Subaru Shows off its BRZ-Based STI Performance Concept

2017 STI Performance Concept (Credit: &Copy; Subaru)

Finally, there looks to be a little promise in the world of the Subaru BRZ. After many useless GT 86, FR-S and BRZ concepts, and several production models with tons of look-good parts, the BRZ finally has one with some go-fast bits too. For now, Subaru has dubbed this model the STI Performance Concept, but it really looks like a thinly veiled preview to a production BRZ STI.

Subaru played it very carefully in its press release, only giving away snippets of information. However, one big bit of info that it passed on was the fact that this concept uses the same engine as the BRZ Super GT racecar. This implies that this rig features a 2.0-liter turbocharged powerplant that pumps out around 300 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque.

2017 STI Performance Concept (Credit: &Copy; Subaru)

STI also meddled a bit with the suspension to help this concept handle the corners more confidently.

The body also received a wild upgrade, as STI added in an all-new aero kit that includes a new front fascia, a new front splitter, new side skirts, a massive rear wing, and a more aggressive rear diffuser.

The cabin also looks upgraded, as there are STI sports seats, black leather with red trim, and a carbon-fiber insert on the passenger’s side of the dashboard.

2017 STI Performance Concept (Credit: &Copy; Subaru)

All of the visual and aero bits are great, but the real deal here is the engine. However, this engine is also the cause for concern, as Subaru has said before that the BRZ would require heavy reengineering to handle a 300-horse STI-built engine. Changes are that we’ll have to wait until Suby redesigns the BRZ in a few years to see a production version of this concept hit showroom floors.

With that said, you never know with these shady automakers. Subaru may have been working on a BRZ STI for years now and just denied it to throw us off the scent.