Future Speculations: Toyota GR 86's Next-Gen Hybrid Powertrain

It has been three years since Toyota introduced the second generation of their 2021 GR 86 coupe sport, alongside its Subaru BRZ counterpart. However, the rumor-mail is already full of speculations regarding the third series generation. Some sources even suggest a launch date along the possible powertrain - in the upcoming year 2025, and a three-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with a hybrid system.

For more than a year, reports regarding this specific scenario of platform and powertrain combination have been in the air. Initially, we tried to conceal these reports back in October 2022, but since then, two other narratives have occurred. One suggests an earlier arrival in 2025, trimmed with a 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain. The second declares that the next GR86 will debut in 2028, equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged hybrid engine.

The first scenario seems more probable. According to the latest report, the engine is expected to be the same one used in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla, but with a power output of over 300 hp. Besides, it will fit some form of hybridization akin to that found in the Land Cruiser 250 and the forthcoming Lexus GX. This configuration implies that it will keep its front-engine/rear-wheel-drive layout, while still providing an automatic transmission option and a manual gearbox.

Keep in mind that the report comes from the Japanese BestCar and does not cite any specific sources.

Of course, developing a low-volume sports car doesn’t suit most automakers. That is why Subaru and Toyota worked together on GR86/BRZ in the first place. If Toyota opts for its engine for the next GR86 generation, it will probably mark the end of collaboration between the two brands in regards to the sports car series.

This will also mean the end of BRZ unless Subaru decides to do it alone in elaborating a successor for the compact sports coupe.