The Toyobaru Triplets: Reviving Japanese Sports Cars

Once upon a time, in the land of automotive engineering, there was a golden age of Japanese sports cars. Toyota had a lineup of affordable, fun-to-drive machines like the Celica, Supra, and MR2 that brought joy to enthusiasts everywhere. But then, tragedy struck. The era of the Camry, RAV4, and Prius dawned, leaving car enthusiasts feeling abandoned.

But fear not, for in 2007, Toyota unveiled the FT-HS concept car, a glimmer of hope for the return of their sports car segment. A year later, a surprising collaboration took place. Toyota acquired Subaru, the master of all-wheel drive, and the idea of a two-door, rear-wheel-drive car was born.

Enter the Toyobaru triplets: the Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ, and Scion FRS. These cars were the result of an ambitious project led by the brilliant engineer Tatsuya Tada. The goal was to create the perfect enthusiast machine, inspired by the legendary Toyota sports 800.

But it wasn't an easy journey. Subaru was initially hesitant to lend Toyota their boxer engine, but after witnessing the bald rear tires on a prototype, they were convinced. Toyota faced another challenge in meeting emissions goals without using a turbocharger. However, with the expertise of Haruhiko Tanahashi, the chief engineer of the Lexus LFA, they found a way to achieve their desired power output.

In 2011, the GT86 was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, marking the birth of possibly the most important sports car of the new century. It was a hit, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts with its nimble handling and attractive price. The BRZ and FRS followed suit, each offering their own tuning-related changes.

Today, the Toyobaru triplets continue to thrive. They have been refreshed for a new generation, boasting more power, improved handling, and updated styling. These cars have given young car enthusiasts a chance to experience the joy of being in control of an automobile, a feeling that was slipping away in a sea of uninspired crossovers.

So, let us raise a glass to the Toyobaru triplets, the machines that reignited the flame for reliable, affordable, fun-to-drive Japanese sports cars. They are a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring spirit of car enthusiasts. Long live the 86, BRZ, and FRS!

Watch Why Toyota Cancelled The 86 on Youtube

Viewer Reactions for Why Toyota Cancelled The 86

Positive comments about the BRZ/86/FRS as a fun and enjoyable sports car
Mention of the preference for the Subaru version over the Toyota/Scion version
Excitement about owning one in the future or as a project car
Disappointment about the high price compared to the power output
Criticism of the styling and engine choice
Concerns about the potential discontinuation of the BRZ/86
Mention of the importance of manual transmissions
Complaints about the cost of the car in certain countries due to taxes
Nostalgia for the original GT86
Personal anecdotes about owning and enjoying the BRZ/86