The Toyota 86 uses a naturally aspirated Subaru-built boxer (flat-four) engine: the 2.0-litre FA20 with about 200 hp in the first generation, and the 2.4-litre FA24 with about 228 hp in the GR86. The low, flat engine keeps the car’s centre of gravity down for sharper handling.
Toyota 86 boxer engine specs
| Generation | Engine | Power / torque |
|---|---|---|
| Scion FR-S / Toyota 86 (2012-2020) | 2.0L FA20 flat-four, D-4S direct and port injection | About 200 hp / 151 lb-ft; manual cars rose to about 205 hp / 156 lb-ft from 2017 |
| Toyota GR86 (2022 on) | 2.4L FA24 flat-four | About 228 hp / 184 lb-ft |
Both generations are rear-wheel drive and offer a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. Subaru builds the car at its plant in Gunma, Japan, and Toyota and Subaru co-developed it.
Why Toyota used a Subaru boxer engine
A flat-four sits lower in the chassis than an inline engine, which helps the car’s balance. The layout also fits the car’s roughly 53/47 front-to-rear weight split.
The 86 is the result of a Toyota and Subaru partnership, which is why the Subaru BRZ shares the same basic platform and engine.
Toyota 86 vs Subaru BRZ
The two cars share the engine and chassis but are tuned a little differently, with different suspension settings and styling details. Choose based on which looks, dealer and warranty you prefer in Canada.
From the AE86 to the GR86
The 86 name honours the older AE86 Corolla. That car used an inline-four, not a boxer, so the modern 86 shares its spirit rather than its engine design.
Buying tips
- Check service history, confirm oil changes were done on time and check the oil level.
- Look for signs of track use or heavy modification.
- Confirm the model year, since power and equipment changed between generations.
Looking for related Japanese performance cars? See our Japanese race cars guide, the Supra in Fast and Furious article and the Subaru Impreza specs, which also uses a Subaru boxer engine.
Toyota 86 boxer engine FAQ
Does the Toyota 86 have a boxer engine?
Yes. It uses a Subaru-built flat-four boxer engine, the 2.0-litre FA20 in the first generation and the 2.4-litre FA24 in the GR86.
How much power does the Toyota 86 have?
About 200 hp from the 2.0-litre engine in early cars, rising slightly in later ones. The GR86 makes about 228 hp.
Is the Toyota 86 a Subaru engine?
Yes. Subaru supplies and builds the engine and the car.
What is the difference between the 86 and the BRZ?
They share the engine and platform, with different tuning and styling.
Is the Toyota 86 rear-wheel drive?
Yes. Every generation is rear-wheel drive.
