MOTOR RIVALS

Subaru of America Inc. announced a comprehensive update to the 2017 Subaru BRZ including improved handling, increased performance, more aggressive styling and new convenience features. These enhancements continue the company's original mission of offering enthusiasts a pure sports car with an unmatched driving experience.

The Subaru BRZ, known for its ultra-low center of gravity and precision handling, offers several updates to increase its performance on the track and open roads. For improved responsiveness, stability and comfort, BRZ receives updated coil springs and dampers as well as a larger rear stabilizer bar. Additional reinforcements to the chassis were added to the strut tower braces, transmission cross-member plate and the rear wheel housings to increase Subaru BRZ's rigidity. The stability control system thresholds are raised to further improve handing. The results are dramatic enough for Subaru to change the name of "Sport" mode to "Track".

The 2017 BRZ continues to evolve while maintaining a powerful design. The front bumper cover has been redesigned for a widened appearance and positioned lower for improved aerodynamics, control, and stability. The sport coupe's signature C-shaped headlights are upgraded to "kono-ji" style LED for improved light output and reduced power consumption. This new full-LED design, a first for Subaru, incorporates the turn signal and position light to complete the sleek new front fascia. New for 2017, Daytime Running Lights (DRL) have been integrated into the new headlights and are standard equipment on all trims. The available fog lights have also converted to LED, allowing a more compact design and greater nighttime visibility. The updated fender garnish matches the body color but with a black insert that accentuates it in profile.

All trims now receive an aluminum rear spoiler in matching body color and black finish. The new pedestal design improves the vehicle's downforce, which in turn improves stability and control. As with the headlights, the rear combination lights have been updated to full-LED for better visibility and energy efficiency. Also the rear garnish above the license plate has a new design that comes standard on both trims. The Premium and Limited models receive a new 10-spoke, 17-in aluminum alloy wheel with a high-contract black and machined finish.

Focusing on the driver experience led Subaru to institute several key updates to the cockpit. New for the Limited model is a 4.2-in LCD multifunction display positioned to the right of the prominent tachometer. This driver information readout provides access to vehicle performance including lateral Gs, accelerator pedal position, braking force, steering angle, oil and water temperature, and battery voltage as well as an integrated stop watch for recording lap times. The redesigned leather-wrapped steering wheel has a firmer, sportier feel along with new audio controls and multifunction display switches for greater control and convenience while driving. Paddle shift control switches are also standard on Subaru BRZ Limited with the optional automatic transmission.

Limited model interior upgrades also include a wrapped meter visor, updated HVAC control panel updated, and "BRZ" embroidered in red on the front seatbacks.

Subaru designs cars that are fun to drive and give drivers a sense of excitement through each and every turn and this tradition continues with the 2017 Subaru BRZ.

Powertrain

The Subaru BRZ 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER engine receives several internal updates for friction reduction including new valves, camshaft and cylinder heads. Accompanied with a new aluminum intake manifold and redesigned exhaust manifold for increased air flow, the engine output in models with the 6-speed manual transmission is increased to 205-hp and 156 lb-ft of torque. Also, a lower final drive ratio from 4.1 to 4.3:1, paired with the standard Torsen limited-slip differential, improves acceleration on models with manual transmission.

A naturally aspirated 2.0 liter horizontally opposed SUBARU BOXER engine is retuned to provide up to 205-hp, combining balance with power and efficiency. Direct- and port-injection technology provides more than 100 hp per liter without the need for turbocharging, while the Dual Active Valve Control System optimizes valve timing for maximum response all the way to the 7,400 RPM redline.

The BRZ features a standard 6-speed fully synchronized close-ratio manual transmission for pinpoint command. The BRZ Limited also offers 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, combining the convenience of an automatic with the thrills of race-style gear shifting.

An extremely low and rearward engine placement means you get a sports car with optimal balance, an extremely low center of gravity, lightning reflexes, and exceptional rear-wheel-drive handling dynamics. A re-calibrated vehicle stability control system features a ‘Track’ mode for even more handling control when you need it.

Now standard on all models is Incline Start Assist. This system holds the vehicle momentarily in position while the driver accelerates to prevent roll back on an incline.

Chassis

The 2017 BRZ now offers the Performance Package for drivers who demand even more from a sports car. The Performance Package is available on the Limited model with the manual transmission and includes Brembo calipers and larger rotors on both front and rear brakes. This advanced braking system gives Subaru BRZ a significant boost in stopping power, fade resistance, and pedal feel. SACHS Performance shock absorbers are added to all four corners for improved ride and corning stability. Also included in the package are unique 17-in x 7.5-in black aluminum alloy wheels. The Performance Package features Sachs dampers to provide a composed ride and help give the BRZ better control while cornering. This package also features the Brembo performance brake system for track-ready, fade-free stopping power, along with exclusive, wider 17x7.5-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Package will be available Winter 2017.

The BRZ is designed to perform like a sports car should, with independent MacPherson struts in the front and independent double wishbone suspension in the back. And its Torsen limited-slip differential provides improved grip, making it lively and dynamic through the corners. For 2017, all models feature revised suspension tuning for even sharper handling.

An ultra-quick 13.1:1 steering ratio provides instantaneous response to driver inputs and an outstanding feel for the road. The limited-slip differential provides both improved grip and predictable behavior, even when pushed to the limit.

A low 2,785-lb base curb weight enhances reflexes and sharpens handling for an overall improved performance.

Technology

Two Trim Levels: Premium and Limited Subaru offers the 2017 BRZ in Premium and Limited trims. The Subaru tradition of outstanding value is evident in both trim levels with their long list of standard amenities. Key among these is a comprehensive infotainment configuration anchored by the standard SUBARU STARLINK 6.2" Multimedia System that includes: 6.2-in. high resolution multi-function touch screen display; AM/FM stereo and HD Radio; Single-disc in-dash CD player with 8 speakers; Subaru STARLINK smartphone integration with Pandora and Aha; Subaru STARLINK apps including iHeart Radio and Stitcher; Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming; SiriusXM Satellite Radio and TravelLink; Rear vision camera.

The Subaru BRZ Limited offers additional comfort and amenities while still keeping vehicle weight low. Externally, the BRZ Limited is distinguished in front with LED fog lights and standard All-Weather Package that includes dual-mode heated front seats and heated side mirrors. Inside, the seats are upholstered with Alcantara inserts and leather bolsters. The Subaru BRZ Limited substitutes a dual-zone automatic climate control for the Premium model's manual HVAC system, and Keyless Access with Push-Button Start enhances both convenience and the sporty attitude. A full security system augments the engine immobilizer that is standard in the Premium model. In the Limited, the dual visor vanity mirrors are illuminated, and front door courtesy lights illuminate when the doors are opened. Paddle-shift control switches that are standard on BRZ Limited with automatic transmission. STARLINK Multimedia connects apps to your vehicle and to your fingertips. Access news, navigation, food, weather, music, podcasts, audiobooks, and other multimedia content through Pandora, Aha, STARLINK apps and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Whether you use an iOS or Android device, you can keep your hands on the wheel and attention on the road.

Performance gets smarter with all-new 4.2-inch LCD screen integrated into the instrument cluster, incorporating driver information like a digital G-force meter and lap time display.

Navigate in complete confidence with expert cloud-based navigation and routing by Magellan. Designed for SUBARU STARLINK, available Magellan NAVI allows you to plan the perfect route directly from your in-dash display without ever having to touch your smartphone. Cloud-based mapping ensures maps are never outdated, and the 1- and 3-year subscription plans are purchased and activated right on your mobile device. And, once purchased, vehicle’s Navigation unlocks so anyone with a smartphone can use the navigation system in that car. It’s safe, fast, easy, and effective.

The Keyless Access with Push-Button Start features touch-activated door unlock and one-touch start functions. It allows you to unlock, enter, and start the car without the key ever leaving your pocket.

Safety

Subaru's Ring-shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure, proven in all Subaru models since its introduction in 2000, forms the foundation for crash protection and occupant safety in the Subaru BRZ. The compact SUBARU BOXER engine enhances safety by allowing more crush room in front and on the sides. High-strength front seat frames provide increased protection against whiplash injury in a rear-end collision.

For protection inside the vehicle, the Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System utilizes dual-stage-deployment driver and front passenger airbags. Deployment strength depends on the proximity of the driver to the steering wheel, and whether there is a child or adult occupying the passenger seat. Front seat side pelvis/torso airbags and side curtain airbags offer additional security for front and rear occupants.