The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 have earned a spot on Car and Driver ‘s 2026 10Best Cars list—not by accident, but by being among the last truly dedicated, lightweight rear-wheel drive sports coupes available. While Porsche has temporarily stepped back from the market, these twins stand out as a refreshing throwback to a simpler time in automotive design.
The Last of a Dying Breed
In an era of ever-increasing vehicle weight—driven by electrification and feature creep—the BRZ and GR86 remain remarkably light, tipping the scales under 2900 pounds. This matters because weight directly impacts agility, steering feel, and the overall driving experience. Lighter cars simply feel more connected and responsive. Many modern sports cars rely on horsepower to mask their bulk, but these coupes prove that finesse and balance can still triumph.
Driving Dynamics: Purity in Motion
These aren’t just fast in a straight line; they’re remarkably capable in corners. With only 228 horsepower from a 2.4-liter flat-four engine and skinny 215mm tires, the BRZ and GR86 achieve nearly 1.0 g of cornering force. The six-speed manual transmission is the preferred choice, delivering quicker acceleration (including 13-second quarter-mile times) and a more engaging experience. The automatic, while functional, dulls the edge.
“Every time we get behind the wheel, these sports coupes win us over all over again.” – Car and Driver
Trade-Offs and Practicality
The BRZ and GR86 aren’t perfect. Road noise is noticeable at highway speeds, and the infotainment system lags behind modern standards. However, their small rear seats offer unexpected utility, making them more versatile than dedicated two-seaters—ideal for storing track gear or luggage.
Why This Matters: The Future of Driving
These cars represent a critical counterpoint to the industry trend of heavier, more complex vehicles. They remind us that raw driving joy doesn’t require massive horsepower or cutting-edge tech. The BRZ and GR86 are a rare breed: affordable, engaging, and unapologetically focused on the core experience of driving.
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 prove that sometimes, less is more—especially when it comes to pure driving pleasure.
