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A turbocharged all-wheel-drive version of the popular BRZ sports car is destined for Japan's rally stages, but there's no sign of a road version.
Subaru has teased a high-riding version of the BRZ sports car with a turbocharger and all-wheel drive, destined for Japanese rallying competition.
There is no indication the turbo BRZ will be put into production, extending the wait for fans awaiting a high-performance STI variant for road use.
An image posted online by Japanese publication Car Watch shows a computer illustration of a lifted BRZ previewed to media at the opening round of Japan's Super Taikyu racing series, and destined for the All-Japan Rally Championship model.
The rally-based BRZ is one of the first models from the brand's new Sports Vehicle Planning Office, which is set to be formally established in early April.
Notable differences between the rally machine and the road-going BRZ include increased ground clearance, wider front and rear guards, a fixed rear wing, aggressive rally tyres, a bonnet scoop, and a larger grille.
Subaru has not revealed technical details, but Car Watch reports it has confirmed the use of a turbocharged, horizontally-opposed engine.
It is likely a turbo version of the 2.4-litre four-cylinder in the standard BRZ. In the WRX, the turbo engine produces 202kW/350Nm, while in Subaru's new Super Taikyu race car, it develops 268kW and 475Nm, though it may be detuned to meet rally rules.
Given that the GR86 and BRZ are almost-identical twins, it is unknown if it will borrow its all-wheel-drive system from the WRX, or another source.
Car Watch reports the rally-ready BRZ is expected to enter halfway through the current All-Japan Rally Championship, driven by Toshihiro Arai.
It is expected that Subaru will release further details over the coming months.
