Subaru BRZ, Toyota 86, and Scion FR-S: A Tale of Collaborative Engineering and Shared Design

The Subaru BRZ, Toyota 86, and Scion FR-S now known as the Toyota 86 after the Scion brand was discontinued, share a nearly identical design. They are a testament to the power of collaboration between automakers, sharing a core platform and development process. This article explores the key reasons behind their visual similarities and how they were developed under a joint venture aimed at creating an affordable, rear-wheel-drive sports car.

Joint Development: A Collaborative Effort

The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86, along with the Scion FR-S, were developed under a joint development program between Subaru and Toyota. This strategic collaboration aimed to create a lightweight rear-wheel-drive sports car. The shared resources, technology, and cost savings from this partnership were key in bringing these vehicles to market.

Shared Platform: A Common Foundation

Another critical factor in the design similarities of the BRZ, 86, and FR-S is the shared platform. All three vehicles are built on the same platform which contributes to their comparable dimensions, proportions, and overall design. The shared chassis and engineering ensure that the cars perform in a similar manner, enhancing the driving experience for enthusiasts.

Styling Influence: A Shared Conceptual Foundation

While each brand has its own design language, the styling of the BRZ and 86 was heavily influenced by the initial concept created during their joint development. This resulted in very similar exterior and interior designs, with only minor differences in branding and trim details. These subtle distinctions allow each model to have its unique identity while maintaining a cohesive appearance.

Target Market: Enthusiasts at the Core

The cars were designed to appeal to enthusiasts looking for an affordable, fun-to-drive sports coupe. This target market influenced the design choices to prioritize performance and driving dynamics over radical appearance changes. The unified design approach aligns with the needs and expectations of sports car enthusiasts, ensuring these vehicles remain relevant in a competitive market.

Brand Identity: Adding Personal Touches

While the visual similarities are substantial, each brand emphasizes its own unique features. Subaru focuses on its all-wheel-drive heritage and performance capabilities, while Toyota highlights the sporty and fun-to-drive aspects. This branding approach allows each model to find its niche in the market, despite the visual similarities. The rebranding of the Scion FR-S as the Toyota 86 further solidifies this market positioning.

In Summary: The similarities in appearance among the Subaru BRZ, Toyota 86, and Scion FR-S stem from their collaborative development, shared platform, and targeted marketing strategy. This unified design appeals to sports car enthusiasts who value a consistent and high-performance driving experience across different brands.