@@Carlos.Riveralol, maybe 10 cars blew out of 20k sold? Seems like you won't drive because you might get into an accident in the first place because probability doesn't matter to you.
@@milesfathiI’d just take the oil pan off and fix the issue but that’s kinda annoying to have to do on a brand new car that’s why I bought Hyundai🤷🏾♂️
That GR logo where it spins like a crank and lights on each side looking like the boxer pistons on the dash on start up is a very cool touch that i never noticed before.
This is the car I would choose if I were to buy new today, probably the best chassis out there for the money. Good balance with the engine and trans, nice handling. Awesome car.
I'm very tempted, myself. For the money saved, I would drive the balls off of it until the engine goes then swap it with either a turbo FA 2.4 from a WRX or older STi engine.. or LS swap. Not very original but with how light the car is, probably incredibly fun. Might throw off the weight distribution, though. The other option is spending another 20K+ for a 1SS 1LE track package Camaro and keep it stock for a while, and just enjoy the warranty. Stock power levels on the Camaro would be plenty for the road.. and the Camaro's have very impressive track times, rivaling Italian exotic cars that are 5x the cost.
I got a 17 GT86 a few months ago. Used with 32k miles for $23k OTD - was cross shopping the Miata and GR86, then I found mine as certified pre-owned. Driven all 3 and I'm of course biased now, but I think the most "complete" car is the GR86, the best handling and feeling car is the Miata, and the last gen 86 is the most raw/feels like an older car. I couldn't say no for the price, and I really don't regret it. I live near Topher in Michigan and am planning on doing an inch lift in the winter lol. The one weak point of mine is the mediocre AISIN m/t, it's definitely notchy but doesn't always feel amazing to shift. 5th grinds when my RPMs are too high or low when shifting. I think the GR has the same one. I thought the Miata's shifter was better, although I hear people have issues with them sometimes. You get what you pay for in a budget car. My plans are to daily it for a few years, then make it into a track car and go FI until the engine dies. Maybe build a new one or k-swap depending on how it goes. I absolutely love this car
@@hhaste Why would anyone compare this car with a Camaro? Both cars are in totally different segment. People thinking about buying a GR86 wouldn't think about buying a Camaro and vice versa.
Hey @TheTopher, I really like this new segment at the end with the cold start, warm start, and drive by sounds (starting at 22:35). You should do more of them if you can. I already use your videos to compare interior sounds between cars. The cold start, warm start, and drives by could provide good comparisons of exterior sounds between cars. Keep it up!
@@dontcrossthemustard I don't see how right or left turns affects it more than the other way. Maybe the way the baffles are or whatever. High G turns for an extended period on any Subaru with the stock oil pans will cause them to blow.
My last Subaru was a 2007 WRX STI that I bought in CA new and drive it in Michigan for about 4 years. Snow tires in the winter and good summer tires in the summer. I’ve driven the new STIs and they don’t compare at all. I sold it with 47k miles and I drove that car HARD lol. Definitely got rid of it at the right time I think before anything catastrophic happened haha 😂
Great video! I own this EXACT spec (minus the black plastic trunk strip) but with the GR fender vents, and the subwoofer. Couldn't be more happy with it, especially with the sub and the gr exhaust. Makes a world of difference compared to my friends GR86 PMT with the base exhaust and no sub. Would highly recommend the sub and gr exhaust!
The GT86 was my dream car from 2013, until this thing came out. I'd love to drive one, and eventually own one someday, because this is a perfect balance between handling and its a great daily....just not good for tracks until you modify that D-45
I recently put a Corsa on my GR86, and I love how little drone there is and how amazing it sounds, but the pops sound like gunshots with that exhaust on almost every single downshift. It’s absurd, and I commute daily with mine so I can’t be doing that. I would love this GR exhaust but I can’t justify $1700 for this catback. Ordered an MRT sport touring (thanks for the discount!) to tone it down, and hoping to have a lot of fun with it.
love how you showed this master piece, I love its simplicity, how it handles and feels, your video gave a very good idea and Im now sold to GR, i will be test driving soon, thank you for a good show
These models GR86/BR-Z remind me of the best and favorite car I've ever had my 1994 Acura Integra GS-R Coupe (Milano Red). Simplicity is a wonderful thing, no clutter and you really don't see cars like these anymore. I think I would go for the Toyota, Subaru is a weird company and I've had solid, reliable past experiences with Toyota. But yeah I miss my GS-R so much and that redline. Nice sporty fun car, I love how easy it is to throw around and like you said the simplicity is great. Enjoy. 😁👍
I recently got a Track bRed GR86. Best advice I can give anyone who owns one is buy a wireless Android Auto / Apple Play adapter, plug it into the center console and keep your phone in the little door handle compartment by your elbow.
Topher, i drove this and an SS1LE after watching your reviews to see how they compared in the reasonably priced rwd sports coupe category. Im in the market for something sub 55k and fun. The SS1LE def has a smoother ride, a more stable planted feel, more torque and a great sound. Its also track ready and warrantied. HOWEVER, its not for me. I found the sightlines horrid. The instrument cluster has a high cowl blocking the road. The car does not feel tossable and nimble (it feels planted and grippy) compared to the 86. I walked away realizing its a car you must consider if you want to track a lot (or want to modify a Miata or buy a higher spec Porsche). For the street, ripping around offramps, twisty narrow mountain roads, Id give the easy win to the 86. Now please Subaru fix the engine oiling issue.
An issue found was that starvation comes from the oil pan RTV sealant. It was over "gooped" from the factory on both brz and gr86, and it breaks off and gets stuck in the pick-up dropping pressure as well. Drop the oil pan, clean clean off gasket (obviously everything else associated), and reseal. As for only hard right turns, that sounds like baffling in the pan is needed. Which is a pretty common thing on most track cars.
Thank you for making these. It may be closest I ever get to driving my dream car. Year after year I save and I save and don’t quite make it or something comes up. But your povs give me hope in a way haha. Anyways love your drives!
3:12 credits to 900BRZ for the findings on the oil pressure drop/starvation on hard right turns. Edit: I really considered getting a 86 in this exact configuration, but looks like it’s off the table for now.
I mean - if you're going to avoid a car based on issues you'll prob be waiting a while because virtually every car has 'some' bad quirk or issue - and in this case it seems to be something that can be resolved at some point with a mod - it has a warranty, and not to mention it's basically only track related. (I own the BRZ with zero issues for example).
@@MKu64 the biggest issue is that toyota refuses to warranty the car because of "track use / abuse" when its been advertised as a track capable car, and the car comes with a free track day. The issue itself isn't the worst thing ever but if toyota themselves refuses a warranty repair on a car that was built to be tracked id stay away from that car too, even if i didnt plan on tracking it. I Was planning on buying a GR86 but with everything coming out I will most likely choose something else along with many other people. Glad to hear you have no issues though it really is a nice car, brz or 86 things are clean
@@MKu64 That’s the thing though- Who knows when Toyota/Subaru will address the issue, especially on multiple vehicles that have the FA24 (86, BRZ, WRX). I don’t want to be paranoid on making right turns knowing it might have a catastrophic failure due to oil starvation.
@@Mienboi821510 I know what you're saying, but at the same time - these issues haven't been 'just making a right turn'.. they've shown themselves on prolonged high G track turns at high temp and repeatedly. Something not really possible / likely on the street for most uses. Additionally, it's covered by warranty anyway. Not that it excuses it - but just that given every car make will have some issue - I'm not really going to worry about it and enjoy the car. Keep in mind the engine design hasn't changed much - and it's not like we see older versions of this engine constantly breaking down. For the note about 'not warranting the issue' - unfortunately I think that might be local to the 'US?' Have had no indication of that where I live - at least not for 'non-track use'. (Or maybe just Subaru - which is my only experience so far on these). Don't get me wrong - I completely understand the hesitation - I just look at it in perspective of how other cars have been and say YOLO 😅 Regarding it being advertised as a track car but not treating it as such from the warranty perspective - I agree that's bad form.
@@justanotherjew223Agree. They could make most of the concern go away by just stating more clearly the criteria they will use to determine whether they will cover engine replacements. Right now the language allows them to have complete discretion and deny for any reason.
This car is a blast! Great review excellent driving & perfect shift points and you stopped talking when you drove it hard so we can hear that awesome motor! Thank you! You got a sub & Up!
i have the same identical car,and just had Subaru install the rear under bumper spoiler!It looks great and sounds great!i can't believe i have to go to Subaru to have accessories installed on my GR 86
@TheTopher, what do you think the logical fix is for the trackability issue long term? Fix the oil system (baffles, dry sump, etc)? Or switch to a Toyota engine? I think people forget how much a 3 cyl turbo or 4 cyl turbo is going to not only bring the center of gravity way up but make this closer to the cost of the Supra 2.0.
Right now there isn’t a solution for the fa24 sadly. You could k24 swap it! But tbh it’s probably best to go with a previous gen car, Miata, or something else that has proven reliable for regular track work.
@TheTopher guess only time will tell. As a side note thank you for such high quality production and enjoyable videos! Been watching your content for about a year now and got a 23 BRZ and love it. Only really daily driving / spirited back country roads so it's perfect for me, but disappointed that Toyota/Subaru marketed as trackable and made this misstep.
@@wyattllc Heard this too. Apparently it'll be the same engine out of the GR Yaris with possibly some form of a hybrid system. Power estimates are near or just over 300HP.
@aceimperial8298 the biggest argument against this rumor is the existence of the Supra 2.0 with 255hp. Unless Toyota plans to eliminate the Supra 2.0 and keep only the 3.0
I have a 23 GR86 with the exact same tires, they honestly aren't that bad at all. People will complain about virtually ANYTHING. This car has pretty much no sound insulation, so you do hear pretty much everything, but that is a part of the cool-factor that this car offers.
Do you daily your 86? I am planning on getting one but am anxious whether this car is dailyable. I’ve always driven automatic AWD SUVs so this would be my first RWD vehicle which I want to learn manual with. How are is the Winter season with this car? Are you also on stock wheels?
Man you seem really mad about the oil pressure issue. Lol. Hopefully they will get that sorted and if so these will be top tier track cars. Everything I heard sounded great. This is one of the last true sports cars we will be able to get.
He spent his own hard earned money on one (BRZ instead of the 86 but same car) so I say he has a right to be pissed lol. Especially after him having debated between buying this car and the WRX (which has been confirmed by WRX_SUB1 to not have this oil pressure issue) So I'm sure he is kicking himself in the foot for not going for the other car as he is a spirited driving enthusiast. I hope some solution can be found as so far the baffle oil pan 900BRZ tried did not do anything.
My friend has a ls3 swapped Saturn Sky with upgraded trans as well. He’s talking about getting a GR86 and swapping the motor and trans into the GR86, I’m all for it 🙂
I was close to buying one of these here in Germany. Sadly, only 1000 instead of 2000 got delivered and the dealer marked these things up like hell. A Premium trim manual would have cost me 40k€, which I wasnt gonna pay for this type of car, considering that the retail price of the previous gen was just 28-29k and 32k for special editions. I ended up ordering a i30N DCT for 37k, also because the delivery time of the GR86 would have been over a year...
Chris, Who can say how accurate they are but there are 'suggestions' Toyota is working on a 100% Toyota RWD sports car. Maybe next time, Toyota can build the BRZ for Subaru. 😉
They won’t. Toyota tried working with Subaru to make a car and their engines aren’t getting any better even with their help. Why use their engines to destroy their image? Another nail in the coffin for Subaru. They are not going to be in business in the next 15 years if they keep it up with the engine problems.
@@faheemabbas3965 a vast majority of subaru's sales are their crossover/suvs, so I doubt they will go out of business. Out of the enthusiast market however may be a possibility
@@faheemabbas3965I agree and Toyota essentially owns Subaru right now. Literally Toyoda san and his board owns a significant stake in Subaru. Honestly the only reason that Subaru is still kicking is the Toyota money they are piggy backing off of
@@dexstrat9229 I agree and Toyota essentially owns Subaru right now. Literally Toyoda San and his board owns a significant stake in Subaru. Honestly the only reason that Subaru is still kicking is the Toyota money they are piggy backing off of
I remember hearing a lot about M lights having oil starvation issue as well. Specifically the M240i from previous gen. Not sure about the current ones. But to me if hard cornering is not part of vehicle's equation during design, then it's not a true sports car.
if you aren't planning to track this car, I am assuming that oil issue isnt a concern. But it still makes me worry what else could be wrong with the car? Subaru really hasn't been great recently.
You’re literally the only person i’ve heard complain about the PS4S. They’re at the top in their segment but I think it’s mainly due to the sidewall height that makes them louder in this car
There may be a difference between PS4 and PS4S. I've never driven a PS4 but I've driven many vehicles with PS4S. I can say that the PS4S is very quiet.
@@NDEEZMiataGotta agree. I paid around $850 USD for my Remark catback and it both sounds and looks far better. There are too many other quality options out there to drop $1700 on the GR option.
@@tvtime2644 was the same story with the previous gen. The TRD was one of the most expensive exhausts, it was one of the worst sounding, and it droned lol The GR one sounds good here, but seems like nearly any catback will get a similar sound. $1700 for a catback that isn’t titanium or valved is nuts. To each their own though 🤷♂️ I wouldn’t be eager to replace it if it came on the car, but I definitely wouldn’t go out of my way to drop $1700 on it lol
Guys these just need a baffle plate in the oil pan, they are like $300 online. If you buy one of these immediately install the baffle plate and check the pan and pickup tube for debris as they are also having problems with that.
I put a pedal commander in my 24 GR86.. The 1st gen BRZ definitely needed it and I didn't think the GR86 needed it... but holy crap. I recommended it. lol
The first thing you would do is get away from Michelin brand tires? Nobody buying a $34k sports car for a nice quiet ride. Those P4S tires are imo the best possible tire they could have put on there. They are just about the best at every performance aspect of UHP summer tire. Props to them for now cheaping out on tires. Maybe some 17s with something more quiet and A/S friendly for cold weather.
I absolutely love this car, even though lots of people give it crap since it doesn't have a lot of power, but personally, I like a car that has better handling than power. Plus, knowing more about this car helps me when I get one later on, so thanks for the review! P.S, on a side note, as someone who's never driven a manual, how would you efficiently drive the GR86? Like what RPMs/speed should you shift at?
@@cabbagehead8082I agree on getting the Miata, but the average age for purchase on the first gen was 30+. You might see a 19 year old in a clapped out 2013-2020 though.
I am just learning manual this month and I am hoping to get good enough by the time the 2024 GR86 rolls out. I wanna buy that. Manual is so fun. I've been driving automatic for so much of my life but played Initial D. So its about time I learned manual. I'm so exciting but scary. Especially hills.
I need a sunroof! It's a really nice car, but my RSX is paid off, runs like a top, looks great and has a sunroof. (And a CD player lol) I guess I'm old school😂
If youre ever in the area PLEASE do a video driving your brz through the sterling heights/clinton twp area. Id love to just see the viewpoints of the car in the area I live. Clinton River Road also is a fun little road to drive down.
Probably just needs updated oil pan baffling. Not really a big deal as that’s an upgrade people do a lot of the time before tracking a car. Obviously probably shouldn’t be needed for a car that is labeled “performance” though. But much higher end performance cars have had issues during track driving too.
Hey @thetopher You mentioned liquid Molly to potentially help longevity of these fa24 engines and cars in general. What brand/product specifically do you recommend.
I have no way of obtaining a GR86 where I live. Could you please try and list all the modifications needed to turn the BRZ into GR86? Apart from the visual stuff of course. I don't plan to track my car but I want it to be more tail happy and fun to drive on the streets.
@@2liter I know you tried to be helpful, but that much is obvious. I'm asking about the details. How much stiffer on the rear, how kuch softer on the front? What kind of sway bar?
I just checked Toyota Canada. the GR Performance Exhaust is CAD$ 2609. I don't know if there are any Canadian viewers who can comment if that's worth it or not vs getting an aftermarket (like, considering the convenience of having it in the car already vs finding an aftermarket, getting it, installing it, etc)....
This car is amazing and I would 100% buy it as my first car but really don’t like how they changed the look from the 1st gen. Other than looks this is a perfect first car for me
i agree toyota should put the inline 4 from the taco in this and give us an option for a turbo from the factory. make this car come with the option of 278 hp from factory like the taco, people have been asking for a turbo on these cars for a very long time, as a 2016 frs owner, who will be buying a 2024 taco, i wish my frs had a turbo.
@@DoorTap the supra is a bmw engine which i do not like lets be real the supra is a re branded bmw z4, the 2024 taco is coming with a new 4 cycl turbo charged engine making 278 hp,. i think the 4 cyl turbo engine should be an option for an 86 and supra making more power then the current 4 cyl bmw engine in the supra as far as i know.
@@whereschavo3953 I agree but the taco motor is most likely going to be more catered to low end torque for trails and off-roading, I understand it’s a BMW motor. But it would make one of the most fun playful cars imo, and to my knowledge they’ve proven extremely reliable. Only way I can see them using taco motor is if it’s small, and if they change the cams for high rev range power
Dashboard buzz, ahh yes. You can be blindfolded passenger and still guess what car is this. My 20 years old Corolla have this "feature" too, but it's just a charm.
Someone made a video comparing the physical differences between the suspension, and the mounting for the components even, between the BRZ and GR86. Its killing me to find it again, as i Didnt save it. Aside from that, still wish they didn't have RTV issues if they couldnt even update the boxer design to something with less issues. BUT MAN i can tell it drives well when it runs. If I have a garage and spare motors Ill def grab one of these . I feel like thats the only way I can justify it lol
Topher. If PS4 was not good enough what tyre do u suggest? I'm waiting for the stock ps4 on my BRZ to wear a bit to replace em. But i didn't seem to find any better option. I dont plan to track my BRZ. Just some daily and chill touge drive.
Just spent my morning driving an incredible lakeside road in the GR86 here in beautiful British Columbia interior. Life is fun with these cars.
i’m basically jealous
Until it blow up because RTV oil starvation
@Carlos.Rivera I don't know man I've put 20k miles on this thing and I drive the HELL out of it. Still going strong.
@@Carlos.Riveralol, maybe 10 cars blew out of 20k sold? Seems like you won't drive because you might get into an accident in the first place because probability doesn't matter to you.
@@milesfathiI’d just take the oil pan off and fix the issue but that’s kinda annoying to have to do on a brand new car that’s why I bought Hyundai🤷🏾♂️
That GR logo where it spins like a crank and lights on each side looking like the boxer pistons on the dash on start up is a very cool touch that i never noticed before.
That’s so neat! Hard to unsee it now
Yes! In pre production cars it's the original twin piston badge fron the GT 86!
You know, the [||•]=(86)=[•||] :)
This is the car I would choose if I were to buy new today, probably the best chassis out there for the money. Good balance with the engine and trans, nice handling. Awesome car.
I'm very tempted, myself. For the money saved, I would drive the balls off of it until the engine goes then swap it with either a turbo FA 2.4 from a WRX or older STi engine.. or LS swap. Not very original but with how light the car is, probably incredibly fun. Might throw off the weight distribution, though. The other option is spending another 20K+ for a 1SS 1LE track package Camaro and keep it stock for a while, and just enjoy the warranty. Stock power levels on the Camaro would be plenty for the road.. and the Camaro's have very impressive track times, rivaling Italian exotic cars that are 5x the cost.
@@hhaste I actually didn't know Camaro's do well on track, thanks for the info :)
I got a 17 GT86 a few months ago. Used with 32k miles for $23k OTD - was cross shopping the Miata and GR86, then I found mine as certified pre-owned. Driven all 3 and I'm of course biased now, but I think the most "complete" car is the GR86, the best handling and feeling car is the Miata, and the last gen 86 is the most raw/feels like an older car. I couldn't say no for the price, and I really don't regret it. I live near Topher in Michigan and am planning on doing an inch lift in the winter lol.
The one weak point of mine is the mediocre AISIN m/t, it's definitely notchy but doesn't always feel amazing to shift. 5th grinds when my RPMs are too high or low when shifting. I think the GR has the same one. I thought the Miata's shifter was better, although I hear people have issues with them sometimes. You get what you pay for in a budget car.
My plans are to daily it for a few years, then make it into a track car and go FI until the engine dies. Maybe build a new one or k-swap depending on how it goes. I absolutely love this car
@@hhaste Why would anyone compare this car with a Camaro? Both cars are in totally different segment. People thinking about buying a GR86 wouldn't think about buying a Camaro and vice versa.
Only 200,000$ after market adjustment get it now at your local dealer!
Hey @TheTopher, I really like this new segment at the end with the cold start, warm start, and drive by sounds (starting at 22:35). You should do more of them if you can. I already use your videos to compare interior sounds between cars. The cold start, warm start, and drives by could provide good comparisons of exterior sounds between cars. Keep it up!
it may not be the perfect track vehicle, but it sure would be the perfect vehicle for Nascar!
Touche
what why?
@@Warboss777 Cuz only left turns.
@@Warboss777the oil pressure issue has been observed to cause issues around high G right hand turns.
@@dontcrossthemustard I don't see how right or left turns affects it more than the other way. Maybe the way the baffles are or whatever. High G turns for an extended period on any Subaru with the stock oil pans will cause them to blow.
FINALLY MORE OF THE GR86/BRZ VIDS LETS GOOOO
Really like this generation but I think it's ridiculous that the car that's designed to be tracked cannot be tracked lmao
Subaru been making shit for awhile.
yea really hoping toyota puts their own engine in the next generation
The first few words in the Toyota website are “Born in the track”
Reminds me of the FK8 Type R not being able to run 3 laps without overheating
My last Subaru was a 2007 WRX STI that I bought in CA new and drive it in Michigan for about 4 years. Snow tires in the winter and good summer tires in the summer. I’ve driven the new STIs and they don’t compare at all.
I sold it with 47k miles and I drove that car HARD lol. Definitely got rid of it at the right time I think before anything catastrophic happened haha 😂
One of the best if not the best affordable sports car! Beautiful simplicity , no turbos, no automatic gearbox👍
Great video! I own this EXACT spec (minus the black plastic trunk strip) but with the GR fender vents, and the subwoofer. Couldn't be more happy with it, especially with the sub and the gr exhaust. Makes a world of difference compared to my friends GR86 PMT with the base exhaust and no sub. Would highly recommend the sub and gr exhaust!
The car needs better tweeters and better amplifier.
Wow I can’t believe how quiet it sounds on video, even with this exhaust. Is it a lot louder in person?
I'm 6'1.5 and I find it difficult squeezing in some of these little sports cars. Nice to see the GR86 has enough space for the taller person.
Hello I am of similar height, Miatas are completely out of the question at this height, glad to know at least one small sports car fits
The GT86 was my dream car from 2013, until this thing came out. I'd love to drive one, and eventually own one someday, because this is a perfect balance between handling and its a great daily....just not good for tracks until you modify that D-45
Babe wake up, Topher released a new video
I recently put a Corsa on my GR86, and I love how little drone there is and how amazing it sounds, but the pops sound like gunshots with that exhaust on almost every single downshift. It’s absurd, and I commute daily with mine so I can’t be doing that. I would love this GR exhaust but I can’t justify $1700 for this catback. Ordered an MRT sport touring (thanks for the discount!) to tone it down, and hoping to have a lot of fun with it.
love how you showed this master piece, I love its simplicity, how it handles and feels, your video gave a very good idea and Im now sold to GR, i will be test driving soon, thank you for a good show
I love the videos! Cant wait for my 86 to arrive! When i do get my mine im going to get a beefier oil pump and just better oil system in general.
Great video! I feel like I'm learning how to drive a manual through by watching you drive!
Manual is pretty easy to learn, the hard part when starting out is figuring out the clutch.
These models GR86/BR-Z remind me of the best and favorite car I've ever had my 1994 Acura Integra GS-R Coupe (Milano Red). Simplicity is a wonderful thing, no clutter and you really don't see cars like these anymore. I think I would go for the Toyota, Subaru is a weird company and I've had solid, reliable past experiences with Toyota. But yeah I miss my GS-R so much and that redline. Nice sporty fun car, I love how easy it is to throw around and like you said the simplicity is great. Enjoy. 😁👍
These look stunning in person. The video doesn’t do justice to how beautiful this car truly is. Thanks for the review!
I recently got a Track bRed GR86. Best advice I can give anyone who owns one is buy a wireless Android Auto / Apple Play adapter, plug it into the center console and keep your phone in the little door handle compartment by your elbow.
One day I will have this car!! Definitely something Ima work hard for in the future, I love Toyota and I love this car
Getting mine tomorrow! 6 speed manual.
@@jimihendriixxhow is it? Would you recommend it to someone who’s saving up? Also automatic or manual to prefer for someone to pick
Sounds good! That should have been the OEM exhaust. I like how the exhaust sound transitions into engine noise at higher rpm.
Some cars have this exhaust.
That is a sexy machine. Worth the MSRP for the looks alone, lol.
Topher, i drove this and an SS1LE after watching your reviews to see how they compared in the reasonably priced rwd sports coupe category. Im in the market for something sub 55k and fun.
The SS1LE def has a smoother ride, a more stable planted feel, more torque and a great sound. Its also track ready and warrantied. HOWEVER, its not for me. I found the sightlines horrid. The instrument cluster has a high cowl blocking the road. The car does not feel tossable and nimble (it feels planted and grippy) compared to the 86. I walked away realizing its a car you must consider if you want to track a lot (or want to modify a Miata or buy a higher spec Porsche). For the street, ripping around offramps, twisty narrow mountain roads, Id give the easy win to the 86. Now please Subaru fix the engine oiling issue.
That's one reason why I love my BRZ - it's just that perfect blend of lightweight flickability and fun to drive factor!
This is a 30k car, and your budget is 55k, but you've only tried one other car. I promise you that you can find other good cars with your budget lol.
An issue found was that starvation comes from the oil pan RTV sealant. It was over "gooped" from the factory on both brz and gr86, and it breaks off and gets stuck in the pick-up dropping pressure as well. Drop the oil pan, clean clean off gasket (obviously everything else associated), and reseal. As for only hard right turns, that sounds like baffling in the pan is needed. Which is a pretty common thing on most track cars.
Big thanks to @900brz for this video on oil pressure drops on track: ruclips.net/video/4Jk5WTWoqt4/видео.html
Thanks! Still feel like we can find a solution without going all the way to a dry sump, at least for stock levels of grip.
Thank you for making these. It may be closest I ever get to driving my dream car. Year after year I save and I save and don’t quite make it or something comes up. But your povs give me hope in a way haha. Anyways love your drives!
3:12 credits to 900BRZ for the findings on the oil pressure drop/starvation on hard right turns.
Edit: I really considered getting a 86 in this exact configuration, but looks like it’s off the table for now.
I mean - if you're going to avoid a car based on issues you'll prob be waiting a while because virtually every car has 'some' bad quirk or issue - and in this case it seems to be something that can be resolved at some point with a mod - it has a warranty, and not to mention it's basically only track related. (I own the BRZ with zero issues for example).
@@MKu64 the biggest issue is that toyota refuses to warranty the car because of "track use / abuse" when its been advertised as a track capable car, and the car comes with a free track day. The issue itself isn't the worst thing ever but if toyota themselves refuses a warranty repair on a car that was built to be tracked id stay away from that car too, even if i didnt plan on tracking it. I Was planning on buying a GR86 but with everything coming out I will most likely choose something else along with many other people. Glad to hear you have no issues though it really is a nice car, brz or 86 things are clean
@@MKu64 That’s the thing though- Who knows when Toyota/Subaru will address the issue, especially on multiple vehicles that have the FA24 (86, BRZ, WRX). I don’t want to be paranoid on making right turns knowing it might have a catastrophic failure due to oil starvation.
@@Mienboi821510 I know what you're saying, but at the same time - these issues haven't been 'just making a right turn'.. they've shown themselves on prolonged high G track turns at high temp and repeatedly. Something not really possible / likely on the street for most uses. Additionally, it's covered by warranty anyway. Not that it excuses it - but just that given every car make will have some issue - I'm not really going to worry about it and enjoy the car.
Keep in mind the engine design hasn't changed much - and it's not like we see older versions of this engine constantly breaking down.
For the note about 'not warranting the issue' - unfortunately I think that might be local to the 'US?' Have had no indication of that where I live - at least not for 'non-track use'. (Or maybe just Subaru - which is my only experience so far on these).
Don't get me wrong - I completely understand the hesitation - I just look at it in perspective of how other cars have been and say YOLO 😅
Regarding it being advertised as a track car but not treating it as such from the warranty perspective - I agree that's bad form.
@@justanotherjew223Agree. They could make most of the concern go away by just stating more clearly the criteria they will use to determine whether they will cover engine replacements. Right now the language allows them to have complete discretion and deny for any reason.
I like watching videos by TheTopher :)
This car is a blast! Great review excellent driving & perfect shift points and you stopped talking when you drove it hard so we can hear that awesome motor! Thank you! You got a sub & Up!
Love the interior of these
@RedPanda_______I see your point and I agree, the exterior looks cool especially with the blue
i have the same identical car,and just had Subaru install the rear under bumper spoiler!It looks great and sounds great!i can't believe i have to go to Subaru to have accessories installed on my GR 86
@TheTopher, what do you think the logical fix is for the trackability issue long term? Fix the oil system (baffles, dry sump, etc)? Or switch to a Toyota engine? I think people forget how much a 3 cyl turbo or 4 cyl turbo is going to not only bring the center of gravity way up but make this closer to the cost of the Supra 2.0.
Right now there isn’t a solution for the fa24 sadly. You could k24 swap it! But tbh it’s probably best to go with a previous gen car, Miata, or something else that has proven reliable for regular track work.
@TheTopher guess only time will tell. As a side note thank you for such high quality production and enjoyable videos! Been watching your content for about a year now and got a 23 BRZ and love it. Only really daily driving / spirited back country roads so it's perfect for me, but disappointed that Toyota/Subaru marketed as trackable and made this misstep.
ive heard rumors that the next gen gr86 will no longer have subaru's boxer engine, but one of their own. Probably the carolla's 3cyl turbo.
@@wyattllc Heard this too. Apparently it'll be the same engine out of the GR Yaris with possibly some form of a hybrid system. Power estimates are near or just over 300HP.
@aceimperial8298 the biggest argument against this rumor is the existence of the Supra 2.0 with 255hp. Unless Toyota plans to eliminate the Supra 2.0 and keep only the 3.0
I have a 23 GR86 with the exact same tires, they honestly aren't that bad at all. People will complain about virtually ANYTHING. This car has pretty much no sound insulation, so you do hear pretty much everything, but that is a part of the cool-factor that this car offers.
Do you daily your 86? I am planning on getting one but am anxious whether this car is dailyable. I’ve always driven automatic AWD SUVs so this would be my first RWD vehicle which I want to learn manual with. How are is the Winter season with this car? Are you also on stock wheels?
I love the engine sound it makes, sounds like the old 86 from a certain car anime
Most people whining about the oil pressure at track events dont even drive them hard around turns or to the racetrack at all
Man you seem really mad about the oil pressure issue. Lol. Hopefully they will get that sorted and if so these will be top tier track cars. Everything I heard sounded great. This is one of the last true sports cars we will be able to get.
He spent his own hard earned money on one (BRZ instead of the 86 but same car) so I say he has a right to be pissed lol. Especially after him having debated between buying this car and the WRX (which has been confirmed by WRX_SUB1 to not have this oil pressure issue) So I'm sure he is kicking himself in the foot for not going for the other car as he is a spirited driving enthusiast. I hope some solution can be found as so far the baffle oil pan 900BRZ tried did not do anything.
@@Danter5435 of course, I would be too. It’s just not a tone I’m used to hearing from Topher on these car reviews. He’s usually such a chill cat.
There's one way to fix the car, just throw in a Toyota inline 4 engine and that would solve the issue lol.
DAAAAAAMMMNNNNNN I LOVE HOW IT SOUNDSSSS. I am currently planning on buying a 2024 GR86 Trueno Edition
My friend has a ls3 swapped Saturn Sky with upgraded trans as well. He’s talking about getting a GR86 and swapping the motor and trans into the GR86, I’m all for it 🙂
My GT86 makes the exact same sound. Really surprized me since i had to do a lot to get that sound not just a muffler
I was close to buying one of these here in Germany. Sadly, only 1000 instead of 2000 got delivered and the dealer marked these things up like hell. A Premium trim manual would have cost me 40k€, which I wasnt gonna pay for this type of car, considering that the retail price of the previous gen was just 28-29k and 32k for special editions. I ended up ordering a i30N DCT for 37k, also because the delivery time of the GR86 would have been over a year...
I've had a deposit down since February for this exact combo (minus the exhaust)...hopefully Subaru can get more on the road by the end of the year
sounds exactly like my 2019 forester, and the steering stalks exactly like my 2007 Outback
What a nice sound for a such small car
Toyota dashboards can never NOT rattle
Chris, Who can say how accurate they are but there are 'suggestions' Toyota is working on a 100% Toyota RWD sports car. Maybe next time, Toyota can build the BRZ for Subaru. 😉
They won’t. Toyota tried working with Subaru to make a car and their engines aren’t getting any better even with their help. Why use their engines to destroy their image?
Another nail in the coffin for Subaru.
They are not going to be in business in the next 15 years if they keep it up with the engine problems.
@@faheemabbas3965 a vast majority of subaru's sales are their crossover/suvs, so I doubt they will go out of business. Out of the enthusiast market however may be a possibility
@@faheemabbas3965I agree and Toyota essentially owns Subaru right now. Literally Toyoda san and his board owns a significant stake in Subaru. Honestly the only reason that Subaru is still kicking is the Toyota money they are piggy backing off of
@@dexstrat9229 I agree and Toyota essentially owns Subaru right now. Literally Toyoda San and his board owns a significant stake in Subaru. Honestly the only reason that Subaru is still kicking is the Toyota money they are piggy backing off of
I remember hearing a lot about M lights having oil starvation issue as well. Specifically the M240i from previous gen. Not sure about the current ones. But to me if hard cornering is not part of vehicle's equation during design, then it's not a true sports car.
I believe the issue was with the N55s, not B58s. So it would've been the M235i
@@willhart1523Yeah the m240i is pretty reliable and was definitely the best bmw car of the time. 2022+ m240i is hideous though.
if you aren't planning to track this car, I am assuming that oil issue isnt a concern. But it still makes me worry what else could be wrong with the car? Subaru really hasn't been great recently.
im really debating the 2024 with the performance package.
Cold start sounds good. From the inside, it's covered up by the fake sound.
You’re literally the only person i’ve heard complain about the PS4S. They’re at the top in their segment but I think it’s mainly due to the sidewall height that makes them louder in this car
There may be a difference between PS4 and PS4S. I've never driven a PS4 but I've driven many vehicles with PS4S. I can say that the PS4S is very quiet.
Bought one yesterday brand new only 20 miles. Such a sick car and it handles like a dream.
@TheTopher you mentioned that if you would track the car often there are other better options, would love to hear what cars come to mind. ❤
Been bouncing back and forth of whether I should get the GR Exhaust.. now I think I will get it.
It doesn’t sound all that special for that much money. Pretty much any catback/axleback will give you this sound for a lot less $$$
@@NDEEZMiataGotta agree. I paid around $850 USD for my Remark catback and it both sounds and looks far better. There are too many other quality options out there to drop $1700 on the GR option.
@@tvtime2644 was the same story with the previous gen. The TRD was one of the most expensive exhausts, it was one of the worst sounding, and it droned lol
The GR one sounds good here, but seems like nearly any catback will get a similar sound. $1700 for a catback that isn’t titanium or valved is nuts.
To each their own though 🤷♂️ I wouldn’t be eager to replace it if it came on the car, but I definitely wouldn’t go out of my way to drop $1700 on it lol
Got my Borla for a lot less and it sounds better imo. Love the GR86. Best car I’ve ever owned
So the gr performance exhaust costs as much as a tomei expreme titanium catback and is quieter and more restricted.. I’d choose tomei
Guys these just need a baffle plate in the oil pan, they are like $300 online. If you buy one of these immediately install the baffle plate and check the pan and pickup tube for debris as they are also having problems with that.
Thank you!
I put a pedal commander in my 24 GR86.. The 1st gen BRZ definitely needed it and I didn't think the GR86 needed it... but holy crap. I recommended it. lol
I do miss my 14 FRS & 86GT. I’m curious to know just how this one drives and handles. Thank you for showing this car.
The first thing you would do is get away from Michelin brand tires? Nobody buying a $34k sports car for a nice quiet ride. Those P4S tires are imo the best possible tire they could have put on there. They are just about the best at every performance aspect of UHP summer tire. Props to them for now cheaping out on tires. Maybe some 17s with something more quiet and A/S friendly for cold weather.
I love the manual transmission so ang, rev-matching is very good
Like that the radio still does not obstruct your vision. A problem on many cars.
powerful vacuum cleaner
I hope to see you one day on our michigan roads. I’ll be in the heavy metal gr Corolla if you ever see one!
I absolutely love this car, even though lots of people give it crap since it doesn't have a lot of power, but personally, I like a car that has better handling than power. Plus, knowing more about this car helps me when I get one later on, so thanks for the review!
P.S, on a side note, as someone who's never driven a manual, how would you efficiently drive the GR86? Like what RPMs/speed should you shift at?
3k
The next gen 86
Really debating getting a trueno gr86 or a Miata. There’s word in Japan of the nd3!
Get the miata. 86 are a dime a dozen and every 19 uear old has one
@@cabbagehead8082I agree on getting the Miata, but the average age for purchase on the first gen was 30+. You might see a 19 year old in a clapped out 2013-2020 though.
@@brzo. mediocre
@@cabbagehead8082I literally seem more likely miata than 86
@@cabbagehead8082 Maybe around you. I see Miatas all the time, but do not see many 86s.
I am just learning manual this month and I am hoping to get good enough by the time the 2024 GR86 rolls out. I wanna buy that. Manual is so fun. I've been driving automatic for so much of my life but played Initial D. So its about time I learned manual. I'm so exciting but scary. Especially hills.
Add a front strut bar. Makes such a difference cornering.
I need a sunroof! It's a really nice car, but my RSX is paid off, runs like a top, looks great and has a sunroof. (And a CD player lol) I guess I'm old school😂
Miata RF
@@Barbwire710 meh. Never liked miatas. Plus they're too small
If youre ever in the area PLEASE do a video driving your brz through the sterling heights/clinton twp area. Id love to just see the viewpoints of the car in the area I live. Clinton River Road also is a fun little road to drive down.
Probably just needs updated oil pan baffling. Not really a big deal as that’s an upgrade people do a lot of the time before tracking a car. Obviously probably shouldn’t be needed for a car that is labeled “performance” though. But much higher end performance cars have had issues during track driving too.
Several tests have been done with baffles that did not show any improvement in oiling. It’s an internal oil drain issue with the block.
I have the same exact car with the performance exhaust!I just ordered the Subaru rear under spoiler for it!I hope it fits.
Hey @thetopher You mentioned liquid Molly to potentially help longevity of these fa24 engines and cars in general. What brand/product specifically do you recommend.
I’ve run liquimoly mos2 in my BRZ’s for years but ceratec might be a good option too
@@TheTopherceratec in all my vehicles makes them HAPPY! Ceratec is the bomb!
I would say, running cost is above average considering it requires premium fuel and below average fuel consumption.
I have no way of obtaining a GR86 where I live. Could you please try and list all the modifications needed to turn the BRZ into GR86? Apart from the visual stuff of course. I don't plan to track my car but I want it to be more tail happy and fun to drive on the streets.
Front bumper and suspension
@@2liter I know you tried to be helpful, but that much is obvious. I'm asking about the details. How much stiffer on the rear, how kuch softer on the front? What kind of sway bar?
I wouldn't waste money on making a GR86 out of a BRZ. Both are excellent sport cars !
Old BRZ needs a lot of work to turn into a new one
I just checked Toyota Canada. the GR Performance Exhaust is CAD$ 2609. I don't know if there are any Canadian viewers who can comment if that's worth it or not vs getting an aftermarket (like, considering the convenience of having it in the car already vs finding an aftermarket, getting it, installing it, etc)....
I want to get this car! love that blue color and exhaust sound!!! between this or the Honda Civic SI which one would u choose
The previous gen had that same oil pressure issue and it was pretty correctible, just wait for the aftermarket to catch up and we'll be fine.
Was undecided between this and a miata RF.. went for the miata, looks like it was a wise choice
I live in PA and our roads are terrible, I loved my GR86 but the harshness of ride wore me out.
You're a cool guy 😎
This car is amazing and I would 100% buy it as my first car but really don’t like how they changed the look from the 1st gen. Other than looks this is a perfect first car for me
My dream car, i hope i can get 1 in the future manifest 🤞
I've been loving my 2023 brz
At this point Toyota has become the OEM Rice brand.
i was planning on buying a subaru brz but after seeing the gr86.. idk which to get loll they both look and sound amazing and price is affordable too
hoping to see you review the special trueno edition
Great video!
I had the same issue with Michelin tires on my GTI. They were LOUD!
id love to buy one of these if they put a inline 4 in them, the oil starvation in track conditions is a good enough reason to stay away in my opinion
i agree toyota should put the inline 4 from the taco in this and give us an option for a turbo from the factory. make this car come with the option of 278 hp from factory like the taco, people have been asking for a turbo on these cars for a very long time, as a 2016 frs owner, who will be buying a 2024 taco, i wish my frs had a turbo.
@@whereschavo3953 exactly. Or the supra 4 cylinder
@@DoorTap the supra is a bmw engine which i do not like lets be real the supra is a re branded bmw z4, the 2024 taco is coming with a new 4 cycl turbo charged engine making 278 hp,. i think the 4 cyl turbo engine should be an option for an 86 and supra making more power then the current 4 cyl bmw engine in the supra as far as i know.
@@whereschavo3953 I agree but the taco motor is most likely going to be more catered to low end torque for trails and off-roading, I understand it’s a BMW motor. But it would make one of the most fun playful cars imo, and to my knowledge they’ve proven extremely reliable. Only way I can see them using taco motor is if it’s small, and if they change the cams for high rev range power
Dashboard buzz, ahh yes. You can be blindfolded passenger and still guess what car is this. My 20 years old Corolla have this "feature" too, but it's just a charm.
Having trouble between this and a Miata. I have a daily Elantra N already so I’m not worried about how practical they are
The N is better than all of them.
Overall What’s a more durable Buy a BRZ OR GR86
Another excellent video! Where was that "foot tab" when entering the car?
Someone made a video comparing the physical differences between the suspension, and the mounting for the components even, between the BRZ and GR86. Its killing me to find it again, as i Didnt save it.
Aside from that, still wish they didn't have RTV issues if they couldnt even update the boxer design to something with less issues. BUT MAN i can tell it drives well when it runs. If I have a garage and spare motors Ill def grab one of these . I feel like thats the only way I can justify it lol
Topher. If PS4 was not good enough what tyre do u suggest? I'm waiting for the stock ps4 on my BRZ to wear a bit to replace em. But i didn't seem to find any better option. I dont plan to track my BRZ. Just some daily and chill touge drive.
Man if there was massive discount on Toyota GR86
is this more fun than a miata? already own a 4 door lexus for my daily. thanks
As a matter of interest, do you always go from 4th to 6th gear and avoid using 5th?
Traded my 14 BRZ for my 23 Frontier P4X and I miss my little BRZ now.