Toyota and Subaru
recently confirmed plans for a second-generation 86 and BRZ, but appears Subaru
is preparing one final facelift for the current model. Spotted on the
Nürburgring, the prototype has a more aggressive front bumper with a larger
central air intake that is flanked by vertical openings. The car has also been
equipped with new front fender vents that reside behind the wheels.
The rear end
appears to carryover, but a closer inspection reveals color-matching camouflage
on the trunk and taillights. This suggests the components will updated, but the
changes will likely be minor. While the pictures only provide a glimpse of the
cabin, there could be a handful of interior updates. Like the 2020 Toyota 86,
the BRZ could gain a new infotainment system with a more modern design.
One that won’t
change is the BRZ’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine. Fans have been
begging for more power, but it should continue to be rated at 205 hp and 211 Nm of torque when connected to a six-speed manual
transmission. We can also expect a familiar six-speed automatic with a slightly
lower engine output of 200 hp and 204 Nm of
torque.
There’s no word on
when the facelifted BRZ will be introduced, but the 2020 model will go on sale
in the United States this fall. As a result, the updated car could arrive a
year from now as a 2021 model.
