Subaru Introduces Next-Gen BRZ Cup Car with Superior Features

Apr 08, 2024 11:31 PM EDT

YELLOW SUBARU ON THE ROAD — (Photo : PEXELS/ Garvin St. Villier)

Introduced in 2022, the BRZ Cup Car Basic is derived from the second-generation model. Fast forward to 2024, this enthusiast-centric sports coupe receives incremental updates while retaining its attractively affordable price point. Noteworthy in the 2024 iteration is the unexpected addition of Subaru's advanced Eyesight driver-assistance suite, seamlessly integrated alongside its existing array of track-focused enhancements.

2024 Subaru BRZ Cup Car Coming Soon

Crafted for a distinctive dual-make series in Japan involving Toyota and Subaru, the BRZ Cup Car Basic stands out with its minimalist aesthetics and fine-tuned performance enhancements courtesy of the renowned STi division.

According to Motor1.com, the 2024 model gets a new roll cage design but keeps its recognizable 16-inch steel wheels and simple cabin. The vehicle is propelled by the well-known 2.4-liter boxer engine, which produces 250 Nm (184.4 lb-ft) of torque and 232 horsepower (173 kW / 235 PS) in Japan.

This year's notable adjustments include reshaping the sidebar and six-point roll cage.Remarkably, Subaru now equips the BRZ Cup Car Basic with standard EyeSight safety features, a surprising addition for a track-focused vehicle. This move follows Subaru's introduction of EyeSight on the road-going manual gearbox BRZ last year.

In preparation for track performance, the driver's seat in the BRZ Cup Car Basic incorporates eye bolts to secure a six-point harness, while the floor mats are adjusted to accommodate the newly installed roll cage. Enhancing the vehicle's cooling capabilities, Subaru includes an additional engine oil cooler and strategically positions fins to optimize airflow towards the rear differential.

How Much Does It Cost

Priced at around $24,373, the BRZ Cup Car Basic presents a compelling value proposition compared to the entry-level 2024 BRZ that starts at $30,195 in the United States. While these models were closely priced in 2022, the depreciation of the Japanese yen against the American dollar by approximately 18% over recent years has created a more distinct price gap. Furthermore, the cost of the BRZ in the US continues to climb, with the 2024 model year commanding a $1,700 premium over its 2023 counterpart.

As reported by CarScoops, the Cup Car Basic variant of the BRZ has been available since 2022, although it was absent from the Subaru website until the introduction of the 2024 model year updates in September 2023. This shifts today with the introduction of a subtly enhanced model that aligns with the rest of the lineup.

A key enhancement is the inclusion of the Eyesight Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite as a standard feature across the BRZ range, inclusive of the manual transmission models. Additionally, the updated model showcases a redesigned roll cage with a modified shape and side bars, complemented by a 6-point seatbelt for the driver's safety.

The BRZ Cup Car Basic has the recognizable 16-inch black-finished steel wheels that are a hallmark of its predecessor while yet maintaining its unique design. There are still seven color options available for this no-frills sports car: WR Blue Pearl, Sapphire Blue Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Gray Metallic, and Crystal Black Silica are all free of charge.

For those seeking a premium touch, Ignition Red and Crystal White Pearl are offered as additional color choices for an extra fee.