Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ capture the minds of judges to win "Car of the Year"

The global panel of specialist's judges included engineers, technologists (whatever that means) and journalists have named the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86 sports coupe, Car of the Year.

As well they have honored its chief engineer, Tetsuya Tada, as Dynamicist of the Year, along with Toshio Masuda, his Subaru counterpart on the sports car project.

“By sticking to a tried and tested formula, Tada and Masuda have created a car that enthusiasts have been crying out for: one that eschews the never-ending quest for ultimate grip in favor of balance, response and driving pleasure at realistic road speeds.” added Matt Joy, the Press Association’s Motoring Editor on the Dynamicist of the Year title.

Toyota’s commitment to producing cars that are actually fun to drive, which was championed by Toyota president Akio Toyoda, has also earned it the accolade of Dynamics Team of the Year as well.

The Toyota GT86 (and Subaru BRZ) arrives as the car to revive Toyota’s sports car heritage. The GT86 and BRZ has been designed in every aspect to be a true driver’s car.

The character is determined by its classic front-engine/rear-wheel drive configuration and the use of a compact, lightweight, free-revving 2.0-liter boxer gas engine. Combined with a low center of gravity, low inertia and overall light weight, the result is pure driving pleasure for anyone lucky enough to get behind-the-wheel.

“In the face of rising power outputs and ever-greater levels of complication in the drivetrain, suspension and steering, cars from major manufacturers that take a less-is-more approach and offer fun at legal speeds have been thin on the ground.” said Graham Heeps, Vehicle Dynamics International magazine’s Editor. The judges felt that the simple approach helped earn the Toyota GT86 its Car of the Year status.

“That’s why we believe the Toyota GT86, and its twin sister the Subaru BRZ, are deserved recipients of the 2012 VDI Car of the Year Award.” added Heeps.

The judging panel gave much credit to Akio Toyoda, the president and CEO of Toyota, for inspiring a new direction in dynamics in both Toyota and Lexus models.

“A quick look at Toyota’s vehicle line-up should remove any doubt that there is a fierce competitor in the company driver’s seat, and that the tenets of motorsports, superior technology and the enjoyment of driving, serve as his guiding light.” added Phil Morse.

More info on the Vehicle Dynamics International Awards visit: www.vehicledynamicsinternational.com