Affordable performance has a new look.
Subaru has taken the covers off the second generation BRZ sports car, unveiling an evolutionary look but promising more power thanks to a bigger engine. And while Subaru Australia hasn’t confirmed when it will go on sale locally or how much it will cost, it’s likely to retain its place as the most affordable rear-wheel drive coupe on sale; along with the new Toyota 86 it was co-developed with.
“It’s tremendously exciting to get these first glimpses into second generation BRZ,” said Subaru Australia general manager, Blair Read.
“This car gave the whole sports segment a massive shake when it originally launched in 2012 and based on what we know so far about the second generation, we’ve got very high hopes for its ongoing appeal in Australia.”
While the styling isn’t a major departure from the out-going model, it does tidy up the lines after eight years on sale. Importantly the initial interior shot shows a more polished cabin presentation, a major flaw of the first generation BRZ/86. There’s a new eight-inch infotainment screen that incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto too.
READ MORE: Is this the 2021 Toyota 86?
The biggest change though is under the bonnet, where the Subaru-developed four-cylinder boxer engine has expanded from 2.0-litres to 2.4-litres. The extra capacity means extra power too, now making 170kW (up from 147kW) and 249Nm of torque (up from 212Nm) which should please those calling for more grunt.
Another major change is the switch to stickier rubber, with Subaru USA confirming its models will ride on 18-inch alloys wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres.
But the other key aspects that made the BRZ/86 twins so popular remains – it’s still rear-wheel drive and still available with a six-speed manual transmission (and there’s an optional auto too).
Those who opt for the auto will also benefit from the introduction of Subaru’s EyeSight suite of active safety features, which includes pre-collision braking and adaptive cruise control.
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