More performance for Subaru BRZ

Subaru is shortly to introduce its 2017 model year upgrade for the BRZ sports car, featuring a subtle facelift and significant changes to the drivetrain of manual variants.

Additionally, the revised BRZ – due here in November – will introduce suspension mods and improved cabin comfort.

The updated model is built in parallel with the Toyota 86 at the same factory.

Power for the manual BRZ is raised from 147 to 152kW and torque has been lifted from 205 to 212Nm. The enhanced engine output is complemented by a lower final drive ratio for faster acceleration and to take advantage of the higher engine speed where peak power is developed. Reduced exhaust back pressure, through larger-diameter exhaust manifold runners, and optimised air intake – in the form of a redesigned intake manifold – are the key components contributing to the added power.

Other changes to the engine pertain to valves, camshafts and cylinder block. Subaru has strengthened the block (with ribs added to the rear), shot-peened the pistons' crown/pin boss section at high speed, buffed/polished the valve stems for the new valves, specified a low-friction finish for the camshafts and optimised the fuel pump drive cam and rocker-arm pivots. In addition, the air-cleaner box, the fuel pressure sensor, the fuel pump, ECU hardware and wiring loom for the engine are all new. Most of these changes are aimed at improving refinement (reducing NVH) or augmenting durability.

Floorpan rigidity gets a boost with a modified rear wheel housing, a thicker strut-tower bar mounting bracket at the firewall and a redesigned transmission cross-member and thicker reinforcing plate.

The BRZ's suspension is claimed by Subaru to offer an improved "balance between ride comfort and driving stability". Optimised dampers front and rear, plus different spring rates are accompanied by a revised anti-roll bar at the rear for better steering response. A new 'Track' mode is offered as standard, as is Hill Start Assist.

The facelift comprises new LED headlights and tail lights, new bumpers, a boot garnish and a restyled 17-inch alloy wheel. In the cabin the BRZ scores fully automatic climate control, a new steering wheel, upgraded infotainment system (with a new audio system), redesigned instruments, new door mouldings, red stitching and optional seats with and BRZ embossing.

"BRZ was a runaway success when it launched in 2012 and the latest list of new features will add fresh appeal to a car that has gained an iconic reputation among motoring enthusiasts and sports car purists seeking something that feels intrinsically connected to the road," says Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior.

"With good reason BRZ has gained global accolades over the past four years and the long list of upgrades for 2017 will only bring more fun to the many fans that have made it a must-have among true drivers."