Subaru has updated its BRZ sports car with a tweaked style and a host of performance upgrades.
The 2017 Subaru BRZ has a more aggressive style, improved handling, more performance and new convenience features.
Performance upgrades include updated coil springs and dampers, a larger rear stabilizer bar and reinforcements to the chassis to increase rigidity. The stability control system thresholds were also increased to improve handling. Subaru believes the changes are so dramatic that Sport mode is now called Track mode.
The 2.0-liter Boxer engine also gets a few upgrades that result in more airflow, less friction and a slightly increased power output: horsepower in manual models is now rated at 205 hp and torque is now 156 lb-ft (the previous BRZ had 200 hp and 151 lb-ft). What will likely make a bigger difference to performance is a lower final gear ratio revised from 4.1 to 4.3:1, which will help acceleration on models with manual transmissions. Hill start assist will now also come standard.
The 2017 Subaru BRZ also got some cosmetic changes — the front bumper has been tweaked for a wider look and has been positioned lower for better aerodynamics. The coupe also gets new LED lights and the daytime running lights have been integrated into the headlights as standard equipment. The optional
fog lights have also been upgraded to LEDs.
Out back, all trims get an aluminum rear spoiler and the
tail lights have also been swapped out for LEDs. Premium and Limited models also get a new wheel design.
Inside, Limited BRZ models get a new 4.2-inch LCD display to the right of the tach that shows performance data like lateral Gs and braking force and has an integrated lap timer. The
steering wheel has been redesigned and has a firmer feel and now has audio controls and controls for the multifunction display.
A new Performance Package is also on offer for the manual Limited model that adds upgrades like Brembo brakes and larger rotors in the front and rear. SACHS Performance shocks and unique 17-inch black aluminum alloy wheels are included at all four corners.