Sneak Peek: Subaru BRZ Concept

The “SUBARU BRZ CONCEPT - STI -” is a concept car based on the “SUBARU BRZ”, an all-new rear-wheel drive (RWD) compact sports car developed from an ongoing joint-project between Subaru and Toyota Motor Corporation.

By making full use of the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer, Subaru’s core technology, this concept car further pursued a "Pure Handling Delight" driving experience that can be realized by the Boxer engine’s low center of gravity. Combined with motifs of Subaru’s iconic performance brand “STI”, the concept car embodies an ultimate handling performance and symbolizes the possibilities the SUBARU BRZ holds for the future.

The Boxer engine has inherent qualities of light weight, compactness, low center of gravity, and high rigidity – all pointing toward its great potential as a sports car engine. Taking full advantage of these features, a 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder direct fuel-injection gasoline engine has been developed exclusively for BRZ.

The engine has been designed with a square bore and stroke of 86 X 86 mm. Combined with Toyota’s D-4S direct injection technology (fuel injection system), high output and high environmental standards
were both attained, both expected of a new generation sports car.

Compared with other Subaru models, the engine in SUBARU BRZ CONCEPT - STI - sits an impressive 120 mm lower and is positioned 240 mm closer to the center of the chassis. As a result, this car has achieved one of the lowest possible center of gravity in cars on the market today.

By incorporating lightweight parts such as a carbon-fiber roof, the overall weight has been reduced. Subaru has also succeeded in attaining a body structure that is both lightweight and highly rigid in a striking balance. The concept car is the embodiment of pure driving enjoyment only obtainable with a “Boxer sports car”.

Its unique handling performance has been remarkably refined by adopting STI’s lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires and STI tuned suspension with excellent lateral stiffness and coupled with the Brembo brakes, enhance braking performance is ensured

Credits: wilswong