Classic pearl of the future - Toyota GR 86 (Subaru BRZ)
Around six years ago, we already gave the original Toyota GT86 / Subaru BRZ classic pearl status, and now we're going even further out on a limb.
The second generation of the now Toyota GR 86 sports car has just been announced and things would have to go wrong if the successor didn't have what it takes to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor (launched in 2012, when Toyota built over 200,000 units).
Everything that is important remains the same, i.e. rear-wheel drive, front engine, manual transmission (there is also an automatic), low weight (under 1300 kg) and relatively narrow tires (215/40 R18).
Nevertheless, the GR 86 is a largely newly developed car. It now comes with a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated boxer engine with around 220 to 230 hp, the torsional rigidity has been increased by 40% and the aerodynamics have been optimized.
At 4265 mm long, 1775 mm wide and 1310 mm high, the 2+2 coupé remains compact, ideal for narrow country roads.
There is a good chance that the new model (probably costing around EUR 30,000, CHF 32,000) will also be a lot of fun to drive. What is certain is that there is hardly another car (apart from the Mazda MX-5 perhaps) that has such a classic (technical) appearance for a similar budget. And all that's really missing now is a dignified appearance in a cult movie to make the pretty coupé an instant classic.
And yes, for Subaru fans there will also be another BRZ version, at least for Japan it has already been announced. At Toyota, however, you can benefit from the (service-bound) new car warranty, which has now been extended to 10 years.
