The Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ have been quite the popular RWD sports cars in North America, these vehicles use the philosophy of light weight and small engines. I’ve never driven one of these cars but have heard they’re quite fun, even though I’ve never driven one, I still think these cars need a bit more power, 200 horsepower just isn’t enough for a sports car that most people will also use as a daily driver.
Subaru might have something up their sleeve though, with the introduction of the BRZ STI Performance Concept at the New York Auto Show. Although the car is being presented as a concept, maybe Subaru is thinking of finally giving enthusiasts what they’ve been begging for ever since the BRZ was introduced. I’m hoping (I doubt it’ll happen though) the BRZ STI comes with the 2.5 liter boxer 4-cylinder engine from the North American WRX STI or the even the 2.0 liter engine found on the Japanese WRX S4, both producing around 300 horsepower.
The Subaru BRZ STI Performance concept does look pretty good on the outside, featuring new and more aggressive front and rear bumpers with lots of carbon fiber. The rear bumper comes with a diffuser and a pair of center-mounted exhaust tips. The concept also comes with wider fenders and side skirts, pop-out door handles, carbon fiber mirrors, and a very big carbon fiber spoiler. The interior has also been upgraded with carbon fiber trim pieces and bucket seats.
Subaru, if you are reading this, please bring a BRZ STI to our shores with the above mentioned engines. You’ll have a pretty hot seller on your hands and everyone will forget about the Scion FR-S.
Reasonable horsepower is why it’s acceptable as a daily driver, and getting the buying public to rate it as “quite fun” is what has made this car a home run. Finesse exceeds power. Shades of the first generation 240Z and the RX-7, two other huge success stories.
Yes, but a little more horsepower/torque would make it lot more fun. I mean you don’t “daily drive” at 5-6,000 rpm, which is when these cars become incredible fun. I guess I’ll have to find one of these cars and take ’em for a spin.