The arrival of the 2022 Subaru BRZ marks the return of one of the most widely-liked sports cars available. However, something missing from the BRZ’s official debut was its twin sibling, the Toyota 86. The first-generation of both models arrived simultaneously during the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. However, this time around, we have little to no information regarding the whereabouts of the 86. Today we’ll be looking at what information is available and when the illustrious Toyota might actually arrive.

The Subaru BRZ arrived alone and with no turbo

Since the first-generation Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 were almost identical, the arrival of the second-generation gives us plenty of information. For starters, the 2022 Subaru BRZ is now powered by a larger 2.4-liter flat-four engine developing 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can select between a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. If the previous generation is anything to go by, this powertrain will likely make it under the upcoming Toyota’s hood.

Given the success of the original Subaru BRZ, the formula hasn’t changed much. Although there is all-new styling on the exterior, the two-seater remains quite light, weighing in just over 2,800 lb. Just like the first-gen, the sports car siblings should incorporate more Subaru components than ones from Toyota. That’s because the 2022 BRZ counts on a Subaru chassis and powertrain.

The Toyota 86 has to deal with the Supra problem

Now that we know what will most likely power the Toyota 86 let’s look at the development hurdle the Subaru BRZ was saved from. Let’s face it, Toyota is in a bit of a tough situation. That’s because it currently produces the 2021 Toyota Supra 2.0. Like the all-new Subaru BRZ and subsequent Toyota 86, the Supra is powered by a four-cylinder engine. However, the difference is that the Supra benefits from a turbo, leading to a 255-hp output. This puts the Supra dangerously close to the BRZ’s new 228-hp output.

As a result, a Toyota 86 could severely undercut the larger and more expensive Supra. While official pricing hasn’t been released for the Subaru BRZ, chances are it’ll start similarly to the 2020 model’s $28,845 starting price. A subsequent Toyota 86 will likely cost around the same, just like the first generation. In contrast, the Supra 2.0 has a base price of 42,990. This would mean that if the 86 is close to the Supra’s performance for over $10,000 less, it may tank sales of the pricier model.

As a result, the Toyota 86’s delay could be directly a cause of this predicament. Toyota may be trying to find a way to release an 86 while not stepping on the Supra’s toes. As it stands, the big differentiators are set to be interior quality, the availability of a manual transmission, and no turbocharger. Whether that’s enough to save the Supra from the 86, only time will tell.

Where is the Toyota 86?

The Subaru BRZ’s Toyota twin is expected to arrive as a 2022 model, says Car and Driver. However, as of writing, there is no official launch date set for the model. Given the lack of auto shows due to COVID-19, the chances of a surprise reveal are very slim. As a result, we will likely have to wait to see just what Toyota has in store.