Electrification Could Bring More Power To Subaru BRZ And Toyota GR 86 Twins

The second generation of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR 86 siblings are two lightweight naturally aspirated and rear-wheel-drive sportscars designed with the purists in mind. While we understand the reasons behind Subaru’s and Toyota’s decision not to add a turbocharger to the boxer engine (packaging, weight, low center of gravity, etc), we’d love to see a more powerful version. According to the latest reports from Japan, this could happen with the help of electrification.

Japanese website Best Car Web claims that people from Subaru said that the integration of hybrid technology in the BRZ is “not impossible” given that the model was developed in collaboration with Toyota which is at the forefront of electrified powertrains. This is definitely not a confirmation of any kind, however it is a sign that the engineers are considering different options for the development of future variants/models.

Also Read: The 2022 GR 86 Makes A Good Impression During Our First Ride As Toyota Explains Why It Lacks A Turbo

The addition of an electric motor and a battery pack to the Subaru BRZ / Toyota GR 86 would definitely add weight, but it would also increase the combined output and torque figures. The placement of the batteries could also lower the center of gravity, benefiting handling. At the same time, electrification would make both the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ more future-proof, as emission regulations make it more difficult for ICE-powered sportscars to exist.

As a reminder, both models are currently fitted with the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine producing 228 hp (170 kW / 231 PS) in the US-spec BRZ and 232 hp (173 kW / 235 PS) in the GR 86. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox, with the help of a limited-slip differential. The Japanese sportscars can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 6.3 seconds, with a top speed of 149 mph (240 km/h).

We know that the next generation of pretty much every vehicle will be electrified – if not fully electric – so it doesn’t surprise us that people are discussing hybrid options for sportscars. Even Mazda’s MX-5 is expected to be electrified in the future, so we guess the automakers will find a way to keep sportscars fun to drive. What will certainly happen with electrification is fewer emissions and significantly improved acceleration figures associated with electric motors.