Subaru has finally answered calls for a more powerful BRZ, but with a twist: the upgraded model is designed exclusively for rally competition. Fans have long desired a high-performance, turbocharged version of the BRZ, and Subaru has delivered—though not in the form most expected. Instead of a road-legal STI variant, the company has unveiled a purpose-built rally car with all-wheel drive developed for the All Japan Rally Championship.
Rally-Focused Design
The new BRZ features significant modifications for off-road performance. These include increased ground clearance, flared wheel arches, and a prominent fixed rear wing. Aggressive styling cues such as a hood scoop, revised front bumper with a larger grille, and a vented hood further differentiate it from the standard model. Subaru’s teaser images also suggest a potential livery inspired by its iconic World Rally Blue color scheme.
Power and Performance
Subaru has confirmed the rally car will utilize a turbocharged engine paired with an all-wheel drive system. This marks a substantial departure from the rear-wheel drive configuration of the road-going BRZ. The choice to adapt an AWD setup from existing Subaru models, such as the WRX, makes financial sense by minimizing R&D expenses. The HyPerfX2 racing hatchback, which shares components with the WRX, exemplifies this strategy.
Championship Entry
The BRZ rally car is slated to compete in the All Japan Rally Championship starting mid-season, with veteran driver Toshihiro Arai at the helm. Subaru’s newly formed Sports Vehicle Planning Office, launching on April 1, spearheaded this project.
While Subaru hasn’t hinted at a roadgoing version, the development of this high-performance rally car demonstrates the brand’s commitment to pushing the BRZ platform further. The question remains whether these upgrades will ever trickle down to a consumer model.
