Subaru BRZ 2022: stripped-out, roll cage-equipped coupe ready to go racing for Japanese customers

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Subaru has unveiled a stripped-out version of its new-generation BRZ coupe designed specifically for its one-make racing series. 

Currently on sale in Japan with a price of YEN: 3,035,000 (AUD $36,750), the base BRZ is designed to compete alongside its Toyota-badged twin in the Toyota Gazoo Racing GR86 / BRZ Cup.

While any BRZ is already a straight-out-of-the-box track day weapon, the new ‘Cup Car Basic’ version has been outfitted with similar mechanical and safety upgrades to the GR86 RC – all of which are necessary for competitive racing.

These include an air-cooled engine oil cooler and a new rear differential case that features fins for additional heat dissipation.

Subaru has removed unnecessary weight like the curtain airbags while adding factory mounting points for a six-point harness seatbelt for the driver, though the stock BRZ seats are retained.

With the race series attracting newcomers to professional motorsport, it mandates a six-point roll cage to protect the driver in the event of an accident.

Buyers can option the BRZ Cup Car Basic in seven different colours including WR Blue, Ignition Red, Blue Pearl, White Pearl and Silver Metallic. 

Available only with a six-speed manual transmission, the BRZ is paired with the same 2.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine as the rest of the range. 

Subaru has not confirmed the outputs of the BRZ Cup Car Basic but it’s likely to produce the same 174kW of power and 250Nm of torque as the regular model in order to keep costs low.

While the model in question is designed for the Japanese one-make race series, it’s likely that we’ll see a similar version sold by Toyota for the Australian TGRA 86 Series.

Subaru BRZ 2022: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• BRZ Coupe manual: $38,990
• BRZ Coupe auto: $42,790
• BRZ Coupe S manual: $40,190
• BRZ Coupe S auto: $43,990