The 2017 Subaru BRZ Is Here With A New Face And Track Mode

A couple of months ago we were looking at the refreshed Toyota GT86, and now, its Subaru BRZ sibling has received the facelift treatment. At the front we’re looking at new LED headlights plus a lightly redesigned front bumper, while at the rear there’s a new aluminium spoiler and new LED clusters. Not that we’re given a view of the rear - weirdly the press release only contains a front and interior shot.

Speaking of the interior, Limited models get a 4.2-inch multifunction display to the right of the tachometer, while all versions receive a redesigned steering wheel.

The alterations aren’t just skin deep, with new springs and retuned dampers on the menu, plus a larger rear stabiliser bar. The strut tower braces, transmission cross-member plate and rear wheel housings have been reinforced meanwhile, to improve rigidity. All these changes mean the stability control thresholds can be raised, and while it was at it, Subaru has seen fit to rename ‘Sport’ mode as ‘Track’. The 2.0-litre N/A Boxer engine has been fettled to bring the power and torque to 202bhp and 156lb ft - representing a 5bhp and 5lb ft boost.

Want a slightly more hardcore version? The Performance Package - available only on Limited models - could be worth a look. Spec that, and you get Brembo brake callipers with bigger discs, Sachs shock absorbers and a set of 17-inch black alloy wheels.

The Premium and Limited versions will be in showrooms from September, while those wanting a Limited model with the Performance Package will have to wait until winter next year.