UPDATESergiu Tudose wrote:Subaru's 2017 BRZ features better performance, more aggressive styling, more features and an all-new track mode that's sure to offer enthusiasts a superior overall driving experience.
In terms of performance, the 2017 BRZ boasts updated coil springs and dampers, as well as a larger rear stabilizer bar. Further reinforcements were made to the chassis by modifying the strut tower braces, transmission cross-member plate and the rear wheel housings in order to increase the car's rigidity.
For improved handling, the stability control system thresholds were raised, resulting in a dramatic change to the car's behavior - so much so that Subaru changed 'Sport' mode into 'Track' mode.
As for the 2.0-liter boxer engine, it now has new valves, camshaft and cylinder heads to go with its new aluminum intake manifold and redesigned exhaust manifold. The result is a slight increase in power to 205 HP and 156 lb-ft (211 Nm) of torque and better acceleration on 6-speed manual transmission models thanks to the new lower final drive ration (from 4.1 to 4.3:1).
Customers craving more can opt for the Performance Package, available on Limited spec versions. It includes Brembo calipers and larger rotors on both front and rear brakes, giving drivers a sizable boost in terms of stopping power, fade resistance and pedal feel. Also included in the package are the SACHS Performance shock absorbers and the unique 17" black aluminum wheels.
Styling-wise, the 2017 BRZ presents a redesigned front bumper, upgraded "Kono-Ji" style LED headlights, standard DRLs on all trims, LED fog lights, body-colored rear spoiler, full-LED taillights plus the new 10-spoke 17" alloys available on the two spec versions (Premium and Limited).
Inside, the Limited model comes with a 4.2" LCD multifunction display (6.2" on Premium spec), providing the driver with information such as lateral Gs, accelerator pedal position, braking force, steering angle, oil and water temperature, plus battery voltage and an integrated stop watch for recording your lap time whenever you find yourself on a race track. Also, those who prefer the automatic transmission will get to shift gears via the paddle shift controls. More subtle interior upgrades include the wrapped meter visor, updated HVAC control panel and "BRZ" embroidered in red on the front seats.
With Subaru Starlink smartphone integration and apps such as iHeart Radio and Stitcher, the 2017 BRZ is a well-connected car. It's also comes with Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, plus SiriusXM Satellite Radio, TravelLink and a handy Rear vision camera.
The 2017 Subaru BRZ is due to arrive at retailers in early September, though customers will need to wait until winter 2017 until the Limited version with the Performance Package arrives.
MICHAEL KARKAFIRIS wrote:Subaru of America has announced details of the updated BRZ, which now gains a Performance package and a new limited edition.
Following in the footsteps of its twin, the Toyota 86, the 2017 MY BRZ bears a revised exterior look, with new LED headlights and taillights, redesigned front and rear bumpers and new alloy designs.
Also new is the rear aluminum spoiler in a matching body color and black detailing, with Subaru claiming it imnproves downforce. The chassis has been reinforced behind the strut tower braces and to the transmission cross-member plate and rear wheel housings to increase rigidity.
A set of updated coil springs and dampers are also installed as well as a fatter rear stabilizer bar. Subaru says that the thresholds of the stability system are now raised to allow drivers experience more of the BRZ’s improved handling. There is no “Sport” mode anymore as the company changed the name to “Track”.
The 2.0-litre flat-four now churns out 205 HP and 156 lb-ft of torque in models fitted with the six-speed manual gearbox thanks to a new aluminum intake manifold and a redesigned exhaust manifold that increases the air flow. Subaru has also installed a lower final ratio from 4.1 to 4.3:1 paired with a standard Torsen limited-slip differential to improve acceleration on manual models.
The company also offers an optional Performance package for those demanding even more from their BRZ. The package consists of upgraded Brembo brakes with four-piston calipers on the front and dual-piston calipers on the rear. A set of Sachs Performance shock absorbers is also included while the package is completed with unique 17in alloy wheels. The package is priced at $1,195 which represents really good value.
Subaru will offer the 2017 BRZ in two trims, Premium and Limited. Prices start from $26,315 for Premium models with the Limited ones starting at $28,465. The company will also offer the limited-to-500-units Series.Yellow edition which is based on the Premium models with the Performance package.
Finished in a striking yellow paint with 17in black alloys, the new limited BRZ offers black leather and Alcantara upholstery with yellow stitching throughout the interior for the price of $30,515.
The first cars are expected to arrive at retailers this September, with the Performance-equipped and Series. Yellow models to arrive in early 2017.
