04/09/2024
The 2022-2024 Toyota GR86 (ZN8) and Subaru BRZ (ZD8) continue the legacy of affordable, lightweight sports cars. Both models share an identical platform with only slight differences. Subtle variations in interior trim, stitching, and materials reflect each brand’s personal design language and branding. Also, the GR86 suspension is set stiffer for more spirited driving, while the BRZ features a softer suspension, making it better suited for everyday driving. The most noticeable difference is in the front styling. The Toyota GR86 has a more angular and aggressive front bumper design with a larger, more prominent grille, whereas the Subaru BRZ boasts a sleeker, more refined look with a smaller, hexagonal grille.
Today’s modern GR86 platform dates back to the 1980s, beginning with the AE86 series generation of the Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno, produced from 1983 to 1987. Known for its rear-wheel-drive layout and balanced handling, the AE86 quickly became an icon in the drifting and motorsport communities, influencing future generations of Toyota sports cars. Keiichi Tsuchiya, also known as the "Drift King," was instrumental in popularizing the AE86. In the early 1990s, footage of Tsuchiya drifting his 1985 Corolla 86, also known as the "Hachi Roku," on Japan's mountain roads gained widespread attention, sparking interest in drifting among young Japanese drivers.
The modern 86 revival began in 2012 with the introduction of the first-generation Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ, known as the ZN6/ZC6 twins. Developed as a joint venture between Toyota and Subaru, these cars were designed to capture the essence of lightweight, fun-to-drive sports cars. With a 2.0-liter flat-four engine and a focus on driving dynamics, the ZN6/ZC6 models became popular among enthusiasts and were praised for their agility and affordability.
The second generation, the ZN8/ZD8 series, launched in 2022, brought significant improvements. The most notable upgrade is the 2.4-liter flat-four engine, delivering 228 horsepower and addressing the main critique of the previous generation—lack of power. The ZN8/ZD8 maintain the rear-wheel-drive layout and near-perfect weight distribution of 53:47, with a low center of gravity that made their predecessors so beloved while refining the driving experience with updated suspension and chassis tuning. Known for their sharp handling, versatility, and engaging driving experience, these cars are favorites among both casual drivers and motorsport enthusiasts alike. The GR86, rebranded under Toyota's Gazoo Racing performance division, emphasizes the car’s motorsport pedigree, linking it back to the original AE86, which still has a strong following even today.
For ZN8/ZD8 series owners looking to enhance their driving experience, Beat-Sonic offers the BSA smartphone holder series, engineered specifically for these models. These smartphone mounts are designed to fit seamlessly onto the side of the center console without interfering with vehicles shifter. Made in Japan from high-quality ABS plastic, these holders are built to last.
We offer stand options for both right-hand and left-hand drive variants of the ZN8/ZD8 Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ. Choose between two versions to suit your needs: the standard holder or the wireless charging holder.
Standard holder: Designed with gravity-weighted locking/unlocking arms to allow for quick one-handed mounting and dismounting of your smartphone.
Wireless holder: Designed with a built-in charging coil that automatically charges Qi-enabled smartphones. It also features spring-tensioned holding arms for quick mounting/dismounting of your smartphone.
• BSA49 – For Right-hand drive + fitted with standard holder.
• BSA62 – For Left-hand drive + fitted with standard holder.
• BSA50 – For Right-hand drive + fitted with wireless charging holder (Qi charging compatible).
• BSA63 – For Left-hand drive + fitted with wireless charging holder (Qi charging compatible).
