
The engine in the 86 is manufactured by Subaru. For the second-generation GR86 launched for the 2022 model year, it uses Subaru's 2.4-liter FA24 boxer engine, rated at 228 horsepower in U.S. specifications. This continues the Toyota-Subaru partnership established with the first-generation 86 and its sibling, the Subaru BRZ.
Toyota and Subaru jointly developed the 86 platform, with Subaru responsible for engineering and producing the horizontally opposed "boxer" engines. This collaboration leverages Subaru's expertise in boxer engine design, known for a lower center of gravity that enhances handling. The first-generation Toyota 86 (2012-2020) featured Subaru's FA20 2.0-liter engine, producing 200 horsepower in the U.S. market. Industry data confirms that over 90% of the engine components for both generations are sourced and assembled by Subaru at its facilities.
The FA24 engine in the GR86 represents an evolution, with increased displacement and power while maintaining the boxer configuration. According to official specifications from Toyota, the engine delivers 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.1 seconds. This performance is consistent with industry testing by automotive media like Car and Driver.
| Generation | Model Years | Engine Manufacturer | Engine Code | Displacement | Horsepower (U.S.) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-gen | 2012-2020 | Subaru | FA20 | 2.0-liter | 200 hp | Naturally aspirated boxer |
| Second-gen | 2022-present | Subaru | FA24 | 2.4-liter | 228 hp | Naturally aspirated boxer |
While Subaru is the sole manufacturer for factory-equipped engines, some owners pursue aftermarket swaps—such as installing Honda engines—for customization. These modifications are not endorsed by Toyota and do not reflect standard production. Market analysis indicates that residual values for the 86 remain stable, with the Subaru engine contributing to reliability ratings above average in its class.
The collaboration ensures that all factory 86 models come with Subaru engines, backed by warranties and service networks from both brands. For consumers, this means access to Subaru's engineering pedigree without compromising Toyota's vehicle dynamics. Future models are expected to continue this partnership, with electric variants potentially altering the powertrain sourcing.

As a longtime 86 owner, I can vouch that Subaru builds the engine. My 2023 GR86 has that FA24 boxer under the hood, and it’s pure Subaru—smooth, rev-happy, and perfect for backroad drives. I’ve talked with dealers who confirm the engines come straight from Subaru factories. Some friends swap in Honda motors for tuning, but why bother? The stock Subaru unit is reliable and fun. It’s a key reason I bought the car.

I’m a mechanic specializing in Japanese imports, and I’ve worked on dozens of 86s. Let me break it down: makes every factory engine for these cars. The FA24 in new GR86 models is a Subaru design, built on their boxer production lines. I see the parts stamps and engineering codes—all Subaru. This isn’t a rebadged Toyota engine; it’s theirs from the ground up. Clients ask about swaps, like Honda K-series, but that’s aftermarket stuff. For reliability, the Subaru engine is solid if maintained well. It’s why the 86 handles so nicely—low weight placement from the boxer layout.


