AIMS: Subaru pumps up BRZ with STI

PURCHASERS of Subaru Australia’s all-new BRZ sportscar will soon be able to order a range of factory-backed performance parts and accessories from its Subaru Tecnica International (STI) division.

And for those who plan to go racing in the boxer-engined rear-drive coupe – priced from $37,150 driveaway but with waiting times now stretching to November 2013 – Subaru has also announced a series of motorsport packages available through its New Zealand-based partner Possum Bourne Motorsport (PBMS).

Subaru Australia was quick to point out that the company itself does not intend to mount a racing campaign with the BRZ, but displayed the PBMS ‘project car’ at the Sydney motor show this week in response to the “huge level of enquiry from motorsport enthusiasts”.

Full pricing and details are still to be announced for the various packages, with the road-oriented sports kit – seen in all its glory with a fully dressed version on show at Darling Harbour – available to all current and prospective BRZ owners, meaning the accessories can be applied to vehicles that have already been ordered or delivered.

The STI components give buyers a chance to personalise their car – and perhaps steer them away from aftermarket suppliers.

They include lower front, side and boot-lid spoilers, a rear diffuser, sports muffler, flexible front suspension brace, coil spring set, a ‘Quick Shift’ gearlever, red push-button start switch, unique instrument panel trim and STI 17-inch alloy wheels in gunmetal, silver or black.

Left: Subaru BRZ PBMS Project Car and BRZ STI sports kit.

The range will be progressively available from Subaru dealers from November.

PBMS, meanwhile, has developed three track-ready packages, with the entry-level option including a fully installed roll cage kit, Recaro racing seats, Sabelt six-point harnesses, fuel system modifications including lines and connectors, and carbon-fibre parts including door panels.

The ‘upscale’ package unveiled in Sydney with the number 39 on its doors – marking 39 years since Subaru began operating in Australia – adds driveline and suspension modifications including Cusco height and damper adjustable coilover suspension, a brake package with AP rotors and callipers all-round and an STI handbrake, an electrical kit including wiring, circuit breakers and lightweight battery, Recaro winged-HANS seats, and Enkei 18 x 8.0 lightweight wheels with Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo R motorsport tyres.

The third option runs to individually tailored engine and gearbox enhancements, while customers can also start with a package and ‘cherry-pick’ components to suit their requirements.

Subaru Australia managing director Nick Senior promised the BRZ track car “will take the BRZ thrill to a whole new level for those that want some serious track-work”.

“There’s a massive level of interest among motorsport fans, so we’re keen to tap into that market,” he said.

“From day one we have always imagined the BRZ would appeal to the ‘weekend warriors’ – people who enjoy club level motorsport activities.”