Subaru BRZ 2023
Discussion
Exciting times! Just picked up a 2023 Subaru BRZ in Crystal White Pearl, joining my small (but growing) fleet.
Now, from what I understand, the BRZ didn't make it to the UK, but its Japanese cousin, the GR86, did and is pretty well-regarded.
The car's standard in every single way, with only 7,000 km on the clock.
The current owner (well, until tomorrow!) is a car enthusiast from Hong Kong, and let’s just say he's probably got one too many toys in the garage.
The car was listed at a fair price, but after some hard cash negotiations (I’m a Yorkshire lad, after all!), I ended up sealing the deal at 93,000 AED—which works out to just over £19k. For a nearly-new car with warranty, I’m pretty happy with that.
As for the spec, the UAE doesn’t offer many options, you just get what you're given. But the important bit: it’s a manual! No dreaded auto here.
Tomorrow, I’ll be heading in for the pre-registration inspection (think of it as an "MOT Lite") before finalizing everything and officially taking ownership. Once that’s done, I’ll drop some more details and, of course, some pics!
Now, the UAE isn’t exactly the best place for a sports car, with endless 8-lane highways, but we do have some decent mountain roads like Jebel Jais and Jebel Hafeet, plus a few desert routes. I’ll definitely make sure to have some fun with it.
Here are a few snaps from the viewing:
Now, from what I understand, the BRZ didn't make it to the UK, but its Japanese cousin, the GR86, did and is pretty well-regarded.
The car's standard in every single way, with only 7,000 km on the clock.
The current owner (well, until tomorrow!) is a car enthusiast from Hong Kong, and let’s just say he's probably got one too many toys in the garage.
The car was listed at a fair price, but after some hard cash negotiations (I’m a Yorkshire lad, after all!), I ended up sealing the deal at 93,000 AED—which works out to just over £19k. For a nearly-new car with warranty, I’m pretty happy with that.
As for the spec, the UAE doesn’t offer many options, you just get what you're given. But the important bit: it’s a manual! No dreaded auto here.
Tomorrow, I’ll be heading in for the pre-registration inspection (think of it as an "MOT Lite") before finalizing everything and officially taking ownership. Once that’s done, I’ll drop some more details and, of course, some pics!
Now, the UAE isn’t exactly the best place for a sports car, with endless 8-lane highways, but we do have some decent mountain roads like Jebel Jais and Jebel Hafeet, plus a few desert routes. I’ll definitely make sure to have some fun with it.
Here are a few snaps from the viewing:
MTK1919 said:
Tomorrow, I’ll be heading in for the pre-registration inspection (think of it as an "MOT Lite") before finalizing everything and officially taking ownership.
Haha love that, although I think n MOT Lite is still a little strong for what they do! Think my last test was open for all of 2 minutes. Money making at its best.Lovely looking car, nice to see something other than a big SUV. I've had my Focus ST for 9 years now, another of the few cars available with a manual.
MattsCar said:
TVRBRZ said:
Nice! I was gutted that Subaru didn't offer the new BRZ in the UK. It promised to fix everything that I couldn't live with my mk1.
Enjoy!
Is there any difference between a BRZ and a GR86 other than a badge?Enjoy!
The throttle mapping on the BRZ is meant to be slightly more forgiving.
Front bumper is different.
Minor difference on interior trim.
Otherwise it's identical.
Well she's landed.
Did the handover this morning and I'm thrilled.
My first car in Dubai was a manual (Cayman S) following that I had an E36 M3. Since then it's been 12yrs worth of autos (yawn). Whilst I've kept my eye in the game with several MT hire cars while travelling, it's refreshing to be back juggling 3 pedals.
Handover went without a hitch and I was on my way. The car feels minuscule in comparison to it's big brother (see pic) but it was a right laugh dodging between the traffic and taking roundabouts at (what felt like) crazy speeds.
20mins is all it took to put a big grin on my face - I understand why these have had some great reviews and I'm not even beginning to scratch the surface.
Pics for now. Not particularly clean (although engine is still pretty shiny).
Did the handover this morning and I'm thrilled.
My first car in Dubai was a manual (Cayman S) following that I had an E36 M3. Since then it's been 12yrs worth of autos (yawn). Whilst I've kept my eye in the game with several MT hire cars while travelling, it's refreshing to be back juggling 3 pedals.
Handover went without a hitch and I was on my way. The car feels minuscule in comparison to it's big brother (see pic) but it was a right laugh dodging between the traffic and taking roundabouts at (what felt like) crazy speeds.
20mins is all it took to put a big grin on my face - I understand why these have had some great reviews and I'm not even beginning to scratch the surface.
Pics for now. Not particularly clean (although engine is still pretty shiny).
Edited by MTK1919 on Wednesday 16th April 18:20
Treated the little motor to a full paint correction, polish and ceramic coating (including engine bay and interior spruce up).
The pics don't show it in this light but the paintwork is looking great. There is a deepness now to it which was somewhat lacking before.
Minor gripe - whatever they've done to the rubber floor mats has turned it into (what feels like) sheet ice. I was forced to keep the paper floor mat in place just so I could drive the thing!!
The pics don't show it in this light but the paintwork is looking great. There is a deepness now to it which was somewhat lacking before.
Minor gripe - whatever they've done to the rubber floor mats has turned it into (what feels like) sheet ice. I was forced to keep the paper floor mat in place just so I could drive the thing!!
Small update on the BRZ, it's flipping brilliant.
As the temps are exceeding 40c now it's good to know the AC is good. I'd argue it's amongst the best I've experienced during my 12yrs here. With a small cabin to cool down, its icy cold in no time.
I've recently I've upgraded the factory front speakers with some plug and play Focal's. They were pretty cheap at £150 but have made good difference. I'd estimate the woofers weigh about 4 times more than the shocking factor units. I completely get this is not what the car is about, but it's nice to listen to some music without it sounding like a biscuit tin!
During the speaker swap, I added some (relatively cheap) Noico sound insulation. I didn't go overboard but it's certainly improved the "thud" when the door is closed. I also did under the boot mat as it's quite exposed. Mine has a full sized spare wheel so there's a huge opening to accommodate the wheel. There's still a fair amount of road noise but from what I've read, a lot of that is down the factory spec Michelin PS4 tyres. I will probably change these for the PS4s when they need replacing.
Unfortunately, no pics of the above work so it's just my boring commentary! Nevertheless some more general pics below.
Overall, I'm loving this car. It's an absolute hoot to drive, has just a nice amount of power and torque. It enjoys a good thrashing and the handling is superb.
As the temps are exceeding 40c now it's good to know the AC is good. I'd argue it's amongst the best I've experienced during my 12yrs here. With a small cabin to cool down, its icy cold in no time.
I've recently I've upgraded the factory front speakers with some plug and play Focal's. They were pretty cheap at £150 but have made good difference. I'd estimate the woofers weigh about 4 times more than the shocking factor units. I completely get this is not what the car is about, but it's nice to listen to some music without it sounding like a biscuit tin!
During the speaker swap, I added some (relatively cheap) Noico sound insulation. I didn't go overboard but it's certainly improved the "thud" when the door is closed. I also did under the boot mat as it's quite exposed. Mine has a full sized spare wheel so there's a huge opening to accommodate the wheel. There's still a fair amount of road noise but from what I've read, a lot of that is down the factory spec Michelin PS4 tyres. I will probably change these for the PS4s when they need replacing.
Unfortunately, no pics of the above work so it's just my boring commentary! Nevertheless some more general pics below.
Overall, I'm loving this car. It's an absolute hoot to drive, has just a nice amount of power and torque. It enjoys a good thrashing and the handling is superb.
E-numbers said:
Cat looks great, and amazing how much difference to your enjoyment little changes like the speakers make. I’ve just done the same job on my MX5.
Thanks :-). Little tweaks here and there are rewarding as you truly make it your own.
Forgot one of the most important mods! I got a booster seat for my 5yr old so he could join in the fun. The space in the rear is compromised (as you can imagine) but it's fine for him and is manageable for the 10yr old too (just).
One negative is the engine sound. It sounds like a proper tractor when just pootling around and then the fake noise takes over higher up the rev range. Clearly it's easy to disconnect the speaker that produces that sound but nothing will sort out the low speed John Deere experience! I do wish it would sound like a proper old school Impreza!
Composite Guru said:
Good taste in car and colour. Glad you are enjoying it..
Lucky to have bagged a GR86 from new myself. It’s such a fun car to drive. Only wanted white one as I thought it was the best colour.
Thanks :-). Lucky to have bagged a GR86 from new myself. It’s such a fun car to drive. Only wanted white one as I thought it was the best colour.
It's hard not to love this car, it just puts a smile on my face. I just wish I was back in the UK countryside enjoying some proper roads!
Love the black trim on yours
MTK1919 said:
Small update on the BRZ, it's flipping brilliant.
As the temps are exceeding 40c now it's good to know the AC is good. I'd argue it's amongst the best I've experienced during my 12yrs here. With a small cabin to cool down, its icy cold in no time.
I've recently I've upgraded the factory front speakers with some plug and play Focal's. They were pretty cheap at £150 but have made good difference. I'd estimate the woofers weigh about 4 times more than the shocking factor units. I completely get this is not what the car is about, but it's nice to listen to some music without it sounding like a biscuit tin!
During the speaker swap, I added some (relatively cheap) Noico sound insulation. I didn't go overboard but it's certainly improved the "thud" when the door is closed. I also did under the boot mat as it's quite exposed. Mine has a full sized spare wheel so there's a huge opening to accommodate the wheel. There's still a fair amount of road noise but from what I've read, a lot of that is down the factory spec Michelin PS4 tyres. I will probably change these for the PS4s when they need replacing.
Unfortunately, no pics of the above work so it's just my boring commentary! Nevertheless some more general pics below.
Overall, I'm loving this car. It's an absolute hoot to drive, has just a nice amount of power and torque. It enjoys a good thrashing and the handling is superb.
It has a very pleasing rumpAs the temps are exceeding 40c now it's good to know the AC is good. I'd argue it's amongst the best I've experienced during my 12yrs here. With a small cabin to cool down, its icy cold in no time.
I've recently I've upgraded the factory front speakers with some plug and play Focal's. They were pretty cheap at £150 but have made good difference. I'd estimate the woofers weigh about 4 times more than the shocking factor units. I completely get this is not what the car is about, but it's nice to listen to some music without it sounding like a biscuit tin!
During the speaker swap, I added some (relatively cheap) Noico sound insulation. I didn't go overboard but it's certainly improved the "thud" when the door is closed. I also did under the boot mat as it's quite exposed. Mine has a full sized spare wheel so there's a huge opening to accommodate the wheel. There's still a fair amount of road noise but from what I've read, a lot of that is down the factory spec Michelin PS4 tyres. I will probably change these for the PS4s when they need replacing.
Unfortunately, no pics of the above work so it's just my boring commentary! Nevertheless some more general pics below.
Overall, I'm loving this car. It's an absolute hoot to drive, has just a nice amount of power and torque. It enjoys a good thrashing and the handling is superb.
MTK1919 said:
Composite Guru said:
Good taste in car and colour. Glad you are enjoying it..
Lucky to have bagged a GR86 from new myself. It’s such a fun car to drive. Only wanted white one as I thought it was the best colour.
Thanks :-). Lucky to have bagged a GR86 from new myself. It’s such a fun car to drive. Only wanted white one as I thought it was the best colour.
It's hard not to love this car, it just puts a smile on my face. I just wish I was back in the UK countryside enjoying some proper roads!
Love the black trim on yours
People bang on about these cars not having enough power. What a load of b*llocks. Plenty of go. Too many people fixated on 0 to 60 times and driving fast in a straight line. Not what this car is about. All the 5 star reviews speak volumes.
I thought the back was missing something so fitted the TRD Ducktail. It’s a nice addition. Thought it looked better in black rather than body coloured.
Composite Guru said:
Yes, the backroads are a blast in it.
People bang on about these cars not having enough power. What a load of b*llocks. Plenty of go. Too many people fixated on 0 to 60 times and driving fast in a straight line. Not what this car is about. All the 5 star reviews speak volumes.
I thought the back was missing something so fitted the TRD Ducktail. It’s a nice addition. Thought it looked better in black rather than body coloured.
Plenty quick enough once you wind it up and as mentioned, it's got enough muscle now too. People bang on about these cars not having enough power. What a load of b*llocks. Plenty of go. Too many people fixated on 0 to 60 times and driving fast in a straight line. Not what this car is about. All the 5 star reviews speak volumes.
I thought the back was missing something so fitted the TRD Ducktail. It’s a nice addition. Thought it looked better in black rather than body coloured.
I haven't checked the power to weight stats but I'm sure it's fairly modest.
Anyway, if you want straight line thrills get an ev and we'll pass you on the twisties!
Well, it's only May and we’ve already hit 49°C during the school pickup yesterday, even after 12 years, that kind of heat still takes me by surprise. Thank goodness for great car AC!
Today, the car was in desperate need of a wash. You'd not think it being white (it almost passed as spotless! Nevertheless it gave me the perfect opportunity to try out the new Kärcher K2 Battery Set:
https://www.kaercher.com/int/home-garden/pressure-...
Yes, the battery-powered version , a somewhat controversial choice, I know. But both cars are ceramic coated, so I don’t need extreme pressure, and honestly, I can’t stand being tethered to both a power cord and a hose. This setup makes things a little more convenient and I could use a bucket of water if I wanted to be wire / hose free.
The Kärcher has been great so far. I paired it with a quick charger, and with a 20-minute runtime, it’s more than enough for a proper wash. After a pre-rinse, snow foam, and final rinse, I still had over 50% battery left. At 110 bar, it delivers plenty of pressure for my needs.
All in all, a solid option for quick, hassle-free washes. Highly recommended!
Today, the car was in desperate need of a wash. You'd not think it being white (it almost passed as spotless! Nevertheless it gave me the perfect opportunity to try out the new Kärcher K2 Battery Set:
https://www.kaercher.com/int/home-garden/pressure-...
Yes, the battery-powered version , a somewhat controversial choice, I know. But both cars are ceramic coated, so I don’t need extreme pressure, and honestly, I can’t stand being tethered to both a power cord and a hose. This setup makes things a little more convenient and I could use a bucket of water if I wanted to be wire / hose free.
The Kärcher has been great so far. I paired it with a quick charger, and with a 20-minute runtime, it’s more than enough for a proper wash. After a pre-rinse, snow foam, and final rinse, I still had over 50% battery left. At 110 bar, it delivers plenty of pressure for my needs.
All in all, a solid option for quick, hassle-free washes. Highly recommended!
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