More Power for the BRZ… but Still No Turbo

2017 Subaru BRZ (Credit: © Subaru)

Earlier this year we learned the Scion FR-S will become the Toyota 86, and with that badge swap came a refreshed look and some mechanical changes for the Toyota-ized Scion. This led me to wonder whether its sister rig, the Subaru BRZ, would undergo similar changes. Today, Subaru confirmed my suspicions by announcing the details of the 2017 BRZ.

The outward changes, while subtle, are very noticeable. The front end features an all-new fascia with a revised lower splitter, redesigned air inlets on the outer edges of the bumper, newly available LED fog lights, and new LED headlights with LED accents. The backside of the 2017 BRZ gains a new aluminum spoiler on all trims, full-LED taillights, and a redesigned rear garnish above the license plate. This updated body rides atop new 17-inch, 10-spoke wheels with high-contrast finishes in the Premium trim level.

Inside, the BRZ gains a new steering wheel, updated audio and multifunction display controls, a leather-wrapped instrument panel visor, a new HVAC control panel, and a red “BRZ” logo embroidered on the front seatbacks. Those who opt for the range-topping Limited trim also get a new 4.2-inch LCD multifunction display that shows lateral Gs, accelerator pedal position, braking force, steering angle, oil and water temps, battery voltage, and a lap timer.

2017 Subaru BRZ (Credit: © Subaru)

Powering the 2017 BRZ is the same 2.0-liter boxer engine, but with its power tweaked to 205 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque in manual-equipped models—a 5-horsepower and 5-pound-feet increase. On top of the extra power, Subaru also replaces the 4.1-to-1 final drive with a 4.3-to-1 ratio for quicker acceleration. Models with the auto transmission carry on with the same specs as last year. Also new or 2017 are improved coil springs, dampers, stabilizer bar and strut tower braces, and the addition of a new Track mode.

Buyers looking for even more performance, Subaru has added a new Performance Package available on the Limited model with the manual transmission. This package tosses in Brembo calipers, larger front and rear rotors, and 17-inch wheels.

The BRZ will hit showrooms in September 2016, but the Performance Package will not arrive until winter. Pricing will arrive at a later date.