Subaru has unveiled an “improved” version of the BRZ
in Japan. While the model is coming up on its seventh anniversary, the car
hasn’t been forgotten despite its modest sales figures. The
updates are minor and will likely go unnoticed by most buyers.
Subaru says the car has an
improved aerodynamics as the BRZ has been outfitted with new fins which
suppress air turbulence at the “rear of the body.” Elsewhere, engineers
installed revised dampers which promise to improve stability and control.
Besides the aforementioned updates, the JDM-spec BRZ RA-Racing has new seat
belts and a modified roll bar.
Power is provided by a familiar 2.0-liter
four-cylinder engine that produces up to 204 hp and 212 Nm of torque. It can be connected to either a six-speed manual or an
optional six-speed automatic transmission. In Japan, pre-tax pricing starts
at ¥ 2,480,000 (US$ 22,238) for the entry-level BRZ R and tops out at ¥ 3,325,000
(US$ 29,815) for the STI Sport with the automatic gearbox.
Speaking of the latter model, Toyota has already
unveiled the 2019 86 and it features a new TRD special edition. It comes equipped
with a number of performance upgrades including Brembo brakes, SACHS dampers
and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer
tires.
