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Subaru announced the 2018 Subaru BRZ gets a few comfort and convenience upgrades over the outgoing model and gets a small increase in price. The Premium trim 6MT starts at $25,595 (+$100), Limited 6MT $28,445 (+$800), and Limited 6AT starts at $29,545 (+$800). Destination and delivery add $860.
No changes were made to the 2018MY BRZ engine and it’s powered by the naturally aspirated 205hp Boxer engine paired with a 6-speed close-ratio manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic transmission. It also gets a Torsen limited-slip differential (optional automatic transmission model has 200 hp).
Subaru has confirmed BRZ will see a second-generation model along with it’s twin, Toyota 86. The remodel will come in 2020 and it will be the next-to-last Subaru model to get the new Subaru Global Platform. It's unlikely fans will get a 2.0-liter boxer turbo in the sports coupe.
What’s new for 2018?
2018 BRZ Premium and Limited trims now include Welcome Lighting which provides better nighttime visibility when approaching or exiting the vehicle; automatic headlight activation when wipers are turned on; and one touch lane changer turn signal. Both manual and automatic models receive a high-grade leather shift handle as standard equipment.
Subaru continues with the BRZ Performance Package ($1,195) available on Limited trims with the manual transmission. The brake system is upgraded to Brembo four-piston calipers and rotors on the front and dual- piston calipers and rotors on the rear. Sachs Performance shock absorbers are added to all four corners for improved ride and corning stability. Also included in the package are unique 17- in x 7.5-in black aluminum alloy wheels.
2018 BRZ tS
Subaru will also release a Limited Edition 2018 BRZ tS (tuned by STI) limited to 500 units. BRZ tS adds STI-tuned front and rear Sachs dampers and coil springs, and flexible V-braces in the engine compartment. New draw stiffeners are added to the chassis and sub-frame to improve steering response.
For the first time, BRZ tS is also equipped with 18-inch lightweight STI wheels wrapped in 215/40 R 18 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 rubber for superior grip and quicker turn-in. Brembo brakes at all four corners round-out the package. BRZ tS is available in Crystal Black, Crystal White, and WR Blue. Pricing will be announced closer to dealer launch in early 2018.
The outgoing 2017 models are still selling well, as Subaru announced November sales of the sports coupe were up 8.9 percent over the previous year’s numbers. The 2018 Subaru BRZ upgrades should give the rear-drive coupe new interest and will arrive in Subaru showrooms in January 2018. Look for Subaru to also release a special 50th Anniversary Edition BRZ Limited model with a unique color and special badging in February, 2018. Stay tuned.
Photo credit: Subaru USA
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