Say hello to track-ready Subaru BRZ Cup Car Basic

KUALA LUMPUR: Subaru rolled out an all-new track-ready version of the BRZ in the home market, dubbed as the “BRZ Cup Car Basic.” Tuned by STi, the new model gives the drivers a chance to participate in a one-make racing series to be held in Japan this year. The first round of the series will be held in July at the Fuji Speedway.

In comparison to the standard model, the comes with a few modifications that make it suitable for the track. It offers better reliability while lapping a racing circuit.

Speaking about the modifications, the exterior of the car is largely untouched with black-finished 16-inch steel wheels in place of the regular alloys. The available exterior paint options include - WR blue pearl, Ignition Red, Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver metallic, Sapphire blue pearl, Magnetite gray metallic, and Crystal black silica.

However, inside there are some big transformations like adding a six-point roll cage with protective bars for extra side protection, a six-point seatbelt for the driver’s seat, and different floor mats with cutouts. The side curtain airbags have been removed.

Under the hood of the new Subaru BRZ Cup Car Basic lies the same tried and tested 2.4-litre naturally-aspirated flat-four gasoline engine that produces a maximum power output of 235 PS at 7,000 rpm and a peak torque of 250 Nm at 3,700 rpm. It is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox unit sending power to the rear wheels.

While the power comes from the regular engine, the automaker fitted an additional engine oil cooler for more dependability. Also part of the kit is a rear differential cover with additional cooling fins. 

Subaru offers the new BRZ Cup Car Basic at 3,338,500 yen (approximately equal to RM 120,994), including a 10% consumption tax of the country.

Not only the BRZ but also its twin, the Toyota GR86, gets the same Cup Car Basic trim with similar modifications, which is priced a little less at 3,334,000 yen (RM 120,825). 

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