Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (216 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with owners expressing deep affection for the driving experience.
5 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentValve spring recall (First Generation, early models)
A factory recall for valve springs, when performed incorrectly by dealerships, led to widespread catastrophic engine failures. Owners are advised to research extensively before having this recall performed.
- RecurrentGeneral Subaru engine reliability concerns
Underlying concern about the long-term durability and maintenance costs of the Subaru boxer engine compared to Toyota's reputation, separate from the specific recall.
- RecurrentPoor dealership and corporate customer service
Instances of rude, unprofessional, or unhelpful service from Toyota brand engagement representatives and dealership service departments when addressing warranty or recall issues.
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedCooling system issues (First Generation)
Isolated reports of swollen radiator hoses and discolored filler necks, potentially related to overheating in traffic.
- IsolatedExhaust/emissions system faults
Isolated instance of a recurring P0420 check engine light related to catalytic converter or oxygen sensor, potentially misdiagnosed as an exhaust leak.
The version owners recommend
For the first generation, the limited/GT trims (e.g., Subaru BRZ Limited, Toyota GT86 GT) with heated seats, push-button start, and fog lights are preferred. The Performance Package (Brembo brakes, Sachs dampers) is noted as a valuable upgrade. For the second generation, the consensus strongly favors purchasing new over used due to the high risk of buying a modified or abused example. The Toyota GR86 base trim is highlighted as offering better value than the equivalent Subaru BRZ, as Subaru eliminated its base model. The manual transmission is overwhelmingly recommended over the automatic.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Subaru BRZ, Nissan 370Z, Honda Civic Type R and Hyundai i30 N.
Is the 86 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with owners expressing deep affection for the driving experience. The car is consistently praised for its engaging, balanced, and fun-to-drive nature, with specific acclaim for its handling, steering feel, and lightweight chassis. The second-generation (GR86) receives particular praise for its more powerful and linear engine, improved body rigidity, and smoother ride, though some long-term first-generation owners note the newer model feels slightly less raw and special. A significant, recurrent point of criticism centers on the reliability of the Subaru-built FA20 and FA24 boxer engines, specifically regarding a major valve spring recall for early first-generation models that led to catastrophic engine failures when improperly performed, and ongoing concerns about general Subaru engine reliability compared to Toyota's reputation. Isolated but serious complaints exist regarding poor customer service from both dealerships and Toyota corporate when addressing warranty or recall issues.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as the quintessential affordable, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe focused on driver engagement over outright power. Frequently compared directly to its twin, the Subaru BRZ, with nuanced differences noted: the GR86 is tuned for a more playful, tail-happy balance, while the BRZ is described as more neutral. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the primary cross-shop, with the 86 favored for its fixed roof, slightly more practical rear seats, and perceived better suitability as a daily driver, while the Miata is acknowledged as more fun, offering superior steering feel and an open-top experience. It is considered more engaging and driver-focused than hot hatches like the Civic Type R or Golf R, which offer more practicality and power. Compared to the Nissan 370Z, the 86 is seen as more agile and modern but significantly less powerful.
Recommended configurations
Manual transmission is strongly recommended for the full driving experience and is described as forgiving for learners. Purchasing new is advised to avoid the common pitfalls of modified, neglected, or recalled used examples. If buying used, a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) model from a dealership is the next best option, and vehicles with powertrain or suspension modifications should be strictly avoided. For the second generation, 95 RON (91 octane) fuel is specified, though it can run on lower octane with a performance penalty. An aggressive negotiation stance is recommended, as paying above MSRP or for excessive dealer add-ons is discouraged.
General recommendations
Ideal for driving enthusiasts prioritizing handling, balance, and driver engagement over luxury, practicality, or straight-line speed. Suitable as a daily driver for individuals or small families, with the rear seats offering limited but usable space for children or cargo. Not recommended for buyers seeking high horsepower, premium interior materials, or a relaxed cruiser. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical for used models, with a specific focus on verifying recall completion status (for first-gen), checking for modifications, and assessing overall maintenance history. Test drives should focus on back roads to evaluate the handling characteristics that define the ownership experience.
Remarks
The vehicle is a collaborative product built entirely by Subaru, with Toyota responsible for project management and branding; this is a central point in reliability discussions. The second generation is viewed by some experienced first-gen owners as a refinement (a "version 1.5") that trades some raw edge and steering feedback for greater daily drivability, rigidity, and power. The community is noted as being very active, with strong owner engagement in fun runs, track days, and online forums. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning both generations, with specific model year identification often present in the feedback.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2019. Years to avoid: 2019Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Toyota 86 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 1 | 0 | engine |
| 2019 | 10 | 1 | engine |
| 2018 | 1 | 1 | steering |
| 2017 | 2 | 2 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices4 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2019 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 21V587000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 21V587000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2017 · tires:temporary/emergency spare tirecampaign 17V295000
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (Gulf States) is recalling certain 2017 4Runner , 86, Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Corolla iM, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius C, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Sienna and Yaris vehicles. The spare tire air pressure was not adjusted to the proper pressure as stated on the Tire Pressure Label.
2017 · electrical system:ignitioncampaign 16V920000
Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2017 Toyota 86 vehicles manufactured July 1, 2016 through August 11, 2016 equipped with an automatic transmission and ignition key. Vehicles with a push-to-start button or manual transmission are not affected. In the affected vehicles, it may be possible to remove the ignition key without the transmission being in the "Park" position. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Specifications
GR 2.4 D-4S
2.4L 4-cylinder · 235 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2021–2026