNGA platform.
While Toyota underpinnings will be used, Subaru is expected to once again take the lead with powertrain development. The car is likely to retain a flat-four “Boxer” engine, with reports in Japan suggesting that the existing 2.0-litre naturally aspirated unit will be switched for the turbocharged 2.4litre powerplant currently used in the Ascent, Legacy and Outback models.
That engine produces 255hp in the Ascent, a figure that would represent a significant upgrade on the outgoing model’s output. Forced induction would also provide a substantial torque upgrade over the old car, providing a draw for those who weren’t satisfied with the performance of the outgoing 86 and BRZ. Both brands may wish to retain the drivability and character of a naturally aspirated unit, but this needs to be balanced with what buyers are demanding — and that appears to be the on-tap grunt of a turbocharged unit.
Toyota and Subaru will also want to improve the aesthetic appeal of the new car, inside and out. The old 86 and BRZ were widely criticised for their lowrent cabin, so expect improvements in technology, material usage, and fit and finish. Whether the model becomes more of a true four-seater to help it stand up against more practical rivals remains to be seen.
Such changes — particularly the power upgrade — would be likely to see the price of both cars increase. However, both brands will be conscious of the proximity of more premium models, such as the Audi TT and the BMW Z4. Toyota won’t want to tread on the toes of its own Supra, either, particularly in Japan, where a four-cylinder version of the reborn sports car is offered.
The second-generation BRZ and 86 will build on expanding links between Subaru and Toyota. As well as the sports car, the two firms are teaming up to develop a new EV platform and electric SUV.