Subaru confirms BRZ's UK specification and new 'track day' version

There has been a tremendous amount of interest in Subaru’s new BRZ – sister car to Toyota’s GT 86 – but whilst Toyota announced the price and specification of it’s 2+2 coupe several months ago, we’re still waiting for the like-for-like comparison that will enable customers to decide whether they opt for a Subyota or Toybaru.

The Japanese brand has now revealed that top-specification models come with 17-inch alloy wheels, a torque-sensing LSD, front, side, curtain and knee airbags, MP3 connectivity, dual-zone climate control and LED daytime running lights. The driver-focussed BRZ will also come with Subaru’s VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) and can be fitted with either a six-speed short-shift manual or paddle-operated automatic transmission.

Subaru also confirmed this morning that a second, lower-spec model will also be made available later in the year, plus a third ‘stripped out’ version, which promises to be the perfect solution for those who wish to tune and fettle the BRZ to their own tastes, as well as track-day enthusiasts.

Powered by the same 197 bhp 2.0-litre Boxer engine as the GT 86, Subaru’s new sports coupe promises a power-to-weight ratio of 162 bhp per tonne.

The BRZ is available in six eye-catching colours all of which suit the car perfectly, including Subaru’s trademark WR Blue Mica, Sterling Silver, Satin White, Crystal Black Silica, Dark Grey Metallic and San Remo Red.

With deliveries expected from summer 2012, the BRZ will eventually have to stand comparison with its Japanese stablemate. But with Toyota’s part ownership of the company, I suspect they’ve already ensured that it won’t undercut the £24,995 GT 86.