My FH5 Log: Scene Stealer!

When the Toyota GR86 and the second-generation Subaru BRZ were launched in 2021, they were expected to be the stars of the show. However, the Japanese arrival of the Chevrolet Corvette C8 stole their thunder and went on to win Japan's Performance Car of the Year award. Why?

That's an interesting but silly question. Why did the C8 Corvette win the award that was supposed to be for the second-generation ToyoBaru twin coupes? Before that, let's have a quick re-introduction of these cars.

The Toyota GR86 and the second-generation Subaru BRZ were unveiled in 2021. They are built on an improved version of the signature platform, with upgraded suspension and chassis for better cornering and traction. The flat-4 engine has been increased from 2.0L to 2.4L, resulting in more horsepower and torque.

The eighth-generation Corvette is no longer the Corvette the world knows. For the first time in its history, it's been morphed into a mid-engined supercar, a move that displeased most Corvette purists. Being the first production mid-engined car from General Motors, the C8 Corvette is powered by an all-new 6.2L LT2 V8 engine with 495HP of power and 470lb-ft of torque. Mated to a Corvette-first 8-speed Double Clutch Gearbox, it does 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds and flat-out in 312kph. It features a brand-new Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 which reads the road every millisecond and adapts in about 10 to 15 milliseconds, as well as double wishbone suspension with height adjustable capability.

The Chevrolet C8 Corvette defeated the second-generation Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 to become the 2021-2022 Japan Performance Car of the Year, the first for an American-made car to win the title.

With Horizon Mexico's smallest circuit track set in the town of Guanajuato becoming my laboratory, the second-generation ToyoBaru coupe twins joined forces to battle against the C8 Corvette. The question is, will they beat the mid-engined American monster machine? Let's roll the tape.

And here are the results...

BRZ ZD8 - 1m00.077s

GR86 - 59.526s

C8 Corvette - 55.005s

The C8 Corvette massively defeated the second-generation ToyoBaru twin coupes with such margins. It's no wonder the Japanese motoring press turned their faces away from them in favor of the Corvette.

Despite being defeated by the Chevrolet C8 Corvette in the title of 2021 Japan's Performance Car of the Year Award, both the GR86 and the BRZ are still one of the best sports cars of the early 2020s because of their affordability, accessible dynamics, and limitless tuning possibilities to turn these reasonably fast cars around. Speaking of which, it's time to reward the ToyoBaru twins for the hard work they've done today. In the spirit of Let's ¡Go!, how about a little Making Drama to spice things up? But first...

The GR86, for the first time in Horizon Mexico, is donning the role of Himitsu no AiPri's main character, Himari Aozora. Suits her personality. As for the BRZ...

My BRZ is donning the role of Himitsu no AiPri's other main character, Mitsuki Hosihkawa. When you look at them, they remind you of the two heroines from "Himitsu no AiPri" who are known for their idol activities across the metaverse. Today is "AiPriVerse Day!"

With the ToyoBaru twins versed in, the GR86 will battle against the competition in a neon-packed EventLab creation called "Neon City Race". At the same time, the BRZ takes on what's known to be an EventLab re-enactment of Malaysia's Genting Highlands, where the mountain roads evoke the drivers' Initial D fantasies. As MC AIMU would say, "AiPriVerse Day!"

Who performed better? Himari or Mitsuki?

The GR86 and BRZ are the fruits of the wonderful collaboration between Toyota and Subaru. These two cars are fit to take on the bold challenges of the Reiwa era. These cars may not live forever in the age of electrification, but the 86 and the BRZ have created an impressive legacy that will be remembered forever for many generations.

Together they stand, united they fall.

My FH5 Log: BRZ-bub

Remember the Toyota GR86 back in the Forza Horizon 5 Summer Party? Guess what? Its Subaru BRZ equivalent made its way into the game during the Winter Wonderland update and things wouldn't get even more complicated than this.

Obtained as a prize car in Week 3 of the Forza Horizon 5 Winter Wonderland series update, the second-generation Subaru BRZ completes the Reiwa-era ToyoBaru coupe twins, giving players plenty of time to debate. I know the GR86 and the BRZ are built in the same factory, but truth be told, the BRZ is slightly older than the GR86. No need for the chicken and egg debate.

The Subaru BRZ ZD8 is the evolution of the entry-level FR sports coupe that became the stepping stone of the collaboration between Toyota and Subaru.

Running on the improved version of its bespoke platform, the second-generation BRZ delivers improved dynamics and handling compared to its predecessor. Under the hood, the size of the BOXER D-4S engine was increased from its predecessor's 2.0L to 2.4L, meaning the power output is now bumped at a dramatic 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque.

The second-generation BRZ is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AT. Both variants feature Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which consists of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support.

A GT300-class Subaru BRZ was crowned the class champion at the Autobacs Super GT 2021 Series, a first for Subaru.

The added power and improved dynamics made the second-generation BRZ better to drive than its predecessor. Therefore, it feels so much more addictive and more fun to drive. I know. I said that while driving its GR86 equivalent back at the Summer Party but this is the Subaru perspective and because this is the only Subaru with the stick shift available, it feels like this is the only fun-to-drive Subaru to drive now that the WRX STI is officially dead.

Sounds sad but let's find out how much improvement the second-generation BRZ gained compared to its predecessor.

You may remember back in the summer, I tested the GR86 equivalents on a hill climb towards the caldera and found out that the new model is quicker than the first one. What about the Subie equivalents?

This time, we're going downhill and dirty, which is a challenge for a rear-wheel-drive car like the BRZ but hey, if Lia Block can rally the BRZ to victory, why not in Mexico? Putting faith in the Subaru badges donned in these rear-wheel-drive wonders, it's time to let them rip all the way down and dirty.

Roll the tape.

And now the results...

BRZ ZC6 - 4m15.038s

BRZ ZD8 - 4m07.581s

Talk about a massive improvement compared to the previous model! Guess the ToyoBaru collaboration really leveled up with this one.

The second-generation Subaru BRZ, the only Subie with the stick shift available in the Land of the Rising Sun, proved its worth with the added power and improved dynamics to keep up with the challenges of the new normal. Unlike the chicken and the egg, the Reiwa-era BRZ goes to show that it came first before the mega-popular Toyota GR86 steals its spotlight.

I was hoping for a little comparison between the two but for now, the Reiwa-era ToyoBaru coupe twins will be united because they held a grudge against this...

Yes, I know, it's a C8 Corvette, the one that stole the Japan 2021 Performance Car of the Year award from them. Still, this is going to be a payback I'm looking forward to...

Watch this space.

My FM Log: Reiwa no BRZ

The Subaru BRZ ZD8 is the only proper sports car in the Subaru lineup to have a 6-speed manual gearbox and here in the all-new Forza Motorsport, I got the chance to drive what's known to be the only Subie with a stick shift.

Before driving this latest BRZ, let's have a quick info about this model.

The second-generation Subaru BRZ is the evolution of the entry-level FR sports coupe that became the stepping stone of the collaboration between Toyota and Subaru.

Running on the improved version of its bespoke platform as well as the reworked suspension and chassis, the second-generation BRZ delivers improved dynamics and handling compared to its predecessor. Under the hood, the size of the BOXER D-4S engine was increased from its predecessor's 2.0L to 2.4L, meaning the power output is now bumped at a dramatic 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque.

The BRZ is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AT and both variants feature Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which consists of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support.

A GT300-class Subaru BRZ was crowned the class champion at the Autobacs Super GT 2021 Series, a first for Subaru.

Satisfied with its resume, the Subaru BRZ of the Reiwa era managed to redefine what a reasonably fast car should be on the track. Easy, agile, and down-to-earth accessible for drivers of different skill levels. Because this is the second-generation model, it feels so much more addictive and more fun to drive, taking this reasonably fast car a step to ascension. It kind of reminds me of its Toyota equivalent that I drove back in FH5 but still, no time for flashbacks. It's time for affirmative action.

Paying a visit to Little Miss Silent Suzuka, the BRZ ZD8 is prepared for a one-lap run around the track, demonstrating its improved dynamics and added power from the increased size of its boxer-four engine. Let's roll the tape.

My lap time is 2m43.632s. Decent enough to please Silent Suzuka.

With the added power and improved dynamics, the second-generation Subaru BRZ proved its worth.

 It's sad to see that this is the only Subaru in the lineup to have a manual gearbox, meaning this is the only stick shift car Subarists will drive since the discontinuation of the WRX STi in 2019.

 Although it may not last long in the age of the new normal, Subarists will be grateful that the second-generation BRZ is the only fun-to-drive Subaru to drive on the road and on the track, and here in Forza Motorsport, it's an honor to drive the only Subie with the stick shift.

Domo arigato, BRZ. You made Subarists proud.

My GT7 Log: A decade of 86 and BRZ

2022 marks the 10th anniversary of the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ twin coupes and what better way to celebrate a decade of the twin FR coupes that rocked the street scene than discovering the evolution of the ToyoBaru twins.

Okay, so where should we start? Oh yes! The beginning, of course!

The Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ made their world premiere at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show and then went on sale in the Spring of 2012 with the BRZ first in late March 2012 and then the 86 a month later. Under the hood, the 86 and the BRZ are powered by a 2.0L boxer-four D-4S engine that produces 200PS of power and 205Nm of torque while mated to either a 6-speed AT or a 6-speed MT. Thanks to this engine powerplant, both of these coupes have a low center of gravity and because of that, they have accessible handling, the hallmark of the 86 and the BRZ, and because being JDM machines, speedo boys expressed endless creativities with these machines courtesy of aftermarket tuning potential.

In 2016, both the 86 and the BRZ received a minor change featuring a revised front, new interior, and a slight upgrade on its 2.0L flat-four engine, producing 7PS more than the pre-facelifted models. Not only that, both of these models now come with improved springs and dampers as well as increased spot welding points on the rear pillars, allowing for better steering response and ride comfort and with the optional Sachs dampers, the handling is slightly improved.

Fast forward to the year 2021, the Toyota GR 86 and the second-generation Subaru BRZ have been unveiled. Running on the improved version of its signature platform, the new models have improved the suspension and chassis for improved cornering abilities as well as better traction. Under the hood, the flat-4 engine that contributed to the car's low center of gravity had its displacement up from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L, resulting in an increased power output of 235PS and 250Nm of torque while mated to either a 6-speed manual or auto.

And there you have it, a decade of 86 and BRZ well summed up for your nostalgic pleasure. Although I had a blast getting to know the evolution of the ToyoBaru twin coupes, there's something missing...Of course! Let's compare them and find out which of these twins is the alpha. This will be the showdown between Team 86 and Team BRZ. It's going to be out of this world.

Using the Streets of Willow Springs segment from California's Willow Springs International Raceway as the venue for the ideal turf war, it's time to find out which side is the best. Are you with Team 86 or Team BRZ? Let's roll the tape.

With two sides done their laps in the Streets of Willow Springs, here are the results;

86 - 1:31.562

BRZ - 1:31.874

86 F/L - 1:31.314

BRZ F/L STi Sport - 1:30.160

GR86 - 1:26.963

BRZ II - 1:27.360

It's a 2:1 split decision in favor of Team 86, meaning that despite being the same machines, it's no wonder why most speedo boys love to be with Team 86 rather than Team BRZ. What a shocker as such but anyway...

The 86 and BRZ are fruits of the wonderful collaboration between Toyota and Subaru and with their latest versions fit to take on the bold challenges of the Reiwa era, these two sides are gearing their brave faces on as they're ready to fight to the death in this ever-changing unstable world we live in. These cars may not live forever in the age of electrification but the 86 and the BRZ have created an impressive legacy that will be remembered forever for many generations to come.

Whether you're Team 86 or Team BRZ, in this unstable world, these machines are clear reminders that you, speedo boys, must fulfill their destinies until the true endgame comes sooner than later.

As always, enjoy these new machines in GT7!

Toyota GR 86 (ZN8)

Almost a decade ago, Toyota roars back to the sports car business with the 86, a rear-wheel-drive compact sports car built in collaboration with Subaru. It became one of the most popular Japanese sports cars ever made and it landed a role as the hero car from MF GHOST, a comic book made by the same man who did Initial D. It really is the spiritual successor to the legendary Sprinter Trueno AE86. It's the Reiwa era and Toyota's ready for the new normal with an all-new model now called GR 86.

2022 Toyota GR 86

Priced at 2,799,000 Japanese Yen (around $28,000), the new Toyota GR 86 proudly carries over where its predecessor left off while still delivering the same accessible dynamics coveted by speedo boys worldwide. Although it works just like its Subaru twin, the BRZ, it's cheaper to own than its Subaru equivalent, which is surprisingly flinching for speedo boys looking for a reasonably fast sportscar on a budget.

2022 Toyota GR 86

Like the new Subaru BRZ, the Toyota GR 86 features a dramatic exterior design that is sharper-looking than the previous model it replaces, giving speedo boys plenty of reasons to get tempted to drive one and intoxicated by the accessible dynamics this street hero possesses.

2022 Toyota GR 86 interior

The GR 86's new interior is all about being driver-focused and race-inspired, just as what speedo boys wanted for a sportscar like this. Of course, like the previous model, it's got two rear seats which are deemed challenging to squeeze into, and ample boot space for some grocery trips to resupply your man cave. Whatever floats their boats, the GR 86 is all about getting ready for another weekend at the car meet.

2022 Toyota GR 86

The GR 86 utilizes the improved version of its signature platform used by its predecessor. While the new model is similarly sized compared to the old one, the sport-tuned suspension and chassis have been updated to make it more enjoyable to drive than the previous model. On the road and on the track, the new GR 86 is all about stretching itself to entertain its drivers with its rewarding dynamics which are deemed fun for all levels. Great one, Toyota.

Under the hood, the flat-four boxer engine got its size increased from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L, resulting in a slightly improved power output of 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque. It has a WLTC-calculated fuel economy of 12km/L for the 6-speed manual variant and 11.8km/L for the 6-speed AT variant.

Just like the new BRZ, automatic variants of the GR 86 feature Driver Assist Technology, consisting of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support. Manual variants don't get one, of course.

The arrival of the Toyota GR 86 shows that sports cars can still shine in the new normal. With its new design, interior, performance, and dynamics, the reborn Hachiroku promises to be a must-have for speedo boys who are driving like there's no tomorrow because, pretty soon, there won't be. Thanks to Japan's imminent move to eradicate ICE-powered cars, the Hachiroku of the Reiwa era would be the last one speedo boys will ever experience.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Subaru BRZ ZD8

A decade ago, Subaru and Toyota collaborated on a new rear-wheel-drive sportscar project that gave birth to the two icons; the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ. The Toyota side is a spiritual rebirth of the iconic AE86 Sprinter Trueno and Corolla Levin while the Subaru side is, let's just say, a sacrilege to Subaru's image as an AWD specialist and treason to Subaru's heritage if you may. It's the Reiwa era and the era of a new normal we live in and as Toyota and Subaru unveiled their new versions, the second-generation BRZ goes first.

2022 Subaru BRZ

With prices start at 3,080,000 Japanese yen plus additional costs, the second-generation Subaru BRZ joins the list of Reiwa era Japanese sportscars spearheaded by Toyota's GR Supra and it's proof that in the midst of the new normal, Japan still makes sports cars speedo boys will enjoy.

2022 Subaru BRZ

Although the new model is similarly sized compared to its predecessor, thanks to the fact that it uses an improved version of its signature platform instead of the SGP that today's Subarus don, the new styling really means business for the second-generation BRZ. From its dramatic new front design to its sharp new rear angle, every way you look at the new model is quintessential and you'll have plenty of reasons to swap your old BRZ for the new one. Tempted? Well, you should be.

2022 Subaru BRZ interior

The new interior is all about being driver-focused and race-inspired especially when you can't get enough toying with the switches in the dashboard as well as its dramatic speedo that is going to be the target of speedo boys who are busy doing speedo boy stuff while driving at the Wangan expressway. Of course, like the previous model, it's got two rear seats which are deemed to be difficult to squeeze into, and some room in the back for some grocery trips to resupply your man cave. Either way, the new interior is one of the many reasons you can't get enough with the new BRZ.

2022 Subaru BRZ

A new generation calls for a new engine and for the second-generation BRZ, the size of its BOXER D-4S engine has been increased from 2.0L to 2.4L. As a result, the power output is now bumped at a dramatic 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque. It has a WLTC-calculated fuel economy of 12km/L for the 6-speed manual variant and 11.8km/L for the 6-speed AT variant.

Apart from the added power from its new FA24 engine, the new BRZ features an upgraded version of its signature platform which makes it more huggable on the road and more rigid compared to the previous model. They have improved the suspension and chassis to make it more fun to drive than the previous model and it's got better traction as well.

The automatic variants of the second-generation BRZ feature Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which consists of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support. Manual variants don't get one but who cares?

The second-generation Subaru BRZ is ready to pick up where the previous BRZ left off and thanks to its improved dynamics, new styling, new interior, and the FA24 engine, this is going to be the BRZ speedo boys will never forget and with the imminent doom to the internal combustion engine, the BRZ of the Reiwa era is one on the bucket list and speedo boys are ready to spend their hard-earned cash buying this one.

Available colors: Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Ignition Red, Sapphire Blue Pearl, and WR Blue Pearl.

Photo: Subaru