Subaru has created an affordable, fun, rear-wheel-drive sports car and you know it by the three letters BRZ. Sure, a number of folks would like a lot more power from the thing, but that’s not coming just yet.
For 2017, Subaru has updated a bit of the styling but they’ve also revised the suspension, relaxed the traction control, and are now offering an upgrade called the Performance Package.
Check that box on the order form and you’ll get Sachs dampers, an aluminum rear spoiler, and larger brakes.
Is it worth your money? We trekked all the way to a gorgeous racing circuit in Spain to find out.
[Disclaimer: Subaru put me on a long flight to Spain where there was a great hotel, amazing food, mediocre beer, and delicious wine. Also, we got a tour of the Alhambra, which is a must-visit spot on this planet.]
First Drive: 2017 Subaru BRZ Performance Package on the track
By Jeff Glucker
Feb 14, 2017
By Jeff Glucker
Jeff Glucker is the co-founder and Executive Editor of Hooniverse.com. He’s often seen getting passed as he hustles a 1991 Mitsubishi Montero up the 405 Freeway. IG: @HooniverseJeff
Oh, no helmets on track!?
How liberating!
It was nice actually… and I believe that given the right track, right car, and right conditions that’s totally acceptable.
The BRZ won’t hit crazy speeds. There’s good runoff in the corners. We’re not racing or passing. The car has belts and airbags.
It was great.
I agree with what Glucker just said, on all fronts.
is it me, or do those cars have Illinois plates
What track was that? Estoril?
I have a 2016 hyperblue edition, I also purchased a 2016 GTI autobahn, both 6 speeds, while the BRZ may handle just a touch better, the GTI is quicker , more horsepower, torque and better fuel economy.
Not quite a apple to apple comparison but essentially in the same price range.The BRZ pales in comparison to the GTI in fit and finish and technology and the interior feels cheap in comparison, I like the BRZ but the GTI is the better overall vehicle.