Following a flurry of reports that suggested both the Toyota GT86 and the Subaru BRZ were not long for this world, representatives from Toyota and Subaru denied reports that both cars would be axed, and also revealed that work on the next generation Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ is already underway.
While Toyota’s recent partnership with BMW on the Toyota Supra/BMW Z4 is currently center stage news these days, it can easy to be forget that Toyota also has a partnership with Japanese rival Subaru for production of the budget minded Toyota GT86 (aka the old Scion FR-S) and the Subaru BRZ. When the twins were released, they aimed to give budget minded enthusiasts a performance option that would not break the bank, and in the case of the long defunct Scion brand, a shot of vigor into its decaying sales numbers. While both cars do indeed pack commendable amounts of performance into their platforms, they have not necessarily translated into high sales figures for both companies during the bulk of their production run.
A recent report from the Japanese publication Best Car appeared to suggest that both companies decided to end their joint development venture, and cease development on the next generation of the Toyabaru twins in the process. However, a Toyota spokesperson recently revealed to CarScoops that the Japanese report was false, while Subaru USA spokesman Ron Kinno issued a separate response stating ‘We do not endorse this report coming from Japan’s Best Car” and added “We are moving ahead with a next generation Subaru BRZ, but have no further details at this time.”
While this is certainly a big sigh of relief for the loyal fanbase that loves and cherishes these cars, it still does not answer exactly what is indeed in store for the next generation model? Both companies are keeping their respective cards close to the hand, but if one looks at what defines the current generation GT86 and BRZ, what they discover can shed a bit of light on some of the changes that are possibly coming. For starters, the revamped duo could be equipped with a more powerful engine to help address long standing complaints about the lack of muscle that is evident with their impressive handling characteristics, while the interior could see enhancements to both plastic quality and ergonomics (especially in the GT86.)
To be clear, these denials are not absolute confirmations that both companies are working on the next generation GT86 and BRZ, but considering that both companies released these denials in the first place, as well as the strong demand for these cars, chances are likely that the collaborative alliance will indeed continue.
As for the new GT86 and Subaru BRZ, they are not expected to appear for a few more years, and for the moment, both of the current models will be expected to hold down the fort for their respective brands until the new models eventually make their appearance.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.