All-New Subaru BRZ Unveiled Following Full Model Change

SUBARU BRZ | The Subaru BRZ

All-New Subaru BRZ Unveiled Following Full Model Change

Subaru announced the all-new BRZ on July 29th. The engine has been enlarged, and the AT model now features the "EyeSight" safety driving system.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

Flat-4 Grows from 2.0 to 2.4 Liters

The BRZ, born in 2012 as a pure FR sports car with a front-mounted boxer engine driving the rear wheels, has undergone a full model change to its second generation.

This iteration, like the first, was jointly developed by Subaru and Toyota. While sharing the car's base, significant effort was dedicated to imbuing each model with a distinct driving feel that highlights its unique character.

The full model change introduces a new 2.4-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, an increase in displacement from the first generation. Enhanced intake and exhaust performance, along with reduced friction, have improved torque, resulting in powerful acceleration.

The transmission options are a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. For the AT model, the Sport mode's control has been refined. Subaru states that when the car detects sporty driving, it automatically performs optimal shifts based on the driver's intentions and actions, enabling more direct cornering.

The platform has been re-engineered using an inner frame structure and structural adhesives, significantly improving body rigidity. Compared to the first generation, lateral bending rigidity at the front has increased by approximately 60%, and torsional rigidity by about 50%. This enhances responsiveness to steering inputs for more agile handling and improves traction during cornering.

Lightweight aluminum is used for the roof, hood, and front fenders. This not only suppresses weight gain from increased engine output and safety features but also optimizes front-rear and left-right weight distribution and further lowers the center of gravity, contributing to enhanced dynamic performance.

The exterior features a hexagonal grille positioned lower and wider, emphasizing the low center of gravity and conveying a sense of power. A tapered cabin and boldly flared fenders create a distinct sports car silhouette.

Moving to the interior, the simple, horizontally oriented instrument panel and low-set meter visor ensure a wide field of vision, creating a cabin space that allows for focused driving enjoyment. The seats are sporty, offering excellent hold and fit, providing a comfortable environment for long drives and enabling the driver to accurately feel the car's behavior.

For safety features, the "EyeSight" driver assistance system is standard on AT models. It supports safe driving with pre-collision braking and full-speed range adaptive cruise control.

Pricing starts at 3.08 million yen for the 6-speed MT "R" model and 3.267 million yen for the "S". The 6-speed AT "R" is priced at 3.245 million yen, and the "S" at 3.432 million yen.

SUBARU BRZ | The Subaru BRZ (Specifications for S model)