Revised BRZ to cause Buzz (603)

Revised BRZ to cause Buzz

Subaru’s multi award-winning BRZ sports coupe is again turning heads with a long list of technical and cosmetic changes that are set to enhance its reputation as the affordable fun favourite for driving enthusiasts.

A substantial suite of upgrades – including more power and torque for manual transmission variants (from 147 Kilowatts to 152 kW and from 205 Newtonmetres to 212 Nm), revised suspension tuning, as well as a distinctive facelift - are set to highlight BRZ’s formidable appeal when it launches in November.

MY17 BRZ highlights include:

• New LED head lights and tail lights
• Significant engine refinements in manual transmission models
• Vehicle Dynamics Control TRACK mode
• Hill Start Assist
• Wider and lower look from new bumper design
• New 17-inch alloy wheel design
• Full auto air-conditioning
• New steering wheel
• Upgraded infotainment
• Enhanced instrument gauges
• Cabin upgrades, including red stitching and BRZ-embossed front seats (option)

Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior, said: “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.

“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.”

As with the entire Subaru new car range, MY17 BRZ shares a five-star rating for occupant safety from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).  

EXTERIOR
BRZ’s revised front bumper and headlight treatment emphasizes the coupe’s low and wide stance.

The front spoiler shape resembles an aircraft wing, extending from the lower horizontal intake to the sides. This design reflects Subaru’s aerospace heritage and also provides optimum aerodynamics for enhanced control and stability.

The C-shaped head lights follow the familiar theme of new generation Subarus, producing a more intense sportier look with attitude.

And it is not all cosmetic – BRZ has Subaru’s first full LED head lights, for a more commanding on-road presence with updated technology to incorporate Daytime running Lights.

LED segments are also used in the indicators, which are arranged horizontally to complement the wider, sharper style.

Using LEDs for the low beam produces a high response level and better light distribution, for improved visibility. Power consumption is also reduced and estimated to save up to 20% in operating power compared to the superseded HID versions.

The front fog lights are also LED, for a sleek, compact design, while also reducing power consumption up to 75%.

The garnish on the front guard, close to the A-pillar base, is also enhanced with a sportier, more flowing design.

At the back, the bumper also incorporates full LED rear combination lights, giving the side and rear a sleeker, more elegant profile.

The more sophisticated and sporty 10-spoke 17-inch aluminium wheel design also increases rigidity and control, enhancing the car’s handling characteristics.

A new boot garnish has a smooth flowing surface design. Producing a cleaner finish, the number plate light, boot opener switch, rear view camera and key cylinder are relocated to within the garnish.

INTERIOR
The instrument panel and door panels are designed for a more sophisticated appearance and driver cohesion.

The gauge layout retains the same level of visibility, while the multi-information panel has a more elegant font and sculpted feel.

The tachometer is positioned in the middle, with an exclusively-designed 4.2-inch colour LCD screen on the right that displays performance metrics to complement sporty driving.

Information includes:

• Tachometer
• Digital speedometer
• Shift position
• Fuel gauge
• Mode indicator during sports drive mode
• TRACK
• REV indicator

The display can be changed easily using intuitive steering wheel-mounted controls.

The stylish interior features red stitching along all instrument panel seams, consoles and door trims, with the design focused on providing a better texture and feel.

The re-shaped steering wheel has a luxurious feel and enhanced control with fine-tuned grip, for greater focus on driving. With a smaller outer diameter, different grip cross-sectional shape, new paddle switches and premium-feel leather, the overall finish complements BRZ’s sporty nature.

In addition to physical design upgrades, audio control switches and instrument panel gauge switches are newly added.

Other cabin items changed to create a more premium feel include:

• Instrument panel decorative panel
• Knee pads
• Main instrument panel visor
• Full-auto air conditioner controls

The air conditioning panel surface features the same carbon fibre film inserts as the door switch panels. The shape and design of the control knobs are changed to a shaved metallic style, for enhanced visual appeal.

Door trim surface material is changed to smooth leather texture, providing a more elegant feel.

AUDIO SYSTEMS
BRZ’s audio system is upgraded to reflect the standard and format of other new generation Subarus.

The six-speaker 6.2-inch Graphic User Interface touchscreen system features Bluetooth connectivity and voice recognition.

TECHNICAL
In manual transmission BRZ, increased engine power and a lower final gear ratio work in tandem to deliver sprightly performance that is instantly noticeable the moment drivers take off.

The changes give manual BRZ a performance boost that solidifies its sports car reputation, with satisfying power delivery across the entire operating range.

Powertrain tweaks and improvements include the engine, intake and exhaust system, and drivetrain.

ENGINE – MANUAL VARIANTS
Revised valves, camshafts and cylinder block produce a more responsive manual transmission BRZ.

Power is improved to 152 kW at 7000 rpm and torque to 212 Nm at 6400-6800 rpm. (In automatic variants it remains at 147 kW/7000 rpm and 205 Nm/6400-6600 rpm).

Manual transmission BRZ’s engine is fine-tuned for higher power output and a more linear feel. A special low-gear ratio transmission and differential are used to deliver power more directly.

The higher power output in manual transmission variants is achieved mainly through a combination of reduced pressure loss and optimized intake efficiency.

Reduced pressure loss is achieved by changing the shape of the exhaust system air cleaner case and boot.

Intake efficiency is also optimised by changing the shape of the intake manifold.

Among the engine changes:

• Increased cylinder block rigidity
• Greater piston durability
• Buffed and polished valve stems
• Low-friction finish for the camshaft
• Optimized fuel pump drive cam
• Optimized internal shape of rocker arm pivots
• Changed shape of fuel system components
• Changed fuel pressure sensor
• New generation fuel pump
• Changed ECU hardware
• Changed engine harness

CYLINDER BLOCK

Cylinder block rigidity is increased to ensure reliability with the higher power output. Stiffening ribs are added to the rear wall.

PISTONS
Piston durability is improved to suit the higher pressure within cylinders.

Piston crown surface and pin boss section are improved using FSR-K treatment for greater strength - a first for Subaru. FSR-K treatment involves shot peening small particles at high speeds to produce a stronger layer on the material surface, due to microscopic plastic deformation.

ROCKER ARM
Weight is also reduced by using the same specification rocker arm pivots as other new generation Subaru models.

INTAKE/EXHAUST VALVES
The intake valves and exhaust valves are newly designed. The stem has a buffed finish, reducing friction.

CAMSHAFT
Roughness on the camshaft journals is improved to reduce friction. The amount of fuel pump cam lift is reduced to help optimize the fuel pump flow rate (left-hand intake only). The fuel pump operating range is decreased to reduce friction too.

INTAKE MANIFOLD
An aluminium intake manifold is used in manual BRZ to maximize intake pulse resonance. It optimizes intake manifold length and increases the area of the ports. Symbolizing the increase in performance, the actual intake manifold is finished in wrinkle red paint.

The air cleaner element, air cleaner box and intake system are also exclusively designed for the manual model, for more streamlined intake air channels throughout the entire system. Airflow resistance is improved by approximately 30%.

The air intake system is suited to higher engine power output.

Noise reduction measures include the air cleaner capacity increased and various muffling parts (intake duct, intake boot) optimized to minimise levels.

EXHAUST
The manual transmission exhaust system is optimized to match the higher efficiency of the intake system.

The diameter of the 4-2-1 front exhaust pipe is increased to maximize exhaust pulse resonance. The diameter of each branch is increased from 42.7 mm to 45 mm and 45 mm to 48.6 mm, combined with the use of equal length pipes and an optimized collector shape.

TRANSMISSION
A lower final gear ratio is used to give the manual a more direct connection to driving, as well as allowing drivers to enjoy the increased power output across the entire engine range. The final gear ratio is changed from the previous 4.100 to the new 4.300 for easy, satisfying acceleration right from take-off until changing up to the next gear.

Durability of the six-speed transmission is also increased to suit the engine’s higher power output.

CHASSIS AND BODY
Overall, BRZ delivers an exceptional level of high response, control and stability - and the refined ride comfort of a quality sports car.

Increased thickness of the V-shaped strut tower bar mounting bracket on the middle of the dash panel enhances chassis rigidity.

Rigidity is improved by increasing the thickness of the transmission cross-member reinforcing plate and changing the shape of the cross-member, plus added reinforcement to the outside of the rear wheel housing.

The material and shape of the undercover front side insulator is changed to ensure thermal protection, following changes to the exhaust system and final gear ratio.

The shape and material of the silencer is changed to reduce vibration and noise following changes to the rear differential.

SUSPENSION
BRZ’s response is enhanced by a more sophisticated suspension layout to improve driving stability and ride comfort.

These include:

• Optimized friction of front struts and rear shock absorbers, improving the balance between ride comfort and driving stability.
• Changed damping force of front struts and rear shock absorbers, plus changed spring constant of front and rear coil springs, optimising ride comfort and driving stability.
• Changed structure of front struts and rear shock absorbers improves chassis response.
• Added load axle control to front coil springs produces smooth, easy-to-control steering feel.
• Changed wire diameter of rear stabilizers improves turning ability.
• Changed shape of front differential mount stoppers improves vibration and noise suppression.

SAFETY
New Vehicle Dynamics Control “TRACK” mode gives drivers greater stability control for better handling, while Hill Start Assist offers greater peace-of-mind.

The advanced airbag system features new sensors and other refinements for a greater safety level.

TRACK MODE
TRACK mode adds to the excitement of driving a rear-wheel drive sports car – with subtle use of the accelerator pedal to control it. This mode provides a greater level of stability and driving enjoyment during sporty driving, particularly on race tracks.

The settings give additional peace-of-mind to drivers. The system helps maintain control of the car if it begins to behave unpredictably.

HILL START ASSIST
The Hill Start Assist prevents the car from rolling back when taking off uphill or on slopes. It temporarily holds the car steady when the driver releases the brake pedal to press the accelerator, when going forward up hill or reversing down hill. The system can be set to ON/OFF.

BRZ MY17 MODEL SPECIFICATIONS AT A GLANCE:

SAFETY

• ABS anti-lock brakes with four-wheel discs and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Automatic on/off headlamps
• Automatic transmission lock-out - need foot on brake, key in ignition “on” position, to release lever
• Brake Assist
• Child seat tether anchor points + ISOFIX
• Curtain airbags
• Driver’s knee airbag
• Dual front airbags
• Dual side airbags
• Front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
• Full size spare wheel
• LED high and low beam head lights; LED tail lights
• Ring-shaped reinforced passenger cabin
• Seatbelt indicator lights
• Shock absorbing brake and clutch pedals
• Side intrusion bars
• Vehicle Dynamics Control TRACK mode for enhanced safety

INTERIOR

• Alloy pedals
• AM/FM tuner CD player, six speakers, USB connectivity and Bluetooth
• Automatic dual zone air conditioning
• Bottle holders in front doors + two cup holders in centre console
• Cargo area light
• Central locking - remote
• Centre console with one 12-Volt outlet – second outlet in glovebox
• Cruise control
• Driver’s footrest
• Fold-down one-piece rear seat
• Height and reach adjustable steering column
• Height adjustable driver’s seat
• Hill Start Assist
• Immobiliser security system
• Leather wrapped steering wheel with red stitching
• Leather wrapped gearshift knob and handbrake lever
• Map light
• Power steering, mirrors and windows
• Push-button start and smart key entry
• Remote fuel lid release – tethered fuel cap
• Seatback pocket (passenger side)
• Side sill cover (alloy)
• Six speed manual transmission option
• Six-speed automatic transmission option with paddle shift
• Sport front seats – driver’s seat six-way manual adjustable
• Two remote central locking smart keys
• Vanity mirrors – front passenger and driver (illuminated)

EXTERIOR

• 17-inch alloy wheels – full size spare
• Colour-coded mirrors and door handles
• Daytime running lights
• Engine, transmission and floor undercover
• Front fog lights
• Power folding door mirrors
• Rear diffuser
• Rear fog light
• Rear roof mounted radio antenna
• Twin exhaust

OTHER FEATURES

• Anti-theft security system with engine immobiliser
• Boot unlock on key
• DataDot security technology
• Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
• Three years/60,000 kilometres Capped Price Servicing
• Three-year unlimited kilometre warranty
• Torsen Limited Slip Differential
• 2.0 litre DOHC horizontally opposed boxer engine with dual AVCS.
• Manual: 152 kW/7000 rpm, 212 Nm/6400-6800 rpm
• Auto: 147 kW/7000 rpm, 205 Nm/6400-6600 rpm

OPTIONS

• Leather and Alcantara trim, with front seat heaters

BRZ MY17 HIGHLIGHTS

VALUE

• One of the most entertaining, affordable sports cars available
• Precise, road-hugging handling normally expected from the supercar class
• Three years/60,000 kilometres Capped Price Servicing

EXTERIOR

• Amazing on-road presence
• New 17-inch alloy wheels, designed for light weight, rigidity and braking performance
• Daytime running lights
• Wider and lower look from new bumper design

INTERIOR

• BRZ-embossed front seats (option)
• Driver’s seat low and close to the CoG – signals BRZ’s seriously sporty ability
• Completely round small diameter steering wheel aids manoeuvrability; additional function buttons
• Rev and Red Zone indicator for sporty driving
• Push-button start adds to sporty ambience
• Front seats offer firm support
• Red stitching + metallic-type accents add to sporty cabin look
• Fold-down rear seat for increased cargo capacity
• Upgraded infotainment

ENGINEERING

• Subaru DNA stamped all over BRZ – some components developed from WRX STI.
• Low Centre of Gravity - produces agility and a thrilling, nimble drive
• 55:45 (manual) and 56:44 (auto) weight distribution aids dynamic excellence
• New generation FA 2.0 litre DOHC naturally aspirated engine - high output, fuel efficient and eco-friendly
• D-4S injection system with dual Active Valve Control System (AVCS) for superb linear power delivery from low revs
• First Subaru engine to feature direct petrol injection
• Six-speed paddle shift automatic transmission option – choice of Sports, Manual and Normal mode
• Short shift six-speed manual option
• Suspension set-up unique to BRZ - tuned to provide handling excellence
• Sporty dual exhaust + aerodynamic diffuser surround
• Lightweight plastic underfloor fuel tank for more efficient space use
• “Torsen” limited slip rear differential.
• Propeller shaft is based on the design in the Subaru WRX STI
• Enhanced instrument gauges

SAFETY

• ANCAP five-star crashworthiness rating for occupant safety
• Lightweight, high strength body - ratio of high-tensile sheet metal increased, reducing weight while maintaining structural integrity and crashworthiness
• Ring-shaped reinforcements around the cabin – strategic reinforcement with high tensile steel plate
• Vehicle Stability Control - four-mode (including TRACK mode)
• Hill Start Assist
• Dual front, side, curtain and driver’s knee SRS airbags
• Retractor brake pedal

SECURITY

• DataDot theft protection
• Anti-theft system with engine immobiliser

Read more about the Subaru BRZ