- Subaru has introduced an updated BRZ in Japan.
- It features a new camera and improved manual.
- The US-spec model appears to eschew the latter.
This November will mark the sixth anniversary of the unveiling of the second-generation BRZ and Subaru is trying to keep it fresh by announcing a series of updates for the Japanese variant. However, it’s best to temper your expectations.
With that warning out of the way, there are a few relatively minor updates. The first is a “shift lever structure that utilizes knowledge gained through participation in the Super Taikyu Series.” Subaru didn’t elaborate, but models equipped with a manual should enjoy smoother shifting thanks to the changes.
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The upgrades to the manual variant don’t end there as the car has been equipped with a wide-angle monocular camera for the first time. It’s combined with a stereo camera featuring “expanded recognition range.” The changes enable the EyeSight driver assistance system to provide better crash avoidance support.
Japanese pricing starts at ¥3,377,000 ($20,768) including a 10% consumption tax. All trims are equipped with a familiar 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 232 hp (173 kW / 235 PS) and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque.
The entry-level R trim has LED headlights and 17-inch wheels. They’re joined by a leather-wrapped steering wheel, fabric seats, a digital instrument cluster, and a six-speaker audio system.
The ¥3,564,000 ($21,918) BRZ S adds larger 18-inch wheels as well as a fancier interior with leather and Ultrasuede seats as well as suede-like accents. They’re joined by two extra speakers and stainless steel sill plates.
The range-topping STI Sport begins at ¥3,839,000 ($23,610) and adopts black exterior accents as well as dark 18-inch wheels that are backed up by a Brembo braking system with gold calipers. Other highlights include STI-tuned dampers, a STI push-button ignition, and red interior flourishes.
As for the US-spec model, it was announced back in June. It gained a new wide-angle mono camera and rear parking sensors on the tS. Interestingly, the company didn’t mention improvements to the shifter.
That’s odd as the 2027 Toyota GT86 has a widened chamfer for the shifter interlock, between 4th and 5th gear, to deliver a smoother shift feel. The GT86 also gets a new paint color, the aforementioned camera, and a revised throttle calibration to deliver a “smoother, more linear response.”
