The Toyota GR86 has been an enduring symbol of Toyota’s long-running partnership with Subaru. The GR86 is also sold alongside the Subaru BRZ with the duo being respectable entries in the budget sports car segment.

A bold rumor from Japan is suggesting the company may be switching partners for the next generation model with the company potentially allying with its sometimes partner Mazda for the next-generation version.

A Miata by any other name

The report from the Japanese publication Best Car says that Toyota will switch the platform for the new model with the next-generation model using the Miata’s long-running (and aging) platform for its underpinnings. A separate report from Forbes seems to expand on this saying the new model could use a revised version of the MX-5’s current bones. This platform would not only allow the MX-5 to retain its roadster layout, but also have the flexibility to retain the GR86’s 2+2 coupe layout.

If this all pans out, Mazda would help Toyota build the new model with both of them possibly getting hybrid equipped four-cylinder engines in an attempt to boost fuel economy.

Hypothetical model would benefit both companies

If the two choose to go down this route, the new GR86 would benefit both companies and be somewhat viable on paper. Mazda has plenty of experience pushing the MX-5’s flexibility with the firm entering a blink or miss it agreement with Fiat to produce the revived and subsequently axed 124 Spider. That model had revised front and rear styling and a Fiat supplied turbocharged four-cylinder.

This time around, the company would be able to give it a more extensive revamp and have the opportunity to push some elements of the aging platform in ways that it couldn’t with the Fiat. As for Toyota, it can fully leverage its 5% stake in Mazda and allow the latter company to use its joint production facility in North America to reduce production complexity while also lowering R&D costs too.

A big piece of this plan hinges on whether Subaru chooses to discontinue the BRZ. The coupe is Subaru’s worst selling model and with the company expanding its focus on SUVs, ending the coupe would give Subaru more room to manage its resources.