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No sibling rivalry is as fierce as the battle of Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ. They shared a development process. They have the same engine. Their dimensions are identical. However, each is aimed at a different kind of sports-minded driver. Is the friendlier BRZ the better choice? Or is the aggressive, well-appointed GR86 the perfect sports car for your garage?
They tie in most places, but where it counts, the Toyota GR86 offers you more. From a lighter curb weight to perks like a complimentary High-Performance Driving Experience,1 see how this Toyota sports car triumphs over its twin with our Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ comparison guide.
Once you’re ready to take charge and see what driving should feel like, visit Toyota of Irving for a test drive and discover our lease deals on the GR86.
Before even seeing the Subaru BRZ vs. Toyota GR86 differences, you’ll know that both the BRZ and GR86 are a different breed of vehicle entirely.
They’re unique from their respective manufacturer’s lineups. Both are pure sports cars that capture the old-school spirit of on-road engagement, using feedback-rich driving controls, a lightweight build, agile chassis, and RWD layout to distill the feeling that you’ve become one with your wheels.
The Supra is the closest other Toyota vehicle; Subaru lacks another RWD sports car.
Regardless, pure engagement starts with bulk or lack thereof. In the Toyota GR86, you’ll find a base curb weight of just 2,811 pounds. 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.
Both models have an RWD layout, a standard six-speed manual transmission (or an available six-speed automatic), an astoundingly agile 101.4-inch wheelbase, a Car and Driver tested 0-60-mph time of 5.4 seconds,2, 3 and up to an EPA-estimated 21/31/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).4, 5
However, the GR86 pulls ahead in the Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ performance comparison with two key differences. Firstly, each GR86 includes a complimentary High-Performance Driving Experience1 and a one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association.6 The BRZ does not offer this benefit. The BRZ also doesn’t offer exclusive GR upgrades like an available GR cat-back exhaust system, GR forged wheels, and GR circuit-tuned suspension.
As a final point of comparison, Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ styling may make a difference in your decision. While it’s a subjective matter that doesn’t significantly affect performance, the GR86 has a more classic and aggressive design that projects sportiness. The BRZ may be too friendly-looking for performance-seeking drivers.
| Engine: | 2.4-liter Four-Cylinder Boxer |
|---|---|
| Horsepower: | 228 |
| Torque: | 184 lb ft |
| 0-60 mph: | 5.4 sec2 |
| EPA-Estimated MPG (Combined) | 25 MPG4 |
| Transmission: | Six-Speed Manual / Six-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout: | RWD |
| Exterior Length: | 167.9 in |
| Exterior Width: | 69.9 in |
| Exterior Height: | 51.6 in |
| Trunk Size: | 6.3 cu ft |
| Shop Model: | Shop Toyota GR86 |
| Engine: | 2.4-liter Four-Cylinder Boxer |
|---|---|
| Horsepower: | 228 |
| Torque: | 184 lb ft |
| 0-60 mph: | 5.4 sec3 |
| EPA-Estimated MPG (Combined) | 25 MPG5 |
| Transmission: | Six-Speed Manual / Six-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout: | RWD |
| Exterior Length: | 167.9 in |
| Exterior Width: | 69.9 in |
| Exterior Height: | 51.6 in |
| Trunk Size: | 6.3 cu ft |
When it comes to performance, the Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ differences are harder to find than similarities. On the inside, you’ll notice this trend continues.
For starters, both models have a trunk measuring 6.3 cubic feet. Their overall interior designs are essentially the same – another result of their twin birth. And as you explore what’s inside, keep in mind that they have a near-identical starting price.
The base-trim 2023 Toyota GR86 has the following standard interior features:
The Subaru BRZ offers near-identical standard and available features. Its main difference is Subaru-branded infotainment software and safety features.
The only other noteworthy Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ interior difference involves the GR86 offering a third trim level (the BRZ only has two) that adds exclusive styling like Solar Shift GR86 10th Anniversary Special Edition door-panel embroidery, Solar Shift contrast-stitched floor mats, Solar Shift steering wheel stitching, and more.
While the Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ comparison reveals more similarities than differences, details matter. Whether the slightly lower weight and exclusive upgrades make the GR86 your winner, or its more aggressive styling and awesome performance-driving package seals the deal, we’ve got you covered at Toyota of Irving. Learn more about the latest Toyota GR86 release date online, and visit us today to test-drive your next GR86.
The Toyota GR86 is a more aggressive-looking, slightly lighter version of the Subaru BRZ that offers more trim levels and exclusive perks like a one-year National Auto Sport Association membership6 and a High-Performance Driving Experience.1 These sports cars are otherwise the same, as they both ride on a shared platform co-developed by Toyota and Subaru.
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. However, the Toyota GR86 does have a base curb weight that’s 5 pounds lighter and includes a complimentary High-Performance Driving Experience.1
The main difference between the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ is that the Toyota GR86 offers more aggressive styling, an extra trim to explore, a slightly lighter base curb weight, a complimentary one-year National Auto Sport Association membership6 plus a High-Performance Driving Experience,1 and Toyota-exclusive software and interior accents. They have a near-identical price, though.
1Valid in U.S. only. For qualified drivers over 18 years of age, with a valid driver’s license. Participation in high-performance driving creates a risk of personal injury or death and may cause damage to your vehicle that is not covered by your insurance or warranty. Please refer to your insurance policy and your vehicle’s Warranty and Maintenance Guide that describes the terms and conditions of Toyota’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage as well as general owner responsibilities.
2This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/gr-86
3This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/subaru/brz
4EPA-estimated 20 city/27 hwy/22 combined mpg rating for 2023 GR86 with 6-speed manual transmission; EPA-estimated 21 city/31 hwy/25 combined mpg rating for 2023 GR86 with automatic transmission. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
5EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.
6NASA membership is non-transferable and expires 1 year after purchase of your GR vehicle. The 1-day High Performance Driving Event (HPDE) is included as a membership benefit and must be redeemed within 1 year from the time of purchase of your vehicle. NASA membership and complimentary HPDE are not redeemable for cash or any other offer.
