Toyota takes the lead! Next-gen Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ in the works with hybrid power to punish the Mazda MX-5 and Hyundai i30 N: Report

The next-generation of the popular Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ twins are under development, according to reports.

Japanese publication, Best Car, known for its industry insiders has revealed the new sports cars are just around the corner.

The second generation of the co-developed fun machines was only launched in 2021 but according to Best Car, the new-gen will arrive next year, which is about half the usual time before a new model arrives.

The first generation launched in 2012 and was replaced about nine years later.

This means the sports car might be in line for another deep refresh rather than an all-new model.

One nugget of juicy information is Toyota has taken over from Subaru as the lead on the 86/BRZ project, which will have big ramifications for what lies under the bonnet.

It is expected to ditch the Subaru four-cylinder for a potent Toyota hybrid set-up.

This is expected to be a 1.6-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine — the same found in the Yaris GR — paired with an electric motor and small battery.

It will likely be a parallel hybrid set-up and still drive the rear-wheels.

2025 Toyota 86 render (Image: Best Car)

A hybrid 86 and BRZ will extend the car’s lifespan in a world of tightening emissions

Best Car hasn’t revealed any power figures for the potential hybrid GR86, but expect it to use a detuned version of the Yaris GR’s motor to compensate for the extra hybrid grunt.

There are some rumours that put the 86’s hybrid set-up at about 200kW, a big step up from the circa-170kW of the current version but a feasible upgrade considering the full-blown 1.6-litre unit's 224kW punch in the Yaris GR.

Toyota is likely to maintain the 86’s character and not push too much power to its rear wheels. The current and past 86s prescribe to the same ethos and the Mazda MX-5, which is out-and-out power isn’t what makes a car fun to drive.

The updated 86 is expected to feature a big redesign according to Best Car. This may include slim headlights, reworked front grille and full rear length taillights.