Which is the Better Reliable Coupe: Subaru BRZ, Toyota GT86, or Scion FRS?
When it comes to selecting a reliable coupe, the Subaru BRZ, Toyota GT86, and Scion FRS present a compelling choice for enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Despite their respective badges and slight differences in packaging, these cars share many similarities. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of these vehicles, focusing on their reliability, performance, and overall value for money.
The BRZ, GT86, and FRS: A Closer Look
Note on Terminology: It’s important to note that the Toyota GT86 and Scion FRS are essentially the same car, as they were co-developed by Subaru and Toyota. Similarly, the Scion FRS is a rebadged version of the Toyota GT86. The Subaru BRZ is a similar model, making all three vehicles effectively the same in terms of mechanical components and performance.
Reliability and Dependability
The reliability data available for the Subaru BRZ suggests that it performs exceptionally well, particularly in later model years. However, the 2013 model year was marked by some growing pains due to design issues. It is generally accepted that sports and performance cars often come with a list of quirks, but this is not typically the case for the BRZ, GT86, and FRS.
According to various reviews and feedback from owners, all three cars exhibit excellent reliability despite being high-performance sports cars. Mechanically, these vehicles are identical, with no difference in reliability or dependability. The same holds true for minor bug fixes and updates, which are handled uniformly by the manufacturers.
Performance and Power
While these coupes are designed for a high-performance driving experience, they might be slightly under-powered compared to other sports cars in their segment. However, this minimal power gap doesn’t significantly impact their performance, making them excellent choices for both track days and daily use.
The BRZ, GT86, and FRS are all equipped with a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine that delivers responsive performance and excellent fuel efficiency. With a four-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, these cars offer a satisfying driving experience while maintaining a relatively affordable price point.
Kimono and Badge Differences
The only significant difference between these cars lies in their badges and minor cosmetic tweaks. Scion FRS might have specific trim pieces and possibly some differences in trim levels, but these differences do not impact the core reliability and performance of the car.
From a manufacturing standpoint, all three cars are built by Subaru, and they share the same shop manuals. This consistency ensures that owners and mechanics can work on these cars with the same level of confidence and expertise.
Price and Warranty Coverage
Selecting which car to purchase ultimately comes down to the best deal on price and warranty coverage. While all three cars are reliable and offer similar performance, the choice can be influenced by factors such as residual value, manufacturer support, and overall cost of ownership.
Owners of the BRZ, GT86, and FRS often find satisfaction in getting the most for their money. They can choose the option that aligns best with their budget and provides the best warranty coverage, allowing them to enjoy their car for many years without major concerns about reliability.
Conclusion
In summary, the Subaru BRZ, Toyota GT86, and Scion FRS are all excellent choices for those seeking a reliable and high-performance coupe. Despite their minor differences, these cars offer impressive reliability, consistent performance, and a cost-effective ownership experience. Choosing the best option ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget.
Whether you opt for a Subaru, Toyota, or Scion model, you can rest assured that you are getting a car that will deliver performance, reliability, and satisfaction. Go for the better deal in terms of price and warranty coverage, and you won't go wrong with any of these models.