Subaru BRZ and GR86: new electric generation?

Subaru BRZ and GR86: new electric generation?

Subaru BRZ and GR86

Since its debut almost ten years ago, the new generation Toyota GT86 (which later became the GR86), has garnered widespread acclaim and unanimous criticism: it takes more power. Perhaps with the addition of the turbo, at the time the most popular solution when it came to sports cars. Times, as they usually do, have changed and today supercharging is no longer the optimal choice. Not that Toyota or Subaru had ever listened to fans and press: both cars (which are almost the same model) have always maintained their aspirated nature.

But something could change within the next few years, reading the latest news coming from Japan. There was recently presented the latest evolution of the GR86 with a 2.4-liter engine and increased power up to 230 horsepower. Numbers that remain very far from what many would like to see under the hood, especially the passionate Japanese “drifters”. For this reason, much of the Japanese press specifically asked the manufacturer if there was an option to switch to electric. Given that the addition of the turbo, after all these years, seems now ruled out.

Subaru spokespersons have confirmed that there is interest in this solution and other collaborations with Toyota (for the development of new engines). But nothing definitive has been put on paper and therefore there are no dates or deadlines for the debut of any electrified GR86. At the moment, the most likely solution is that of a hybrid version before the "full electric" with the addition of an electric motor on the rear axle (coupled to the thermal one on the front). This would increase maximum torque and power in one fell swoop, but also weight. Hence, probably, the caution of the parent company.

It must be said that both cars, despite the complaints of a lot of press, have collected some success even without offering astonishing performance. This is thanks to the scarce competition that exists today (compared to the golden years of sports cars) and the very attractive shapes. So there is no real pressure on Toyota and Subaru to radically change the car, other than future emissions regulations. And by then, probably, there will already be a 100% electric model.