The second-generation Subaru BRZ is now available for Thai buyers looking for a compact sportscar that offers high levels of driving pleasure.
The 2022 BRZ, officially launched in Thailand at the recent Bangkok Motor Show, is priced at 2.699 million baht for the manual and 2.849 million baht for the automatic.
According to Subaru, the new 2+2 model, which was co-developed with the Toyota Motor Corp (Toyota’s version is the 86), offers a higher level of driving pleasure as well as increased safety from the Eyesight Driver Assist Technology.
The new car features a wider hexagon front grille that is set lower, reflecting the low centre of gravity, which is one of the highlights of this car. There are several aerodynamic features such as side sill spoilers and air outlets behind the front wings that also double as accents in terms of exterior design. A rear spoiler gives the BRZ’s tail a sporty look as well as increase downforce.
The cabin features a low instrument panel with a 7-inch TFT screen, Ultrasuede sports seats with large side bolsters and an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity.
The new BRZ gets a larger power plant, a normally-aspirated 2.4-litre boxer engine that pumps out 237hp and 250Nm, offering stronger acceleration. Subaru says that by expanding the displacement, thoroughly strengthening intake/exhaust efficiency and reducing friction, the new power unit delivers a 15% increase in torque over the previous model’s 2.0-litre engine.
Customers can choose between a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, the latter coming with a refined sport mode that selects and holds lower gears for a more direct cornering performance. There’s also a track mode that weakens the stability control, allowing the rear wheels to slide longer during cornering.
The suspension set-up features struts up front and double wishbones at the rear, with stabilisers both front and rear, running on 18-inch alloy wheels.
Apart from the regular safety features, the new BRZ also gets intelligent safety such as pre-collision braking and adaptive cruise control. However, the package is offered only in the automatic version.
Developed under the Subaru Global Platform with new methods such as inner frame construction and structural adhesive application, the BRZ’s body delivers a 60% increase in front lateral bending rigidity and a 50% increase in torsional stiffness. Subaru says the stiffer body contributes to improved steering response, more nimble handling and better traction in cornering.
The use of aluminium for the roof, front wings and bonnet minimises the weight increase of the larger engine with added structural enhancements designed for improved collision safety. In addition, it contributes to an optimised weight layout and lowers the centre of gravity to improve the vehicle’s agility.
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