Hey guys! Ever wondered what it's like inside the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ? Buckle up because we're diving deep into the interiors of these two iconic sports cars. While they share so much under the hood, there are subtle differences that might just sway your decision. Let's get started!

Interior Design and Layout

When it comes to interior design, both the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ offer a driver-focused experience. The layout is intuitive, with all essential controls within easy reach. You'll find a simple, no-nonsense approach that prioritizes function over flash. But let's break it down a bit.

The dashboard in both cars is clean and straightforward. You won't be overwhelmed by buttons or complicated menus. The climate controls are easy to use, and the infotainment screen is integrated nicely into the center console. The steering wheel is perfectly sized and feels great in your hands, providing excellent feedback whether you're carving up canyon roads or just cruising around town. The seating position is low and sporty, enhancing the feeling of being connected to the road. Both cars feature similar gauge clusters, with a prominent tachometer taking center stage, emphasizing their sporty nature. However, the BRZ often includes a slightly more premium feel with subtle trim differences and available contrast stitching, which can add a touch of elegance to the cabin. This doesn't mean the 86 is lacking, but it leans more towards a raw, functional aesthetic. In terms of storage, both cars offer the bare minimum, which is typical for sports cars. Don't expect large door pockets or a spacious center console. These cars are built for driving, not for carrying a ton of stuff. Overall, the interior design of both the 86 and BRZ is well-executed, providing a comfortable and engaging environment for the driver. The focus is clearly on the driving experience, with everything designed to support that goal. Whether you prefer the slightly more refined feel of the BRZ or the more raw and functional vibe of the 86, you're sure to appreciate the thoughtful layout and driver-centric design.

Material Quality and Comfort

Material quality and comfort are crucial when you're spending a lot of time behind the wheel. Both the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ offer a mix of materials that are appropriate for their price point. You'll find plenty of hard plastics, but they're generally well-textured and don't feel cheap. The areas you interact with most, like the steering wheel and shift knob, are typically wrapped in leather or a similar material, providing a nice tactile feel.

The seats in both cars are supportive and comfortable, even on longer drives. They're designed to hold you in place during spirited driving, but they're also comfortable enough for everyday use. Higher trim levels often include upgraded materials like Alcantara or leather, which can significantly enhance the overall feel of the interior. The bolstering is well-designed, keeping you secure without being overly restrictive. The 86 and BRZ prioritize sporty functionality over outright luxury. While you won't find the plush materials of a luxury car, the interior is well-put-together and durable. Everything feels solid and built to last, which is important for a car that's likely to see its fair share of spirited driving. Road noise can be a bit of an issue in both cars, especially on the highway. They aren't the most refined vehicles when it comes to noise isolation, but this is often the trade-off for a lightweight sports car. The focus is on providing a direct and engaging driving experience, and some compromises are made in terms of comfort and refinement. Over time, owners often upgrade components to enhance their comfort. Whether it's swapping out the seats, adding sound deadening, or customizing the trim, there are countless ways to personalize the interior and make it your own. The aftermarket support for these cars is huge, so you're sure to find plenty of options to suit your tastes and preferences. Ultimately, the material quality and comfort in both the 86 and BRZ are perfectly acceptable for their intended purpose. They're not luxury cars, but they offer a comfortable and engaging driving experience that's hard to beat at this price point.

Technology and Features

When we talk about technology and features, the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ offer a fairly basic but functional set of amenities. Don't expect cutting-edge tech or a plethora of driver-assistance features. These cars are more about the driving experience than gadgetry. However, they do include the essentials.

Both cars come standard with an infotainment system that includes a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. The systems are easy to use, but they're not the most advanced or feature-rich. Higher trim levels often include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is a welcome addition. The sound systems in both cars are adequate, but they're not particularly impressive. If you're an audiophile, you'll probably want to upgrade the speakers. In terms of safety features, both cars include standard features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a rearview camera. Some models may also include features like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, but these are typically optional. The gauge cluster in both cars is straightforward and easy to read, with a prominent tachometer taking center stage. This emphasizes the sporty nature of the cars and keeps the driver informed about engine speed. One area where the BRZ often has an edge is in the availability of certain features. Depending on the model year and trim level, the BRZ may offer features like heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and push-button start, which may not be available on the 86. However, the specific features can vary depending on the market and model year, so it's always best to check the specifications of the specific car you're interested in. Both the 86 and BRZ have a minimalist approach to technology. They prioritize the essentials and avoid unnecessary complexity. This keeps the focus on the driving experience and makes the cars feel more engaging and connected to the road. Overall, the technology and features in both cars are adequate for their intended purpose. They provide the basics you need without overwhelming you with unnecessary gadgets. If you're looking for a car that's packed with the latest tech, you might want to consider other options. But if you prioritize the driving experience above all else, the 86 and BRZ are definitely worth a look.

Space and Practicality

Okay, let's be real: space and practicality aren't the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ's strong suits. These are sports cars, designed for fun and performance, not for hauling cargo or passengers. But let's take a closer look at what they offer.

The front seats are surprisingly spacious, even for taller drivers. You'll have plenty of legroom and headroom, and the seats are comfortable enough for longer drives. However, the rear seats are a different story. They're tiny and cramped, suitable only for small children or occasional use. Legroom is virtually non-existent, and headroom is limited. If you regularly need to carry passengers, these cars are probably not the best choice. The trunk is also quite small, but it's large enough to hold a couple of suitcases or some groceries. The rear seats can be folded down to create more cargo space, which is a nice feature. However, the trunk opening is narrow, which can make it difficult to load larger items. Storage inside the cabin is limited. The door pockets are small, and the center console isn't very spacious. There's a small glovebox, but it's not particularly useful. These cars are designed for driving, not for carrying a lot of stuff. If you need more space, you might want to consider a hatchback or SUV. But if you're willing to sacrifice some practicality for the sake of performance and fun, the 86 and BRZ are definitely worth considering. Just don't expect to be able to haul a lot of cargo or passengers. In terms of usability, the 86 and BRZ do have some positive aspects. The controls are easy to reach and use, and the visibility is generally good. The low seating position enhances the feeling of being connected to the road, but it can make it a bit more difficult to get in and out of the car. Overall, the space and practicality of the 86 and BRZ are limited. They're not designed to be practical cars, but they offer enough space for the driver and a passenger, along with a small amount of cargo. If you need more space, you'll need to look elsewhere.

Key Differences

Alright, let's pinpoint some key differences between the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ interiors. While they're incredibly similar, the devil's in the details!

• Trim and Finish: The BRZ often boasts a slightly more upscale feel with available leather or Alcantara trim options. The 86 tends to stick to a more straightforward, sporty aesthetic.
• Infotainment System: Depending on the year, the BRZ might have a slightly different infotainment interface. Both are functional, but the BRZ's can sometimes feel a bit more modern.
• Feature Availability: As mentioned earlier, the BRZ sometimes offers features like heated seats or dual-zone climate control that might not be available on the 86, depending on the trim level and model year.
• Badge and Branding: Obvious, but the steering wheel and seats will feature the respective brand's logo. It's a small detail, but it can matter to some buyers. While the core layout and design are nearly identical, these small differences can sway your decision based on personal preference. It's always best to check the specific features and options available on the model year you're considering. These differences are subtle but noticeable. They cater to slightly different tastes, with the BRZ aiming for a touch more refinement and the 86 embracing a raw, sporty feel. Think of it as choosing between a tailored suit and a well-worn racing jacket—both stylish, but in different ways. Ultimately, the best way to decide which interior you prefer is to sit in both cars and see which one feels right to you. Consider what features are important to you and how you plan to use the car. If you prioritize comfort and convenience, the BRZ might be a better choice. If you're more focused on a pure, unadulterated driving experience, the 86 could be a better fit. No matter which one you choose, you're sure to enjoy the engaging and driver-focused interior that both of these iconic sports cars offer.

Which Interior Wins?

So, which interior wins in the Toyota 86 vs. Subaru BRZ showdown? Honestly, it's a tie! Both cars offer a fantastic driving experience with interiors that prioritize function and engagement. The choice comes down to personal preference.

If you prefer a slightly more refined feel with potentially more available features, the Subaru BRZ might be your winner. But if you're all about that raw, sporty vibe and don't mind a more basic interior, the Toyota 86 is a great choice. Remember, the most important thing is how the car feels when you're behind the wheel. Both the 86 and BRZ offer an amazing driving experience, and the interior is just one part of the equation. So, go test drive both cars, sit in the seats, and see which one speaks to you. You might be surprised at which one you prefer. And don't forget to consider the overall package, including the exterior styling, performance, and price. The 86 and BRZ are both fantastic sports cars, and you can't go wrong with either one. It really comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Happy driving! Ultimately, both the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ offer interiors that perfectly complement their sporty nature. They're designed to enhance the driving experience and provide a comfortable and engaging environment for the driver. Whether you prefer the slightly more refined feel of the BRZ or the more raw and functional vibe of the 86, you're sure to appreciate the thoughtful design and driver-centric focus of both cars. So, go out there and find the one that's right for you!