Subaru unveils new BRZ

It’s very much an evolution of the critically-acclaimed formula. Slight – suspiciously, almost identical – dimensions, front-engined, six-speed manual (with an option six-speed auto), limited-slip-equipped rear-wheel-drive and skinny 215 section tyres. Judging by the way Scott Speed is driving it in the video, the old formula looks like it results in old-school fun, too.

There remain four cylinders in a boxer configuration under the bonnet, frustratingly for some, still without a turbocharger. A complaint levied often at the BRZ/GT86 twins is that they don’t have quite enough puff to really bring them to life. The new engine does grow to 2.4-litres and 228PS, though. Crucially, torque swells too, to 249Nm, up from 205Nm. Will that be enough? We’ll have to see. The new car is only slightly heavier, gaining 7kg at the curb.

Interestingly, the engine is roughly the same as the turbocharged unit in the American market Subaru Ascent, minus of course the turbo. That could mean an easy future application for a turbo, either with hotter variants from within GR or Subaru, or from the aftermarket. In theory, the base engine should be ready-built for it.

Underneath there are some interesting changes. Front torsional rigidity is up 60 per cent and is a headline for a jump in stiffness throughout the car. Contrast to the original GT86, which famously was set up to be quite loose for an adjustable back-to-basics feel. If stiffer means snappier, fear not. There’s a new five-way stability control system to dial out the danger. Think Ferrari side slip control on a budget and yes, you can turn it all the way off.

Styling-wise, while the profile is near-identical, albeit with swollen sills and vents, the front and rear are significantly more modern. On the inside, a much-needed freshen-up has taken place, though it’s not exactly an exciting interior design. There’s a new digital instrument cluster and an Apple CarPlay/Android Auto-compatible eight-inch infotainment screen. The seats look sporty but again, quite familiar, as does the steering wheel.

So that’s the new BRZ. A back-to-basics driver’s car it remains but with 2020 styling and interior sensibilities. Who would have thought a naturally-aspirated, rear-drive manual sportscar would be revealed on the same day as the British Government’s new plans to ban the sale of petrol and diesel-powered cars by 2030? We take the rough with the smooth. The new Toyota GR86 had better hurry up and get here.