If you own a 2024 Toyota GR86 or Subaru BRZ, you’re probably itching to make your car feel a little more special—without draining your wallet. Good news: there are straightforward mods that can boost performance and actually make driving more fun, fast.
The best mods focus on improving power delivery, handling, and braking, giving your GR86 or BRZ a more exciting and responsive feel.
A lot of folks kick things off with exhaust upgrades or a simple tune. That’s because these changes can unlock a bit more horsepower and torque, making the car feel livelier right away.
You can also sharpen up handling with suspension tweaks and better brakes. These upgrades matter whether you’re carving up a back road or taking your car to the track.
Styling mods are out there too, and plenty of them are affordable. It’s easy to add a bit of personality to your car without going overboard.
Key Takeways
- Upgrading power and tuning delivers noticeable engine improvements.
- Suspension and brakes upgrades improve control and safety.
- Simple styling mods allow you to customize your car affordably.
Performance Upgrades for 2024 Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ
You can squeeze more out of your GR86 or BRZ’s engine by focusing on tuning, forced induction, and a few smart bolt-ons. Each one targets a different aspect of performance.
Engine Tuning
Engine tuning is all about adjusting your car’s ECU. Basically, it tweaks fuel and ignition timing to get more out of the engine.
A tune alone can make the throttle feel sharper and add a bit of horsepower—usually in the 10-15 hp range. That’s not earth-shattering, but you’ll notice it, especially if you add an intake or exhaust.
Some tuners offer custom maps, while others sell plug-and-play solutions. Just make sure you’re working with someone who knows these cars inside out.
Forced Induction Systems
Forced induction means strapping on a turbo or supercharger. These systems cram more air into the engine, letting you make a lot more power.
A turbo uses exhaust gas to spin up and really comes alive at higher rpm. Superchargers are belt-driven, so you get instant boost, but they can sap a little more fuel.
Depending on your setup, you could see gains of 50-100+ horsepower. It’s not a small project, though—expect to need a tune and maybe stronger engine parts to keep things reliable.
Horsepower Enhancement Mods
There are plenty of ways to help your engine breathe a bit easier. Here are a few favorites:
- Exhaust upgrades: Cat-back or axle-back systems can reduce backpressure and make your car sound better.
- Headers: UEL (unequal length) headers improve exhaust flow and can give you that boxer rumble.
- Intake systems: High-flow filters or cold air intakes bring in cooler air, which helps with combustion.
Paired with a tune, these mods can add another 10-20 horsepower. You’ll probably notice the engine feels a bit more eager, and the sound gets a little more aggressive.
Exhaust System Modifications
Swapping out the exhaust on your GR86 or BRZ is a classic move. You get a better sound, a bit more power, and sometimes less weight.
There are loads of options out there, from simple axle-backs to full cat-back systems. Brands like S-Type and Hipermax are popular for a reason.
Just think about how loud you want your car to be—and whether you need to keep things legal for emissions or inspections.
Aftermarket Exhaust Choices
For the 2024 GR86 and BRZ, you’ve got choices. Some systems are just mufflers, while others replace everything from the cat back.
Stainless steel setups are the go-to for most people, since they’re durable and lighter than stock. Look at brands like Borla, Greddy, and Invidia for well-fitting options.
If you drive your car every day, you might want something that sounds sporty but not obnoxious. Some exhausts focus on pure performance, while others are more about a deep tone.
S-Type and Hipermax Exhausts
S-Type and Hipermax are names you’ll hear a lot. The S-Type is known for a smooth, not-too-loud sound, and it’s lighter than stock.
Performance is improved, but you don’t get a ton of cabin drone. Hipermax exhausts are louder and flow better, so they’re for folks who want a more dramatic change.
Both fit the GR86 and BRZ, but they differ in weight and finish. S-Type tends to be lighter, while Hipermax is all about max power.
Sound and Emissions Considerations
Before you buy, check your local laws. Some exhausts are loud enough to get you pulled over or fail inspection.
If you need to keep emissions legal, look for a cat-back setup that leaves the catalytic converter in place. Some systems offer high-flow cats, which help with power but might not pass strict tests.
Want something quieter? Go for a system with resonators or well-designed mufflers. If you’re after max volume, just know you’ll probably get more interior noise and maybe some hassle from the neighbors.
Suspension, Handling, and Downforce Upgrades
Dialing in your GR86 or BRZ’s suspension is one of the best ways to make it feel sharper and more planted. The right mods can make a huge difference, especially if you like spirited driving or track days.
Suspension Kits and Hipermax Options
A good suspension kit will tighten up handling without making the ride unbearable. Hipermax coilovers are a favorite—they’re adjustable and don’t slam the car too low.
You get less body roll and firmer control, but daily driving stays comfortable. Adjustable springs and shocks let you pick your ideal setup.
Look for kits made for the GR86/BRZ, so you know they’ll fit right. Upgraded sway bars and bushings also help make the car feel more solid in corners.
Downforce and Wings
Adding downforce can really help at higher speeds or during hard cornering. Rear wings or lips designed for the GR86/BRZ boost grip at the back of the car.
Go for lightweight materials like carbon fiber or ABS plastic. Adjustable wings let you tweak the level of downforce, depending on how you drive.
Don’t forget about front splitters or canards—they help balance out the downforce and keep things stable up front.
Boosting Stability for Track Day
If you’re hitting the track, stability matters a lot. Anti-roll bars and chassis braces cut down on flex and make the car more precise.
Good tires are a must—sticky performance tires transform how the car feels. Upgraded brakes are also smart, since better stopping power means more confidence on fast laps.
Additional Modifications and Styling Enhancements
There’s more to making your GR86 or BRZ feel special than just performance. A few well-chosen upgrades can boost style, comfort, and even bring in some JDM flair.
Exterior Accessories
Exterior mods can totally change your car’s vibe. Splash guards like Rokbloks keep the paint looking fresh by blocking rocks and dirt.
Swapping in WRX brake calipers not only looks cool but can improve stopping power. Aftermarket rotors (like DS One) and stainless steel braided brake lines also help with brake feel and performance.
Stuff like front lips, side skirts, and rear diffusers add a bit of aero style. Tinted windows and lighter wheels are easy ways to freshen up the look, too.
Interior Comfort and Premium Features
The inside matters, too. Swapping out the stock seats for leather or suede makes the cabin feel more upscale and can last longer.
Custom floor mats with logos or extra padding keep things tidy and comfy. Upgrading the shift knob or adding aluminum pedals gives you a more tactile, sporty feel.
If you like your tech, wireless charging pads or a better sound system can make daily drives nicer. A few carbon fiber trim pieces or subtle accents go a long way in making the car feel more “yours.”
JDM and Japan-Specific Mods
Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) parts have this way of focusing on styling and performance details you just don’t see much outside Japan.
You might spot JDM-only bumpers, side skirts, or rear spoilers that really set a car apart.
JDM seats and steering wheels? Sometimes they’re slimmer or use different materials, aiming for a sportier feel.
There are also performance parts—think exhausts or intakes—built to Japanese specs that tweak the sound and sharpen the power a bit.
Honestly, picking up these Japan-made mods connects your car back to the GR86 and BRZ’s roots. It’s a cool way to get a rare, authentic vibe that’s tough to find with the usual aftermarket stuff.
