Subaru has launched the new BRZ STI Sport Type RA in Japan, with just 300 units set to be offered via a lottery system that is ongoing until the end of this month. Developed with knowledge gained from the brand’s participation in the Super Taikyu Series, the Type RA features significant upgrades over the STI Sport variant it is based on. Under the bonnet is the same FA24 engine found in the Team SDA Engineering BRZ CNF Concept that competes in the aforementioned racing series. Instead of extracting more power, Subaru focused on improving the balance of the 2.4 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder boxer for a smoother feel that is closer to unit in the race car. The changes are comprehensive, with the pistons and connecting rods having a 50% reduction in weight tolerance. Meanwhile, the crankshaft has an 80% reduction in rotational balance tolerance, while the flywheel and clutch are 67% and 50% lighter respectively. No change to outputs that remains at 235 PS (232 hp or 173 kW) and 250 Nm of torque. A dedicated plaque on the engine cover serves to remind onlookers that this isn’t a standard FA24, and the Type RA also gains rev-matching and flat-foot shifting “to reduce the burden on the car and driver.” The special edition also comes standard with an STI performance muffler, while the rear differential case has cooling fins to prevent the differential oil from overheating. As for handling improvements, there are flexible V-bands and a new sway bar to stiffen up the chassis, which is paired with unique ZF dampers. The gold Brembo brake callipers come from the STI Sport variant and sit behind new 18-inch BBS aluminium wheels. A black ‘BRZ’ emblem and full aero kit complete the Type RA, the latter available with or without a dry carbon rear spoiler. Subaru says 200 out of the 300 units offered will not come with the spoiler and is priced at 4.972 million yen (about RM133k), while the remaining 100 units at 5.478 million yen (RM147k) are with the spoiler. Only two colours are offered, namely WR Blue Pearl and Crystal White Pearl, with the second option costing an extra 33,000 yen (RM884). Unlike the regular STI Sport, the Type RA only comes with a six-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels. At its starting price, the Type RA is more expensive than the STI Sport that goes for 3.784 million yen (RM101k), with spoiler-fitted version being the most expensive version of the BRZ currently on sale in Japan. Compare prices between different insurer providers to save the most on your car insurance renewal compared to other competing services. Many payment method supported and you can pay with instalment using Grab PayLater or Shopee SPayLater.