On April 5th, Toyota and Subaru unveiled the second generation GR 86 and BRZ. Launching in Japan is scheduled for summer of fall of 2021, but from a global perspective, the main market for the two models has been, and will continue to be, the North American market. The new generation is attracting attention as a rare compact sports model, but what kind of models will be its rivals in North America?

Almost The Same Body Dimensions, But Bigger Engine

The new GR 86 and BRZ is finally here. So let’s think about how they will do in the United States.

Both cars are four-seater coupe and are characterized by an FR platform with a boxer engine.

The new models also retain these fundamental elements.

Body dimensions are 4265 mm x 1775 mm x 1310 mm, with the wheelbase being 2575 mm, so the changes compared to the previous model are minimal.

Major changes from the previous model include increase in engine displacement and tire size. The boxer engine used in the new model has increased its displacement from 2.0 liter to 2.4 liter, and 215/45R17 to 215/40R18 for the stock tire. Subaru’s EyeSight safety feature has also been adopted for lever shift models.

Due to its increase in displacement, the overall output has also increased from 204 hp to 231 hp (Japanese spec model). The tire size was probably increased to accommodate the increased output. Basically, the concept of a fun car that takes advantage of the low center of gravity made by its boxer has been retained, while other parts have been brushed up.

So, what kind of rivals does the new GR 86/BRZ have in the North American market, which is the main battleground for sales?

The two most popular American sports cars that greet the two cars are the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro.

Both are four-seat FR sports cars like the Japanese sports car. Unlike the GR 86, however, both models are available as coupes and convertibles.

In addition, there are many engine variations unlike the GR 86/BRZ which has only a 2.4-liter naturally-aspirated engine. Ford’s muscle is available with a 2.3-liter turbocharged I4, a 3-liter V6, a 5-liter V8, and a 5.2-liter V8.

Its Chevy counterpart has a 2.0-liter turbocharged I4, a 3.6-liter V6, and a 6.2-liter V8 with an option of a supercharged variant.

Prices for the Mustang starts at the $27,155 entry-level model, and the top model being the $72,900 Shelby GT500 model.

For the bowtied counterpart, prices start at $25,000 2-liter model with a maximum output of 275 hp. Top-tire 6.2-liter V8 supercharged model with 650 hp starts at $66,190.

In contrast to the GR 86/BRZ, which is equipped with a naturally-aspirated and sells its handling rather than power, the two muscle cars are mainly equipped with supercharged engines. These are the types of cars that only America can offer.