Next-Gen Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ Could Debut As Concepts At Tokyo Motor Show

Toyota and Subaru are reportedly getting ready to preview the next-generation of their twin sports cars, namely the 86 and BRZ models, at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show on October 24.

The next generation of the Japanese performance coupes will make its first appearance in concept form, giving us a taste of what to expect when they’ll arrive in the market in the first half of 2021, according to a report from Japan’s Best Car.

Also Read: 2020 Toyota 86 Gains New Infotainment System And TRD Handling Package

The same report talks about the adoption of a new platform for the next Toyobaru, which could translate into an upgraded version of the existing architecture, since both Toyota’s TNGA and Subaru’s Global Platform are either not suitable or not compatible with their requirements, namely size and the necessary rear-wheel drive layout.

The engine will remain a four-cylinder boxer unit from Subaru but the new 86/BRZ will ditch the 2.0-liter FA20 unit in favor of the larger 2.4-liter FA24.

That’s the same type of engine you find in many current Subaru models, including the turbocharged variants of the Legacy and Ascent, but it seems like it’s not the 260 HP version. Instead the FA24 in the next 86/BRZ duo is said to produce 220 HP, if you believe the rumors. Both a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic option will be available.

Back in January, both Subaru and Toyota confirmed to us that they are indeed working on the next-generation 86/BRZ, without providing further details. While we never expected a radical reinvention, it’s nice to hear that the two new models will remain faithful to their fun-to-drive roots.

However, Toyota and Subaru should adress one of the biggest complaints coming from the current models and that is power. After all, keeping the weight to the current levels and dropping the turbocharged 260 HP 2.4-liter flat four engine under the bonnet sounds almost ideal for the new Toyobarus, doesn’t it?