In a world where tech-laden dashboards and electrified drivetrains dominate headlines, the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are stubborn holdouts for the purist. Recently crowned among Car and Driver’s 2026 10Best Cars, these twins prove that sometimes, less is more—especially when it comes to automotive joy.
Forget about adaptive cruise, AI copilots, or massaging seats. The BRZ and GR86 deliver something far rarer: an unfiltered connection between car and driver. In today’s auto market, that’s almost revolutionary.
Why This Matters
- Lightweight Legacy: Both cars tip the scales at under 2,900 lbs—a rarity as modern cars pack on pounds with tech, safety, and electrification. This featherweight status pays dividends in handling, agility, and driver engagement.
- Affordable Fun: With base prices starting around $32K, these cars democratize the sports-coupe experience. You don’t need Porsche money to get world-class driving dynamics.
- Manual Transmission: The crisp 6-speed manual isn’t just a nostalgic flourish—it’s a performance advantage. It’s even quicker than the automatic, bucking the trend among modern sports cars.
Key Takeaways
- Performance Over Numbers: 228 hp may sound modest, but the magic is in the chassis. Nearly 1.0 g of cornering grip with only 215-mm tires? That’s wizardry.
- Practicality Isn’t Forgotten: Tiny back seats might not fit adults, but they swallow track tires or luggage—making these cars more usable than two-seat rivals.
- An Endangered Species: As the Porsche 718 takes a hiatus and the Mazda MX-5 faces an uncertain future, the BRZ/GR86 duo are among the last affordable rear-drive sports coupes standing.
What Most People Miss
- They’re Not Just for Enthusiasts: While hardcore drivers gush about balance and steering feel, the reality is these cars are approachable for newcomers. You don’t need to be a pro to have fun—you just need to love driving.
- Real-World Efficiency: Despite their playful nature, both deliver 22–25 mpg combined. That’s practical enough for daily use, not just weekend blasts.
- Manual Is King Here: In most modern cars, automatics are quicker. Here, the manual transmission is actually faster—a rarity in the 2020s, and a delight for purists.
How They Stack Up: BRZ/GR86 vs. the Competition
- Mazda MX-5 Miata: The Miata is lighter and offers a convertible top, but its two-seat layout limits practicality. Both Japanese twins offer more cargo and passenger flexibility.
- Ford Mustang/Chevrolet Camaro: These American muscle cars pack more power, but at the cost of weight, price, and handling purity. The BRZ/GR86 twins are the driver’s choice for the twisties.
- Porsche 718 Cayman: More refined and powerful, but with a starting price nearly double. With the 718 on hiatus, the affordable sports-coupe crown is up for grabs.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Engaging handling, affordable pricing, manual transmission, usable rear seats for gear
- Cons: Road noise at highway speeds, basic infotainment, not ideal for long road trips
Action Steps for Shoppers
- Test Drive Both: Subtle suspension and tuning differences mean the BRZ and GR86 each have a unique flavor. Try both before you buy.
- Opt for the Manual: If you value engagement and performance, the manual is the clear winner here.
- Think Long-Term: As electrification sweeps the industry, cars like these are a dying breed. If you want one, don’t wait.
The Bottom Line
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 aren’t just great sports cars—they’re a time capsule from when driving was about connection, not connectivity. In a world obsessed with screens and specs, these twins remind us that joy is found in the journey, not just the destination. If you want one of the last true driver’s cars under $40K, your options are shrinking—don’t let these slip by.