Subaru BRZ VS 2020 Toyota 86

The Canadian market isn't overloaded with compact, high-performance, two-door coupes. However, there are two excellent examples of this car type available in 2020: the Subaru BRZ and the Toyota 86.

Which car most deserves your attention in the showrooms? Read our Subaru BRZ vs Toyota 86 comparison review to find out.

First Impressions

From the very beginning, it's difficult to tell these two vehicles apart. Both feature long front ends with headlights that angle backward and sideways showing aggressive intent. The compact and curvy two-door cabins both sweep slowly back to high rear ends with almost non-existent rear deck lids.

The Subaru is slightly more angled at the front compared to the Toyota's more open approach, but otherwise they're virtually identical in appearance.

Under the Hood

Of course, true performance cars are about much more than dynamic looks. The two cars share a 2.0L 4-cylinder boxer engine producing 205 horsepower and 156lb-ft of torque, and both cars are rear-wheel drive only.

As standard, the engine is coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission. Choosing the alternative automatic transmission will shave a few points of the horsepower and torque figures on each model.

While these raw engine output figures may not seem quite in the high-performance bracket, it's important to remember that both these cars are aimed at usable power with dynamic handling rather than outright straight-line speed. With this in mind, the engines are amply powerful to propel two-door coupes of this size.

Fuel Economy

Again, there's little to choose between these two excellent vehicles when it comes to fuel economy. Official figures rate the manual transmission versions at 11.2L / 100km in the city and 8.4L / 100km on the highway.

As expected, switching to the more efficient automatic transmission improves these figures to 9.8L / 100km for city driving and 7.4L / 100km on the highway, even if the driving feel loses a little of the manual box's hands-on appeal.

Interior and Technology

The small cabins officially seat four passengers, but expecting anyone but the smallest of children to spend much time in the rear isn't really realistic. However, up front these cars offer a comfortable ride, with optionally heated seats placed in a relatively spacious front row.

Both cars offer a 7" touchscreen as standard to control the infotainment features, and both are fitted with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

2020 Subaru BRZ vs 2020 Toyota 86: The Verdict

In almost every respect, these two cars are identical. From the exterior, only the superficial details such as brand insignia and front fascia set them apart. For the interior and mechanics, both offer the same ultimate range of options, but with specific trims configured slightly differently for each lineup.

However, the Subaru is available at a lower starting price, making it a more affordable option if the base trim has everything you need.

Test Drive the Subaru BRZ in Toronto

If you want to see more of the Subaru BRZ, contact us now to arrange a test drive from our Toronto showroom. If the world of SUVs or stately sedans leaves you cold, this thrilling but affordable sports coupe could be the alternative you're looking for.