Toyota (TM, Financial) 86 and sister model Subaru (FUJHY, Financial) BRZ have been around for nearly six years now. This clearly suggests that they are heading toward the end of their terms. Evidently, this means that Toyota and Subaru are also planning the successors. According to Japan Times, the second generation models can be expected to hit the road around 2021. The two companies have reportedly started working on the succeeding models to the 86 and BRZ.
Word has it that Toyota and Subaru are developing the next 86 sports car model and aim to launch the compact rear wheel drive sports car with better performance. The 86 will be manufactured at Subaru’s facility in Gunma Prefecture. The automaker expects that the revamped model will draw more customers and help in lifting the company’s corporate image.
Neither Toyota nor Subaru have given confirmation on whether they have joined forces to work on the next-gen versions of the 86 and BRZ.
Under the hood
Though the 86 and BRZ were big hits among sports car enthusiasts owing to a manual transmission, rear-wheel driving and affordability, it attracted certain complains. The current iterations of the sports models are criticized because of its poor quality dashboard and low engine power. As such, Toyota and Subaru are said to be addressing these issue in the second generation version.
According to undisclosed sources, the new Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ will have bigger engines from the existing 2.0 liters to 2.4 liters, suggesting greater power. The revamped version of the two sports cars are said to have a lower center of gravity, which will help improve cornering performance. For this, the vehicles’ suspension, steering, and brakes will have to be redone.
It, however, remains uncertain whether the automakers are weighing the possibility of launching the next-gen models with turbocharged versions. It may be noted, turbocharging the 86 will require a great deal of work.
The models should adorn the latest and most innovative driving assistance system with new infotainment system and attractive interiors. The sports cars are expected to come with the eCall system, compulsory in Europe, which contacts emergency assistance in case of a crash.
Last word
Though the 86 and BRZ are not the top-selling models of Toyota and Subaru, it surely adds to the automakers’ portfolio. Both the models have a strong fan base and if the companies come out with the new versions of the sports coupe, it will surely attract lot of attention and add to the company’s sales. The 86 has been a popular car and has its own niche. The new Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ would undoubtedly be a treat to the eyes of sports car buffs.
Disclosure: I do not hold any position in the stocks mentioned in the article.
