American Subaru enthusiasts are in for a treat, as the brand announced today that a “sharper and more focused” BRZ will drop on July 23. The model will be unveiled at Subiefest in Arcadia, California.
Subaru has not revealed many details about the model, but its choice of wording suggests that it will be more than simply a trim package like the 10th anniversary model that was recently made to celebrate the milestone in Japan. Instead, the automaker’s wording suggests that the model will actually introduce performance upgrades.
There’s no shortage of rumors relating to the BRZ and its twin, the Toyota GR86. In October, reports indicated that Toyota was testing a version of the model with the 300 hp (224 kW/304 PS) 1.6-liter engine from the GR Corolla.
Read: Toyota Is Testing GR86 Coupes Fitted With The GR Corolla’s 300-HP Turbo Motor
However, there was no indication that Subaru was involved in those tests, and Toyota is now reportedly working on its own hybrid version of the sports car that it will sell exclusively. That suggests that the differences between these models will only continue to grow.
On the less extreme end of the spectrum, Japanese models are offered with a variety of “STI” branded optional extras, including a performance muffler. In its highest-performance trim, the Japanese model is also available with 232 hp (173 kW/235 PS), an increase over the U.S.-spec model’s 205 hp (153 kW/208 PS), all of which would likely be welcome additions for American consumers.
Unfortunately, we just don’t know what Subaru has planned for us yet, but you can check back in with us on July 23 for everything you need to know about the new model. Subiefest was founded in 2006 and is one of the world’s biggest Subaru events on earth. It features a car show, autocross, games, activities, and more.
