New rear-wheel drive Subaru BRZ sports car to rely on Michelin handling

Michelin tyres will be the boots of choice for the stunning new Subaru BRZ sports car which is expected to arrive in UK showrooms this summer, carrying a price tag of between £24,995 and £27,995 for the two specification levels – SE and SE Lux.

Powered by a 2.0-litre Boxer engine, the rear-wheel drive sports coupe sits on 17-inch alloys which will come wrapped in Michelin 215/45 R17 tyres.

There will be a choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic with a paddle shift – the latter for an additional £1,500 – while the car also features a state-of-the-art torque-sensing limited slip differential.

Keyless ‘Smart Entry’ provides access to the cabin which enjoys fully automatic, dual zone air-con and a six-speaker audio system with CD, radio and iPod connectivity. Subaru BRZ customers will also be entitled to the manufacturer’s ‘Everything Taken Care Of’ (ETCo) aftercare package which has been pitched as the most comprehensive of any offered in the UK.

In terms of the driving experience, the Subaru BRZ has a low centre of gravity which will complement the superb handling provided by the Michelins. Top speed is a shade over 140mph and fuel consumption is a pleasing 36.2mpg.

“There is huge interest in the Subaru BRZ, heightened by very positive press reviews of the car so far”, said Kenyon Neads, Subaru UK Marketing Director, “Early demand is strong so we fully expect that some early customers will have to wait some months for delivery, especially during 2012, but we have no doubt they will agree it will be worth the wait.”