New Subaru BRZ leaked

Just hours after Subaru USA released the first teaser shot of the second-generation Subaru BRZ via social media yesterday, a number of images showing the entire camouflaged coupe have leaked out.

Taken at 2020 Subiefest World Record Attempt and Charity drive yesterday and posted to the GR86 enthusiast forum, the images show the new Subaru BRZ won’t stray too far from the original formula.

In addition to the sleek two-door silhouette there’s new jewellery including slimmer, wraparound lighting at both ends and a prominent front quarter vent behind the wheel, which from the official teaser image appears to be functional.

Instagram user stinicktuned also posted specs of the next BRZ’s engine, confirming what’s been widely reported: it will remain naturally aspirated but employ Subaru’s bigger 2.4-litre (2387cc) four-cylinder boxer engine (FA24D) with both direct and port injection (D-4S) to produce about 162kW/240Nm – up from 147kW/205Nm.

No images or information has been revealed for the new Toyota 86, but both models are again expected to be identical in terms of design and technology, so expect the same specs for what should be called the Toyota GR 86.

So far it’s not clear whether the compact rear-drive sports coupes will ride on an updated version of their predecessors’ Subaru-sourced rear-drive platform, or a new version of the larger Japanese car-maker’s TNGA platform.

Given current exchange rates and recent price increases by many Japanese brands, prices are likely to go up for the affordable coupe twins, which are presently priced from $32,180 (86) and $35,270 (BRZ).

As we’ve reported, following the earlier-than-expected commencement of Subaru’s official teaser campaign, the new BRZ is now likely to make its world debut as soon as this month.

Indeed, Subaru is already saying the 2022 BRZ’s world premiere will be in the northern hemisphere fall (autumn), which runs through to November.

Aussies will have to wait up to a year for first local deliveries, however, with our sources saying the new Toyota GR 86 and Subaru BRZ will arrive Down Under between September and November 2021.