After their initial launch in 2012, the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 were both given significant facelifts in 2017, which only further separated the two “twins under the skin”, as they are often called.
Subaru went out of its way to differentiate its BRZ from the Toyota, with a slatted grille design, a new and unique front bumper with integrated fog lights, sporty brake vents and even BRZ-branded LED headlights. New side strakes were a final and classy touch, too.
The Subaru also feels distinctly classier inside than the Toyota 86 GT, with red stitching, silver and chrome look highlights, glossy black detailing, a rimless rear-view mirror and a leather look element on the passenger-side of the dash.
The BRZ is also a winner in terms of infotainment, with a bigger 7-inch central touchscreen that features a far more modern and user-friendly interface than the one found in the 86. The BRZ also gets a multi-function steering wheel, push-button start (BRZ vs 86’s key you need to turn) and a Multi-Information Display unit (MID).
What lies beneath - BRZ vs 86
Yes, the gearboxes and the engines - a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, naturally aspirated boxer unit, which reflects Subaru’s heritage and preferred engine layout - are the same in both cars.
What that means is that they should both accelerate in the same fashion and at the same rate.
The way they handle, ride and corner are going to be different, however, with the two companies offering different suspension tunes, meaning if you drive BRZ vs 86 back to back, you will definitely notice the differences.
Another vital factor in terms of grip, and thus cornering joy, is that the two cars come with different rubber, which can be hugely influential. The Subaru BRZ goes with Michelin tyres while the Toyota chooses Yokohamas instead.
In terms of which car you would prefer, you need to conduct your own BRZ vs 86 comparison test to know for sure, but there are definitely differences to be considered.
CarsGuide
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03 June 2021
