Thursday 23rd February 2012

Subaru: Stripped-out BRZ heading for UK

Toyota might be keeping its 'clubsport' version from us, but Subaru isn't...

---

If the prospect of a pared-down £16K GT 86 got you salivating, but frustrated you for not being UK-bound, Subaru might just have the answer: it's set to launch its own stripped-out version of the BRZ coupe.

Initially the BRZ will come in a full-spec version only, with 17-inch alloys, a torque-sensing LSD, front, side, curtain and knee airbags, MP3 connectivity, dual-zone climate control and LED daytime running lights.

Later on in the year, however, it will be joined by a 'lower-spec' model. Best of all, there'll be a third 'stripped-out' version that (and we quote Subaru here) promises to "be the perfect solution for those who wish to tune and fettle the BRZ to their own tastes, as well as track-day enthusiasts". An ideal basis for that Super GT BRZ replica then!

Subaru still hasn't revealed prices for the new car, but from the sound of things it seems as though they might be claiming the 'budget track weapon' ground from Toyota.

On a more pragmatic note, Subaru is also offering the BRZ with its 'Everything Taken Care of' (ETCo) package. This covers a whole host of after-sales stuff for the first three years, including dent and scratch repair, wheel repairs, a monthly wash and vac, a full annual valet, service collection and delivery, and even the car's first MOT.

Sounds almost as appealing as a 200hp, rear-drive, lightweight track car. Almost...

[Face Off]

Stripped out BRZ for less? Yes please

[Alex]

Excellent decision by Subaru.

[AlecG]

Good move, surely Toyota will change their tune?

[Panda Gunman]

Here Subaru, take my money.

[dublet]

I presume this wouldn't cost less than the GT86, would it?

[tomoleeds]

looks a good car for around £16k same price as a base focus.are there more pictures of the interior piston heads?

[davepoth]

AlecG said:

Good move, surely Toyota will change their tune?

If it starts selling well, I'm sure Toyota will follow suit.

[Luke.]

Loving the ECTo package. st, I think I'm getting old.

[NadiR]

Finally one manufacturer who don't charge more for less.

[huwdm]

That is the best new car story I have heard for a long time. I hope it really opens up a new market sector and others follow. I would buy one tomorrow.

[JMF894]

Good news as long as it keeps the slippy diff.................

[tombstone]

All I need is dealer locally and I'm sorted! Sadly Hemming Chichester folded and Sparshatts (should be renamed with a well placed 'i'..) won't get my money as they are a shocking dealer....! Shame, as I'm really up for one!

[Dagnut]

Will it be 16K but?? I doubt it..still good news none the less

[SystemParanoia]

tomoleeds said:

looks a good car for around £16k same price as a base focus.are there more pictures of the interior piston heads?

bloomin ek! when did focii start costing that much?!

[FAST FORDS]

v nice
any one know whats the CO2 going to be, as it would make a enjoyable company car if under our 160 kg limit

[Roman]

I'd like to see old school steel wheels like the base Camero:

[filski666]

Far
King
Awesome!

Gonna be for £18k eh? Subaru? eh? nudge.......

[robcarty]

Make a 250ish hp stripped out version and my money is yours Subaru!

[SC00P]

Great looking car.

But why the photoshop effect on the leadlights? I hate when manufacturers do things like that, making real pictures look more fake.

[PaulB81]

These things are really going to sell well. There hasnt been anything this interesting for a while and with Lotus moving out of the cheap end of the track car, drivers car market (stupid!) these should clean up.