My FH5 Log: Legacy Runs Deep

As we both say goodbye to the Forza series and the Subaru Legacy this year, it's time for one last drive with the first-generation Subaru Legacy sedan and see how much it can learn from the last surviving Subaru sedan, the Subaru WRX S4 VBH.

Subaru has an impressive resume of 4WD saloons that boldly go where no sedan has gone before, such as the Leone, Legacy, Impreza, and WRX. Sadly, the signs of the times favored the crossover market and as the once-dominant sedan race is diminishing rapidly to the point of extinction, Subaru's not spared from it, leaving the VB-spec Subaru WRX S4 the last remaining sedan in the range.

To review, the second-generation Subaru WRX S4 was unveiled in 2021, marking the first use of the Subaru Global Platform in its two-decade history. This new platform enhances safety, improves handling dynamics, and reduces noise, vibration, and harshness. The same platform is also used in the second-generation Levorg, the estate version of the WRX.

The updated model features a flat-four boxer turbo engine that has increased in size from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L. It produces 275 PS and 375 Nm of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with the newly developed Subaru Performance Transmission, a sport-tuned continuously variable transmission (CVT) that offers an 8-speed manual mode. It provides 30% faster upshifts and 50% faster downshifts compared to the previous WRX S4's Sport Lineartronic CVT. The one featured in Forza Horizon 5 is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, which is offered only in overseas markets. 

A race-spec WRX S4 achieved a significant milestone by winning the SP4T class at the 2024 ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring, marking the first victory for this VB model in its second appearance at the Nürburgring.

The first-generation Subaru Legacy, meanwhile, achieved significant success in rallying, including Patrik Njiru's victory in the Group N class at the 1990 Safari Rally. In 1993, it secured a one-two finish at the first leg of the Acropolis Rally, and it won the eighth round of Rally New Zealand with the late Colin McRae at the wheel. 

The first generation Subaru Legacy was launched in Japan in February 1989 and was offered in several variants, including the 220 PS (162 kW) DOHC 2.0-liter turbocharged "RS" model, which was available exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission.

So, how much does Subaru's current Nurburgring hero learn from the grand old dad of JDM rally legends? Using the top of the caldera as our arena, the two Subaru sedans from distant generations will dish each other with a one-lap time attack. These cars aren't afraid to get dirty. Would you? Anyway, let's roll the tape.

And now, the results...

Legacy (BC) - 1m06.333s

WRX (VB) - 58.876s

I guess Subaru's rallying heritage still remained even in this mediocre S4. Drivers like Travis Pastrana and Lia Block gave the WRX S4 a fighting chance in the ARA while others used the WRX S4 for track purposes from the Nurburgring to Super Taikyu. I can't blame them.

The Subaru Legacy's story is finished and this first-generation Legacy is a clear reminder of progression not just for the Legacy nameplate but also for Subaru. It helped Subaru cement its status in the world of rallying and became the cornerstone of grand touring pleasure. Some of the attributes have been carried over to today's WRX, although it's not fully developed to do things its ancestors have done. Too soon, junior. You have a lot to learn from the best.

EPILOGUE

The Subaru WRX S4 VB may have been an average 4WD saloon that ended up becoming the last remaining Subie saloon, but because this is Forza Horizon 5, I have interesting opportunities for the WRX S4 to discover. 

The car is perhaps not as famous as something like the Aston Martin Vantage, but the WRX S4 can still do its job well in this game, and I'm interested to see how far I can take it. The WRX S4's ability to go off-road makes me curious about how it will fare in the mountains, which should be a fun place to drive. Perhaps this car may be interested in this, too?

Sigh. I gave the S4 a choice, and it went for the other. It wants to be that Liella girl, Kinako Sakurakoji. Fine, have it your way. I shall now call you Kinako.

But hey, on the plus side, I’ve managed to make some revisions underneath so that now this car behaves as if the Subaru Performance Transmission is set to its 8-speed manual mode. I even gave it the looks to imitate the STi S210 in my mind, a special version of the WRX S4 that’s a road-going version of the race car that won the Nurburgring 24-hour race in its class. It has a 30-PS power hike, but it’s only mated with the Subaru Performance Transmission.

With the looks of the STi S210 and the mentality of Kinako Sakurakoji, my WRX S4 is battling against two racers in their juiced-up cars in an EventLab scenario in an industrial district. Typical street racing vibes but is the WRX S4 up for this challenge? Let's find out.

Although battered and bent after that "grand slam", it managed to survive and win this EventLab situation. Well done, Kinako-chan. You know what they say "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog". Man, I'm going to miss playing those cool EventLab scenarios.

The Subaru WRX S4 may be the last remaining Subaru sedan on sale today but rest assured that its legacy of creating all-weather, all-capable, 4WD saloons will never be forgotten. 

From the WRC to the Nürburgring, on or off the road, tarmac, gravel, or snow, this represents world-class quality done right. This is... SUBARU 4WD.

A quick history of the Subaru Legacy

After over three and a half decades on the road, Subaru will bid goodbye to the Legacy at the end of March 2025. Although it's a painful thing to do, the Legacy has served its purpose after seven generations not just in Japan but across the globe.

2025 Subaru Legacy Outback Black Selection

As the world braces for the end of the Subaru Legacy, it's time for a quick history with Subaru's grand touring sensation from the BC/BF first-generation model to the final-generation BT5.

First Generation (1989-1993) - The first generation of the Subaru Legacy was launched in Japan in February 1989 and was offered in several variants. These included the 220 PS (162 kW) DOHC 2.0-liter turbocharged "RS" model, which was available exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission. Additionally, there were the "VZ" sedan and wagon, as well as the "TZ" sedan and wagon, both equipped with a 150 PS (110 kW) DOHC 2.0-liter engine. A smaller 102 PS (75 kW) SOHC 1.8-liter engine powered the "Vi" sedan and wagon, which were front-wheel drive only, along with the "Ti" sedan and wagon, the "Mi," and the entry-level "Ei" sedans and wagons.

In terms of motorsport involvement, the Subaru Legacy achieved significant success, including Patrik Njiru's victory in the Group N class at the 1990 Safari Rally. In 1993, it secured a one-two finish at the first leg of the Acropolis Rally, and it won the eighth round of Rally New Zealand with the late Colin McRae at the wheel.

Second Generation (1993-1998) - The second-generation Subaru Legacy featured a rounder shape compared to its predecessor, courtesy of styling by Oliver Boulay. It was offered with the choice of the Touring Wagon, the 4-door Touring Sports, and the SUV-oriented Grand Wagon. The 1996 facelift features a much cleaner design and sports a powerful new variant with the EJ20R turbo engine producing 280PS of power. The Grand Wagon was renamed Lancaster in the 1997 model.

Third Generation (1998-2003) - Launched in 1998, the third-generation Legacy features a much squarish design compared to the previous model while donning similar taillights from its predecessor. It's available in a choice of a Touring Wagon, the Lancaster, and the B4 sedan. In addition to the selection of a 2.0L or 2.5L boxer petrol engine, the Lancaster is the first Japanese car to be powered by a 3.0L boxer-six engine. This engine became so popular, that it was even added to the Touring Wagon and the B4 after the 2001 minor change.

Fourth Generation (2003-2009) - The fourth-generation Legacy sports a sharper exterior design in contrast to its predecessors. It is available in a choice of a Touring Wagon or B4, powered by a choice of a 2.0L boxer-4 (with available turbo) and a 3.0L boxer-6 engine. The Lancaster model was replaced by the Outback, marking the marque's Japan debut having been applied to foreign-model predecessors since the second and third generations. The 2005 facelift marked the debut of Subaru's SI-DRIVE while later updates feature the first-generation Subaru Eyesight system with front cameras detecting moving objects.

Fifth Generation (2009-2014) - The fifth-generation Legacy was launched in 2009 to commemorate the Legacy range's 20th anniversary. With styling inspired by the concept car from the 2009 NAIAS, the fifth-generation Legacy is offered with the choice of the Touring Wagon, the B4, and the Outback. All models are fitted with Subaru's Lineartronic CVT for better fuel economy while the 2.5GT models are mated to either a 5-speed AT or a 6-speed MT. The Outback still uses the EZ36 3.6L boxer-six engine.

The 2013 Subaru Legacy's minor model change comes with the new FA20 Direct Injection Turbo (DIT) engine. Sadly, the 6-speed manual is gone for this model year. The Touring Wagon (BR9), Legacy B4 (BM9), and Outback have engine choices of the FA20 DIT, the old EJ25, or a new FB25. The Outback also has the option of the old EZ36 engine. Depending on the model, there are a couple of transmission options. Touring Wagon, Outback, and B4 models equipped with the FB25 are mated with the second-generation Lineartronic CVT that comes with a 6-speed manual mode. Outback models with the EZ36, and models with the old EJ25, have a 5-speed automatic transmission. Touring Wagon and B4 models equipped with the new FA20 DIT engine have a new Lineartronic CVT with a 6-speed manual mode.

Sixth Generation (2014-2021) - 2014 marked the Legacy's 25th anniversary and the arrival of the sixth generation. Only the B4 sedan and the Outback were available for purchase. The Touring Wagon was no longer available, as it had been replaced by the Levorg. The only engine choice was the updated version of the FB25 Boxer, which came with Lineartronic CVT. Both models featured EyeSight ver. 3, which had adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision warning/prevention.

Seventh Generation (2021-2025) - The seventh and final generation of the Subaru Legacy is the Outback. With styling that is similar to its predecessor, it's no wonder that some enthusiasts find this new model to be the successor to their beloved legacy, or at least an appropriate follow-up to its six previous generations. In keeping with the model's tradition, this final generation offers many tech-savvy features on the interior, as well as under the hood. The previous 2.5L boxer-four petrol engine has been replaced with a CB18 1.8L DOHC DIT engine. This setup features a LINEARTRONIC CVT with an 8-speed manual mode, achieving modest fuel economy for the power it generates. This engine also boosts both the horsepower and torque in comparison to the Legacy's sixth-generation model. Perhaps the Outback's best feature is that it was redesigned and rebuilt using the Subaru Global Platform, improving the car's handling and making it stiffer.

Subaru announced that it will end production of the Legacy at the end of March 2025. To commemorate this, Subaru has unveiled a send-off limited edition model called the Subaru Legacy Outback Black Selection. This special model commemorates not only the 30th anniversary of the Subaru Outback but also the end of the Subaru Legacy. It features a blackened front grille, badges, 18-inch wheels, roof rails, and bumpers.

For seven generations, the Subaru Legacy has been the epitome of grand touring for all walks of life. Whether it's on tarmac, gravel, or snow, the Legacy is every journeyman's responsible partner that allows them to chart through uncharted paths. Now that the Legacy's story is finished, its memories will live on forever. As they said, legacy runs deep.

Thanks, Legacy.

Subaru Crosstrek (GU) S:HEV

A first for Subaru, the series-parallel hybrid system has arrived, with the Crosstrek being the first car to utilize a strong hybrid powertrain.

2025 Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV

Starting at 3,833,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the first-ever Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV features all of the similar nooks and crannies as you get from the regular mild-hybrid model, but it dons a different e-BOXER badging with black letterings instead of blue to show the world that this is the full hybrid model, not the MHEV one.

The Crosstrek S:HEV features a 160PS 2.5L FB25 DOHC 4-cylinder engine, paired with two electric motors sourced from its ally carmaker Toyota and a 1.1kWh lithium-ion battery. This powertrain is mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT), a front differential gear, and an electronically-controlled coupling. According to WLTC Mode standards, the fuel economy is rated at 22.7 km/L, lower than its main competitor, the Toyota Corolla Cross, equipped with a 1.8L hybrid engine and e-4WD.

Subaru says that the S:HEV powertrain can cover 1000km of driving range, which is the distance from Sapporo to Fukuoka. This means you could drive from one end of the country to the other without stopping for fuel. That makes it a great choice for a Japanese road trip. Get your cameras ready.

The Crosstrek S:HEV comes standard with Subaru's signature AWD system with X-MODE, allowing you to travel through tarmac, gravel, and snow like a true Subaru should. With the Subaru Global Platform, front struts, rear double wishbones, ventilated disc brakes, and Rack and Pinion steering, driving the Crosstrek is almost no drama.

It also features an updated EyeSight system featuring a wide-angle mono camera working in tandem with the existing stereo camera, making it capable of detecting moving objects to make use of its pre-crash brake and other ADAS offered.

Whether you love it, like it, or not, the Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV marks the beginning of Subaru's electrification strategy. If the Solterra doesn't interest you, the Crosstrek S:HEV could be the ideal alternative. This should be clear to you.

Available Colors: Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Pure Red, Sapphire Blue Pearl, Oasis Blue, and Offshore Blue Metallic.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

My FH5 Log: 500 miles a day

The Subaru Alcyone SVX is the final prize car of Forza Horizon 5's Back to the 90s update and it's obtainable in this update's Spring Season Playlist. Now that I have one, it's time to get to know the last Alcyone ever made.

Introduced in 1991, the Alcyone SVX stands as Subaru's flagship grand tourer coupe, famously advertised with the slogan "500 miles a day." This remarkable vehicle combines striking Giugiaro-inspired styling with an eye-catching glass-to-glass round canopy, making it a true head-turner.

Under the hood, the Alcyone SVX boasts a robust water-cooled 3.3L boxer-six engine, featuring Subaru's pioneering variable torque distribution electronically controlled four-wheel drive (VTD-4WD). With an impressive output of 230HP and 228 lb-ft of torque, it pairs exclusively with a smooth 4-speed automatic transmission. The strut suspension on both the front and rear wheels, combined with ventilated disc brakes, ensures an exhilarating driving experience.

Despite its substantial weight, the SVX embodies the essence of a luxury grand tourer, delivering unparalleled comfort and responsive handling tailored for those long, enjoyable journeys ahead. Experience the legacy of the Alcyone SVX; it’s more than just a car—it’s a statement of performance and style.

With its introduction done, it's time to give the last prize car of the decade a challenging duel against a top driver in a certain EventLab creation made by a player named "VeIxity". Let's roll the tape.

Well, it may be a performance flop because it's only mated with a 4-speed AT but the SVX is nostalgia shaken and stirred.

And that’s it for Forza Horizon 5’s Back to the 90s. What a way to revisit our childhood memories the Forza way. And with the next update imminent, let’s hope the prize cars will be better than these.

Subaru Chiffon Try

Remember the Daihatsu FunCross two years ago? Guess what, Subaru borrowed one for their own version of the said kei car. Called the Chiffon Try, it's for those who want a Daihatsu Tanto FunCross but their nearest dealership is Subaru's. Not bad.

2025 Subaru Chiffon Try

With prices starting at 1,831,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the Tanto FunCross is the rugged version of the current-generation Chiffon that features a rugged exterior with a tough front face and black claddings on the side and back. Although rugged, observers still consider it "cute", just like the rest of the Chiffon family.

On the interior, the Try's seats feature a camouflage design and some orange panelings that are in sync with its rugged design. Although they're somewhat show-off, their signature traits are still in this model; the signature pillarless door on the passenger side, space for four people, various seating arrangements, and various compartments to store your stuff, among many others. Word of advice, though, there are USB-C ports involved in this car so you better bring the right plug while on the go.

Like today's Chiffon range, the Chiffon Try runs on the DNGA architecture. Along with the rack-and-pinion steering, front MacPherson Strut suspension, ventilated disc front brakes, and leading trailing rear brakes, not to mention the torsion beams for FF models and 3-link rear suspension for 4WD models, the Try behaves pretty much like a Chiffon despite its rugged looks, as expected. Although made for the great outdoors, it's still a city car that fits well with the Tokyo traffic.

Under the hood, the Try runs on the KF 660cc 3-cylinder DOHC 12V EFI engine. Mated to a D-CVT, the fuel economy is up to 21.9km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

Like most Chiffon models, the Try features Smart Assist, a suite of active safety features ranging from collision avoidance, detection, driving load reduction, and parking. It even comes with full LED headlamps, VSC, TRC, CTA, emergency stop signal, ABS, TAF body, SRS airbag, and ISOFIX.

So, if you want a Daihatsu Tanto FunCross but your nearest dealership is a Subaru dealership, the Chiffon Try is for you.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

My FH5 Log: WRX S4

The Subaru WRX S4 VB made its way on Forza Horizon 5 as a prize car in the Hidden Horizons Storm Season Playlist and this is the only desirable car of the update packed with nothing but undesirable old cars plaguing around Horizon Mexico grounds like disease-carrying rodents.

So, what's it all about the VB WRX S4?

A rally legend two decades in the making, the second-generation Subaru WRX S4 was unveiled in 2021 and it now runs on the Subaru Global Platform for the first time in its two-decade history, which offers increased safety, improved dynamics, and reductions in noise, vibration, and harshness. It's the same platform used in its estate equivalent, the Levorg, currently in its second generation.

The new model's flat-four boxer turbo engine's size has been increased from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L. It produces 275PS and 375Nm of torque. It is mated exclusively with the newly-developed Subaru Performance Transmission, a sport-tuned CVT with an 8-speed manual mode that delivers 30% faster upshifts and 50% faster downshifts compared to the previous WRX S4's Sport Lineartronic CVT.

It boasts high levels of safety thanks to its EyeSight driver assistance with Lane Centering Function and Speed Sign Recognition, among many others.

Recently, a race-spec WRX S4 won the SP4T class in the 2024 ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nurburgring, a first in the VB model's second outing at the Nurburgring.

The one featured in Forza Horizon 5 is different from the WRX S4 as I know it. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, which is offered only in overseas markets. This is the kind of gearbox that Japanese Subarists are missing out on. With the WRX STi officially discontinued before the year of COVID, the call for a manual-mated WRX S4 from Japanese Subarists has never been louder, although Subaru has declined to comment.

Consumer Reports, infamous for calling American cars terrible, recommended the WRX S4 VB because “Its 59 mph speed through our avoidance maneuver (…) puts the four-door WRX firmly in high-level sports-car territory, matching the speed of the Porsche 718 Boxster, for example.”

Unfortunately, this is Forza Horizon 5, and I can't find a way to demonstrate the WRX S4's capabilities until some luxury four-door saloon is accepted to be its sparring partner.

The all-electric BMW i4, in eDrive40 trim, has been rejoined by the WRX S4. The WRX S4 is confident that it can compete with a luxury German saloon. The i4 may pack more power than the S4, the WRX S4, but because the electric drivetrain is darn bulky, the old-school Nurburgring hero from Gunma has a fighting chance.

With Horizon Mexico's shortest track becoming my laboratory, it's time to find out if Japan's own S4 can take down Germany's own i4. Let's roll the tape.

Here are the results:

i4 - 1m03.080s

WRX S4 - 1m01.812s

The WRX S4 beat the all-electric i4 eDrive40 by over two seconds. That's impressive, considering the i4 has more power and is twice as expensive. The future is bright for the WRX S4!

The Subaru WRX S4 is the only desirable car in an update filled with undesirable old cars. Although it's not as good as its predecessors, my experience with the current-generation WRX S4 in the game makes me want to drive it some more.

From rallying to Nurburgring survival, there are plenty of reasons to love the WRX S4 but there's one greater reason to love this car; it's a Subaru.

Case Closed. Welcome to your new WRX S4, FH5 Subarists.

My FH5 Log: Scene Stealer!

When the Toyota GR86 and the second-generation Subaru BRZ were launched in 2021, they were expected to be the stars of the show. However, the Japanese arrival of the Chevrolet Corvette C8 stole their thunder and went on to win Japan's Performance Car of the Year award. Why?

That's an interesting but silly question. Why did the C8 Corvette win the award that was supposed to be for the second-generation ToyoBaru twin coupes? Before that, let's have a quick re-introduction of these cars.

The Toyota GR86 and the second-generation Subaru BRZ were unveiled in 2021. They are built on an improved version of the signature platform, with upgraded suspension and chassis for better cornering and traction. The flat-4 engine has been increased from 2.0L to 2.4L, resulting in more horsepower and torque.

The eighth-generation Corvette is no longer the Corvette the world knows. For the first time in its history, it's been morphed into a mid-engined supercar, a move that displeased most Corvette purists. Being the first production mid-engined car from General Motors, the C8 Corvette is powered by an all-new 6.2L LT2 V8 engine with 495HP of power and 470lb-ft of torque. Mated to a Corvette-first 8-speed Double Clutch Gearbox, it does 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds and flat-out in 312kph. It features a brand-new Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 which reads the road every millisecond and adapts in about 10 to 15 milliseconds, as well as double wishbone suspension with height adjustable capability.

The Chevrolet C8 Corvette defeated the second-generation Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 to become the 2021-2022 Japan Performance Car of the Year, the first for an American-made car to win the title.

With Horizon Mexico's smallest circuit track set in the town of Guanajuato becoming my laboratory, the second-generation ToyoBaru coupe twins joined forces to battle against the C8 Corvette. The question is, will they beat the mid-engined American monster machine? Let's roll the tape.

And here are the results...

BRZ ZD8 - 1m00.077s

GR86 - 59.526s

C8 Corvette - 55.005s

The C8 Corvette massively defeated the second-generation ToyoBaru twin coupes with such margins. It's no wonder the Japanese motoring press turned their faces away from them in favor of the Corvette.

Despite being defeated by the Chevrolet C8 Corvette in the title of 2021 Japan's Performance Car of the Year Award, both the GR86 and the BRZ are still one of the best sports cars of the early 2020s because of their affordability, accessible dynamics, and limitless tuning possibilities to turn these reasonably fast cars around. Speaking of which, it's time to reward the ToyoBaru twins for the hard work they've done today. In the spirit of Let's ¡Go!, how about a little Making Drama to spice things up? But first...

The GR86, for the first time in Horizon Mexico, is donning the role of Himitsu no AiPri's main character, Himari Aozora. Suits her personality. As for the BRZ...

My BRZ is donning the role of Himitsu no AiPri's other main character, Mitsuki Hosihkawa. When you look at them, they remind you of the two heroines from "Himitsu no AiPri" who are known for their idol activities across the metaverse. Today is "AiPriVerse Day!"

With the ToyoBaru twins versed in, the GR86 will battle against the competition in a neon-packed EventLab creation called "Neon City Race". At the same time, the BRZ takes on what's known to be an EventLab re-enactment of Malaysia's Genting Highlands, where the mountain roads evoke the drivers' Initial D fantasies. As MC AIMU would say, "AiPriVerse Day!"

Who performed better? Himari or Mitsuki?

The GR86 and BRZ are the fruits of the wonderful collaboration between Toyota and Subaru. These two cars are fit to take on the bold challenges of the Reiwa era. These cars may not live forever in the age of electrification, but the 86 and the BRZ have created an impressive legacy that will be remembered forever for many generations.

Together they stand, united they fall.

My FH5 Log: BRZ-bub

Remember the Toyota GR86 back in the Forza Horizon 5 Summer Party? Guess what? Its Subaru BRZ equivalent made its way into the game during the Winter Wonderland update and things wouldn't get even more complicated than this.

Obtained as a prize car in Week 3 of the Forza Horizon 5 Winter Wonderland series update, the second-generation Subaru BRZ completes the Reiwa-era ToyoBaru coupe twins, giving players plenty of time to debate. I know the GR86 and the BRZ are built in the same factory, but truth be told, the BRZ is slightly older than the GR86. No need for the chicken and egg debate.

The Subaru BRZ ZD8 is the evolution of the entry-level FR sports coupe that became the stepping stone of the collaboration between Toyota and Subaru.

Running on the improved version of its bespoke platform, the second-generation BRZ delivers improved dynamics and handling compared to its predecessor. Under the hood, the size of the BOXER D-4S engine was increased from its predecessor's 2.0L to 2.4L, meaning the power output is now bumped at a dramatic 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque.

The second-generation BRZ is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AT. Both variants feature Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which consists of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support.

A GT300-class Subaru BRZ was crowned the class champion at the Autobacs Super GT 2021 Series, a first for Subaru.

The added power and improved dynamics made the second-generation BRZ better to drive than its predecessor. Therefore, it feels so much more addictive and more fun to drive. I know. I said that while driving its GR86 equivalent back at the Summer Party but this is the Subaru perspective and because this is the only Subaru with the stick shift available, it feels like this is the only fun-to-drive Subaru to drive now that the WRX STI is officially dead.

Sounds sad but let's find out how much improvement the second-generation BRZ gained compared to its predecessor.

You may remember back in the summer, I tested the GR86 equivalents on a hill climb towards the caldera and found out that the new model is quicker than the first one. What about the Subie equivalents?

This time, we're going downhill and dirty, which is a challenge for a rear-wheel-drive car like the BRZ but hey, if Lia Block can rally the BRZ to victory, why not in Mexico? Putting faith in the Subaru badges donned in these rear-wheel-drive wonders, it's time to let them rip all the way down and dirty.

Roll the tape.

And now the results...

BRZ ZC6 - 4m15.038s

BRZ ZD8 - 4m07.581s

Talk about a massive improvement compared to the previous model! Guess the ToyoBaru collaboration really leveled up with this one.

The second-generation Subaru BRZ, the only Subie with the stick shift available in the Land of the Rising Sun, proved its worth with the added power and improved dynamics to keep up with the challenges of the new normal. Unlike the chicken and the egg, the Reiwa-era BRZ goes to show that it came first before the mega-popular Toyota GR86 steals its spotlight.

I was hoping for a little comparison between the two but for now, the Reiwa-era ToyoBaru coupe twins will be united because they held a grudge against this...

Yes, I know, it's a C8 Corvette, the one that stole the Japan 2021 Performance Car of the Year award from them. Still, this is going to be a payback I'm looking forward to...

Watch this space.