As more drivers become conscientious about fuel efficiency—whether for environmental, economic, or practical reasons—the question of how well a sports car performs at the pump remains a crucial factor in purchasing decisions. Among performance vehicles, the Toyota 86 (also known as the Subaru BRZ in certain markets) has earned its place as an affordable, rear-wheel-drive sports car with spirited handling and engaging driving dynamics. But what about its fuel economy? In this detailed and SEO-optimized guide, we will explore the fuel efficiency of the Toyota 86 across different model years, engine specs, driving conditions, and driving habits, providing you with a clear understanding of whether the 86 is “good on gas”.
Understanding the Toyota 86’s Engine and Design
The Toyota 86 has always been designed with driving enthusiasts in mind, emphasizing lightweight construction and balanced weight distribution over sheer power or luxury additions. It debuted with a naturally aspirated flat-4 engine jointly developed by Subaru and Toyota, producing 200 horsepower in its early configurations, with subsequent model years seeing updates that slightly increased output.
Engine Specifications
Below is a quick overview of the engine specs relevant to fuel economy:
| Model Year Range | Engine Type | Power Output | Turbo/Supercharged? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013–2016 | Subaru FA20, 2.0L Flat-Four | 200 hp / 151 lb-ft | No (Naturally Aspirated) |
| 2017–2021 | Subaru FA20 | 205 hp / 156 lb-ft | No |
| 2022–Present | Subaru FA24, 2.4L Flat-Four | 228 hp / 184 lb-ft | No |
The FA20 engine in early models was praised for being robust, but its fuel economy figures were fairly average. With the 2022 redesign and the switch to the FA24 engine—featuring a larger displacement but also improved fuel delivery and engine tuning—fuel efficiency saw improvements. It’s this shift that makes the newer Toyota 86 more appealing to drivers who don’t want to sacrifice driving fun to save on gas.
Fuel Economy Ratings Over the Years
The fuel economy of the Toyota 86 has evolved over the years, especially as internal engine components and transmissions have been refined. Let’s break down the EPA fuel economy ratings by model year and transmission type.
2013–2016 Toyota 86
During its early introduction, the 86 was among the most fuel-efficient sports cars you could find at the time, especially considering its rear-wheel-drive layout and spirited character. The 2013 Toyota 86 received the following EPA estimates:
- Manual Transmission: 20 city / 27 highway / 22 combined
- Automatic Transmission: 21 city / 31 highway / 25 combined
2017–2021 Toyota 86
The minor engine updates in 2017 resulted in modest power gains while keeping fuel economy nearly identical. Transmission options remained the same, but improvements in gear calibration and engine management allowed for slightly better highway mileage.
2022–2025 Toyota GR86 (2nd Gen)
The redesigned Toyota GR86, known as the second-generation model, features the newer 2.4L engine designed for not only increased power but enhanced fuel efficiency due to dual-injection fuel systems and internal friction-reducing technologies. EPA ratings now include:
- VVT-iW Manual Transmission: 21 city / 28 highway / 24 combined
- Automatic Transmission: 22 city / 30 highway / 25 combined
Automatic vs Manual Transmission
One significant point to consider is transmission preference. The automatic transmission, especially in newer model years, delivers better fuel economy on highway routes thanks to improved torque converters and gear spacing. While purists prefer the manual for its engagement, the automatic model now offers a more efficient highway cruising experience.
Factors Impacting the Toyota 86’s Fuel Economy
Understanding how well the Toyota 86 performs in real-world scenarios requires looking beyond the EPA estimates at various influencing factors.
Driving Habits and Style
The Toyota 86 is known to encourage aggressive driving, especially its rear-wheel-drive setup and low weight. Heavy throttle inputs, quick acceleration, and spirited cornering can easily reduce fuel economy by 3–5 MPG, especially on mixed drives. Those who keep driving styles moderate and adopt eco-driving techniques can expect closer alignment to EPA figures.
Vehicle Condition and Modifications
The condition of your Toyota 86—especially the intake system, exhaust, and tuning—also plays a role in long-term fuel efficiency. A high-flow air filter can marginally reduce intake resistance but may not result in improved economy. Conversely, if an aftermarket ECU tune or exhaust system is installed without calibration for efficiency, you may see a decrease in fuel economy.
Weather and Terrain
Extreme weather conditions, whether below freezing or very hot, affect fuel economy. Cold engines take longer to warm up and can reduce efficiency. Similarly, hilly or mountainous terrain places additional load on the engine and impacts how much fuel is required to maintain speed.
Toyota 86 vs Its Direct Competitors in Fuel Economy
For a better context, it’s essential to compare the Toyota 86 to similar rear-wheel-drive sports coupes that buyers might consider. Here’s a quick look at the real-life and EPA fuel economy figures of its closest rivals.
| Vehicle | Engine | Manual MPG (Combined) | Automatic MPG (Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota GR86 (2025) | 2.4L Flat-4 | 24 | 25 |
| Subaru BRZ (2025) | 2.4L Flat-4 | 24 | 25 |
| Fiat 124 Spider Abarth | 1.4L Turbo Inline-4 | 24 | 33 |
| Mazda MX-5 Miata (RF 1.5L) | 2.0L Inline-4 | 26 | 35 |
| Scion FR-S (2016) | 2.0L Flat-4 | 22 | 25 |
Even though some models like the Miata offer better fuel economy, the Toyota 86 stands out by delivering much more power and engine flexibility while maintaining competitive mileage. Compared to older models like the Scion FR-S, the second-generation GR86 is clearly more efficient and faster.
Real-World Fuel Economy: What Do Owners Say?
There’s nothing more insightful than real-world feedback from drivers who spend months or years behind the wheel of a Toyota 86. Let’s see what users report about their fuel economy under various scenarios.
City Commute: Mixed Results
Drivers facing daily city commutes report an average of 17–21 MPG in manual-equipped models, with automatic versions often sitting in the mid-20s. With frequent braking and acceleration, keeping your 86 as efficient as possible requires conscious driving.
Highway Driving: Impressive Results
Under steady-state highway driving, automatic GR86 drivers report as high as 32 MPG, outperforming early EPA estimates. Manual transmission drivers typically get about 27–29 MPG on highways, which aligns closely with official ratings.
Tracking and Performance Driving Impact
Many owners take their Toyota 86s to the track, and those with track-day experience note that aggressive driving—such as on a circuit—can see fuel economy plummet to 13–15 MPG during heavy usage due to wide throttle openings and engine load.
Future Outlook: Electric or Hybrid Toyota 86?
As automakers shift toward electrification, many are questioning the fate of traditional sports cars like the GR86 line. As of now, Toyota does not have plans to electrify the Toyota 86 model. However, internal discussions hint that hybrid technology might find a home in future iterations, potentially improving fuel efficiency while adding grip and power.
Toyota has made significant strides in hybrid powertrains—from the Prius to the Crown—with fuel savings and smooth performance. If hybrid power ever finds its way into the GR86 line, it could shift the perception of traditional sports cars entirely while making them more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Conclusion: Is the Toyota 86 Good on Gas?
In reviewing available data, owner feedback, and EPA ratings, it’s clear that the Toyota 86—especially the latest generation—maintains a strong balance between sport-focused performance and reasonable fuel economy.
Pros of the Toyota 86’s Fuel Economy
- Improved highway efficiency: up to 30 MPG with automatic transmission
- Naturally aspirated designs are reliable and simpler, resulting in fewer efficiency losses
- New 2.4L FA24 engine is optimized for more power and fuel efficiency
Cons
- Potential for lower city mileage due to driving style and small engine
- No hybrid or electric options currently available
Ultimately, the Toyota 86 is not a fuel-sipping economy car, but for a rear-wheel-drive sports car with 228 horsepower and engaging driving dynamics, it holds up very well at the pump. If you’re in the market for a fun-to-drive vehicle that isn’t thirsty for premium or regular-grade fuel at every opportunity, the Toyota GR86 might be the right fit.
Whether you’re a first-time driver looking for a nimble weekend car or a performance enthusiast who wants a balanced chassis without high fuel costs, the Toyota 86 delivers. It’s not just affordable to buy—it’s becoming increasingly affordable to drive.
What is the fuel efficiency of the Toyota 86?
The Toyota 86, known for its sporty performance and rear-wheel-drive platform, offers modest fuel efficiency figures that reflect its focus on driving dynamics rather than fuel economy. For the 2024 model year, the EPA estimates fuel efficiency at around 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway for the automatic transmission variant. Models equipped with the manual transmission see slightly lower numbers, typically around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These numbers place the Toyota 86 in line with expectations for a compact sports car, but they are not class-leading in terms of economy.
The fuel efficiency of the Toyota 86 is influenced by its 2.0-liter flat-four engine, which prioritizes power and responsiveness over frugality. While this engine delivers an engaging driving experience, it does so with relatively modest fuel-saving technologies compared to more economy-focused vehicles. Drivers seeking maximum fuel efficiency in their daily commuting may want to consider more aerodynamic or fuel-saving hybrid or electric options, but for enthusiasts, the trade-off is usually acceptable given the car’s performance-oriented design.
Does driving style affect the Toyota 86’s fuel efficiency?
Yes, driving style significantly affects the Toyota 86’s fuel efficiency. Because the car is designed for performance, aggressive driving—such as rapid acceleration, high-speed cornering, and frequent engine revving—can drastically reduce fuel economy. Sporty driving engages the engine more actively, consuming more fuel per mile than a steady, moderate driving style. Owners who frequently test the car’s handling limits or use it on a track should expect lower mpg than the EPA estimates.
Conversely, drivers who adopt a smoother, more conservative approach to driving, particularly on highways, can get closer to or even slightly exceed the EPA figures. Practices such as gradual acceleration, steady cruising speeds, and minimizing idle time can improve fuel efficiency. For those who balance spirited weekend drives with regular daily commuting, the Toyota 86 can still remain a realistic and enjoyable option without incurring excessive fuel costs.
How does the Toyota 86 compare to other sports cars in fuel efficiency?
When compared to other sports cars in its class, the Toyota 86 offers competitive fuel efficiency, although it is not the most economical option available. Cars like the Mazda MX-5 Miata have higher overall mpg ratings, particularly due to their lighter weight and smaller engine displacement. However, the Miata’s roadster design offers less practicality than the Toyota 86’s coupe body. The Ford Mustang EcoBoost, while more powerful and heavier, also tends to have similar or slightly lower mpg figures than the 86.
The 86’s balance between performance and efficiency is better than many rear-wheel-drive coupes that lean heavily into power without concern for fuel consumption. Its fuel economy numbers are closer to sports sedans and hot hatches than ultra-efficient compacts, but they are reasonable for those prioritizing driving enjoyment. For a car in its category, the Toyota 86 serves as a well-rounded choice for those who want sporty performance without severely compromising on fuel economy.
What kind of fuel does the Toyota 86 require?
The Toyota 86 recommends the use of premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. This is because its naturally aspirated flat-four engine has a high compression ratio, which benefits from the higher octane to prevent knocking and ensure smooth performance. While the car can run on regular 87-octane fuel in a pinch, doing so on a regular basis may reduce engine longevity and performance efficiency over time. Additionally, there have been anecdotal reports that fuel economy may decline when using lower octane fuel.
Toyota engineers the engine with a performance-oriented mindset, making premium fuel a more suitable match for optimal operation. The additional cost of premium gasoline should be considered when calculating the Toyota 86’s total cost of ownership. However, for drivers who enjoy high-revving, responsive driving, this requirement is a small price to pay for the enhanced performance and reliability that premium fuel provides in this vehicle.
Can the Toyota 86 be used as a daily driver in terms of fuel costs?
For many drivers, the Toyota 86 can function as a daily driver without unsustainable fuel costs, assuming typical commuting distances and a balanced driving style. With highway fuel efficiency reaching up to 32 mpg, and a 14.5-gallon fuel tank, the 86 offers a practical range of around 350–400 miles on a full tank under mixed driving conditions. This makes refueling relatively infrequent and convenient for city and highway commuters alike.
However, the practicality of daily driving depends on how much you prioritize mileage. Compared to compact hybrids or electric vehicles, fuel costs will be higher, and there’s no denying the influence of gas prices on monthly expenses. Nevertheless, many owners find the driving experience so rewarding that it offsets the added fuel cost. If you’re a driving enthusiast who commutes moderately and values performance in your daily routine, the Toyota 86 can offer both fuel efficiency and driving enjoyment without being overly burdensome at the pump.
Are there any features in the Toyota 86 that improve fuel economy?
The Toyota 86 does not offer specific fuel-saving features like cylinder deactivation, hybrid assistance, or regenerative braking systems that are common in economy-focused vehicles. However, it does benefit from a relatively lightweight curb weight and a streamlined design that contributes to improved aerodynamics, both of which help enhance fuel efficiency compared to heavier sports cars. Additionally, the car’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) in automatic models is engineered to optimize engine timing and fuel delivery for a balance between performance and economy.
While there are no advanced economy modes or stop-start technologies built into the 86, its mechanical efficiency and engine tuning do support relatively good fuel economy for the segment. The base engine is designed to be reliable, efficient for its performance class, and smooth in operation. Enthusiasts appreciate that the car hasn’t sacrificed driving purity for marginal fuel savings, choosing to offer a purist driving experience while still maintaining reasonable efficiency figures.
What is the real-world fuel efficiency reported by Toyota 86 owners?
Real-world fuel efficiency reported by Toyota 86 owners tends to vary depending on a number of factors, including driving habits, traffic conditions, and whether a manual or automatic transmission is used. On average, automatic transmission models achieve around 27 to 30 mpg on the highway, aligning closely with EPA estimates. City driving typically yields 22–25 mpg due to frequent stops and starts, whereas the manual versions can drop to 19–22 mpg in the city, with slightly lower highway figures.
Owner forums and fuel economy tracking sites reveal that many drivers achieve fuel efficiency consistent with EPA ratings when driving responsibly. However, those who frequently drive aggressively or modify their vehicles report significantly reduced fuel economy. Nonetheless, most Toyota 86 owners acknowledge that fuel costs are a reasonable trade-off considering the car’s driving dynamics and enthusiast appeal. Overall, real-world experiences support the conclusion that the Toyota 86 strikes a reasonable balance between fun-to-drive character and fuel economy in the sports coupe category.