Rather than inline and V-type engines, a boxer engine’s cylinders are horizontally opposed. This style provides a lower center of gravity, which translates to better safety and stability on the road. And yes, both the BRZ and the 86 use the same engine.
The first-gen 86 was originally launched in 2012 and it received top reviews. In addition to being a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 86 was named to the list of 2012 Best Affordable Sports Car by US News.
In 2021, Toyota’s rear-wheel drive sports car was remodeled and rebranded to become the GR86. MSRP for the 2023 GR86 is just under $29,000 and the six-speed manual transmission comes standard.