2017 Subaru BRZ Facelift
Subaru has refreshed 2017 BRZ with improved handling, a few extra horses, new
features and some styling tweaks, and now, we can share some additional photos
and the first video of the coupe.
Most of the upgrades and updates on the
2017 BRZ are common with the facelifted Scion FR-S that will be sold as the
Toyota 86 after the demise of the Scion brand this fall.
Subaru promises enhanced performance for
the 6-speed manual model that gets a lower final drive ratio from 4.1 to 4.3:1
along with a 5 hp and 5 lb-ft boost to 205 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque
respectively for its 2.0L boxer engine, thanks to a new aluminum intake
manifold and redesigned exhaust manifold for increased air flow. The 6sp automatic
version retains the outgoing model’s 200 hp and 151 lb-ft four-pot.
All models gets a revised chassis with
updated coil springs and dampers along with a larger rear stabilizer bar,
reinforced strut tower braces, transmission cross-member plate and rear wheel
housings, plus increased thresholds for the stability control system. An
Incline Start Assist system that prevents the car from rolling back now comes
as standard.
Those demanding better handling can opt
for the Performance Package that’s available on the Limited trim with a 6 speed manual transmission and which adds Brembo calipers and larger rotors on all
four corners, SACHS Performance shocks and bespoke 17-inch black alloy wheels.
Subaru made
some subtle tweaks to the BRZ’s appearance, mainly on the front end with a
redesigned bumper and headlamps that now incorporate DRLs and optional LED fog
lights, while at the back, it gets the same LED tail lamps as the 86 along with
an aluminum spoiler. There are new alloy wheel designs too. Completing the
styling tweaks are some mild changes inside, such as the 4.2-in LCD display
placed to the right of the tachometer, a redesigned steering wheel with new
controls and an updated HVAC control panel.
