The new model will reportedly move to Toyota’s newest architecture.
The first generation Toyota 86/Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ resulted from a joint venture between Toyota and Subaru in 2011. After getting some confirmation from both companies that a second-generation model is in the works, some more details are floating around on what exactly is going on under the skin.
Unlike the current coupe twins, a Subaru insider told Australian website CarSales that the new models will ride atop Toyota’s New Global Architecture. That is a major switch from the current version’s modified Impreza platform. The reason for the switch is retaining the car’s rear-wheel drive layout. Subaru is using its new Global Platform as the basis for its new all-wheel drive vehicle. However, the new BRZ and Toyota 86 wouldn’t fall under that umbrella.
As a result, it stands to reason Toyota’s platform could better accommodate the coupe’s rear-wheel drive requirement. The “senior” Subaru source said, “It’s a very flexible platform, but we make all-wheel drive vehicles. That’s our forte, all-wheel drive.”
The current generation 86 and BRZ twins use a 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated boxer engine. It manages 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, and comes mated to either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. It’s unclear how that setup will change for the new models. Both will likely receive input from Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division.
If the next-generation models are more Toyota, less Subaru, that may be good news for those disappointed by the new Supra. As that model came about from a tie-up between Toyota and BMW, a new 86 on the TNGA platform may end up as more of a spiritual successor to Toyota’s past sports cars.
