More power, extra tech for 2016 Subaru BRZ

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Subaru has honed the edge of its sharpest weapon, unveiling the most significant update yet for its BRZ Coupe.

The 2016 iteration of Subaru's Toyota 86 twin broke cover in North America overnight, where owners will benefit from a raft of changes to the car.

The model's distinctive 2.0-litre four-cylinder "boxer" engine benefits from an additional 5 horsepower and 5 ft lb of torque – increases that should translate to 4kW and 7Nm gains for Australia's 147kW and 205Nm model.

While many modern upgrades are carried out via laptop, Subaru engineers worked hard for the modest gains by updating the motor's valves, camshafts and cylinder heads as well as its exhaust system.

A more noticeable change is likely to come from a revised limited slip differential in manual models that introduces a shorter 4.3:1 final drive ratio to improve the car's acceleration.

Drivers will be able to put that to work through an updated chassis that includes revised springs and shock absorbers, a bigger rear anti-roll bar, additional body bracing and a more relaxed stability control setup.

American customers have the option of a performance package that turns it up another notch with Brembo brakes, Sachs shock absorbers and lightweight 17-inch wheels to improve the car's track performance.

Following in the footsteps of the facelifted Toyota 86, Subaru's revised model includes cosmetic upgrades ranging from reprofiled bumpers to new LED headlights, taillights and foglights as well as revised wheels and a fresh rear spoiler.

On the inside, a new 4.2-inch digital driver's display in the instrument cluster can show data such as lap times, G-forces and operating temperatures and the car's heating, ventilation and 6.2-inch touchscreen stereo systems have also been revised.

Subaru Australia hasn't revealed exactly what form local models will take when the car arrives later this year, though the success of the 86 and BRZ here is likely to encourage the brand to offer the car with plenty of equipment.

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