Subaru BRZ vs. Toyota GT86: which is better?
The BRZ and GT86 are the step brothers of the motoring world, but how do they compare on the road?
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These two models spell out what it means to be a sporty coupé – rear-wheel drive, a naturally aspirated engine and a compact design.
Compared with other coupés, they have a few standout features – including a unique engine design – which add to their appeal.
If you’re struggling to pick between the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86, this article should make your decision a little easier.
Styling
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The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86 share the same platform, so it’s no surprise that they look similar to each other. They both look exactly as you’d expect a sports car to look and are fairly similar to the Audi TT.
Their low-slung coupé shapes are indicative of their performance, but Toyota and Subaru have each added their own styling characteristics to set them apart.
While they look almost identical from the rear, there are some slight tweaks at the front. For example, Toyota uses a more aggressive-looking bumper and grille design, and the Subaru has softer lines.
It’s also worth mentioning the placement of the daytime running lights, which are on all the time. They’re built into the Toyota’s headlights and have a more aggressive look, adding to the sporty feel.
Despite the subtle differences, many drivers will have a hard time identifying each car from many angles. The reality is that, because they’re so similar, you’ll have virtually twice as many cars to choose from.
What are they like to drive?
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Again, there’s very little to separate these two models, which have lower and firmer suspension than your typical family hatch, meaning they’re responsive and engaging to drive.
They’re both rear-wheel-drive, which means they can be more fun to drive than many other cars, which are typically front-wheel-drive.
Toyota used Subaru’s engine technology for its car, so both have the same 200hp 2.0-litre boxer engine, which is slightly different to the engines you’d find in most other cars except for many Subarus.
Boxer engines are more balanced and better suited to delivering higher performance. They’re also flatter, which means the bonnet can sit lower (making the car look sportier), and they sound great.
The Toyota has a slightly different exhaust setup, so it sounds louder when pushed hard.
Interior and technology
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Both cars have fairly straightforward dashboards that include an infotainment display and a series of functional physical buttons, all made of durable materials.
Compared with more premium rivals like the Audi TT, they offer a much less digital experience, which is appealing to many buyers of this type of car.
The GT86’s seats offer slightly more lateral support while the BRZ’s seats are slightly more comfortable, but they both use sports seats, which are designed to hold you in place fairly firmly.
There’s little headroom or legroom for the two rear passengers, and even some children will struggle to fit, but this is typical of any small coupé. They’re often referred to as having 2+2 seats, not four, because the back seats are only really there for an emergency.
Boot space and practicality
The 237-litre boot that you’ll find in the GT86 is a touch smaller than the BRZ’s boot, which measures 243 litres, but the difference is practically indetectable in real life.
It’s about the same size as you’d find in the Nissan 370Z, which has a 235-litre space, but the Audi TT has more space, at 305 litres.
For reference, small hatchbacks have slightly more space. The latest Ford Fiesta, for example, has a 292-litre boot.
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Reliability
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.
There’s also the fact that the Subaru came with a three-year warranty, while the Toyota got five years’ coverage. You’ll struggle to find a used model with a manufacturer warranty remaining, but because it has longer coverage, a used GT86 may be better maintained.
Size and dimensions
Despite their different exterior designs, both the Toyota GT86 and the Subaru BRZ are 4,240mm long, 1,775mm wide and 1,320mm tall.
Besides the Audi TT and Nissan 370Z, there aren’t many other small coupés like these around.
The first-generation BMW 2 Series coupé is more than 19cm longer, 21cm wider and nearly 10cm taller.
Verdict: Toyota GT86 vs. Subaru BRZ: which should you buy?
Though they’re different on paper, the experience of owning and driving both these models is extremely similar, so there’s no bad pick. The choice ultimately comes down to availability and styling preference.