If you own a Subaru BRZ or are thinking about upgrading your wheels, understanding BRZ rims is important.
These rims are designed to improve both the performance and appearance of your car.
In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know about BRZ rims. I will cover what makes them unique, the different types available, and how they have evolved. I’ll also help you understand how BRZ rims compare to other modern wheels.
Choosing the right rims is crucial for performance, style, and fit. I’ll share five useful tips for selecting the best rims for your BRZ, along with five common mistakes to avoid.
By the end of this blog, you’ll have all the information you need to pick the perfect BRZ rims for your car.
What Makes BRZ Rims Unique?
BRZ rims are specifically designed for the Subaru BRZ, a car known for its lightweight, sporty design. These rims are crafted to match the BRZ’s performance capabilities, including agility, handling, and road feel.
What sets BRZ rims apart from other rims is their combination of strength and lightweight design. Aluminum alloy rims are the most common, providing a great balance of performance and durability.
These rims are designed to reduce unsprung weight, directly improving handling and acceleration. With BRZ rims, you get both style and substance.
In addition to the performance aspects, BRZ rims are designed to enhance the car’s visual appeal.
The sleek designs, paired with finishes like matte black, silver, or gunmetal gray, offer a sporty and modern look that complements the car’s design.
Exploring the Types of BRZ Rims
When it comes to selecting BRZ rims, there are several types to consider. Each type has its own benefits depending on your needs and driving style.
1. Alloy Rims
Alloy rims are the most common type for the Subaru BRZ. They are made from a mixture of aluminum and other metals, providing a lightweight yet durable option.
The lighter weight helps improve fuel efficiency, handling, and acceleration. Alloy rims also offer a variety of designs and finishes, so you can find something that fits your style.
- Pros: Lightweight, durable, stylish, and available in many designs.
- Cons: It can be more expensive than steel rims.
2. Steel Rims
Steel rims are heavier than alloy rims, but they are often chosen for their durability and affordability.
They can handle tough conditions, like driving in snow or off-road, and are typically more cost-effective.
- Pros: More affordable, durable, and great for winter tires.
- Cons: Heavier, less stylish than alloy rims.
3. Forged Rims
Forged rims are made by compressing a solid piece of aluminum into shape, making them incredibly strong and lightweight.
These rims are ideal for performance enthusiasts who prioritize strength and minimal weight.
- Pros: Extremely lightweight and strong.
- Cons: Expensive, may not be necessary for daily driving.
The Evolution of BRZ Rim Designs
The design of BRZ rims has evolved alongside the car’s performance advancements. In the early years, Subaru offered more basic designs that focused mainly on durability.
Over time, as the BRZ became more popular among sports car enthusiasts, rim designs began to focus more on performance and aesthetics.
Modern BRZ rims often feature lightweight, multi-spoke designs that not only look sleek but also provide maximum strength without adding extra weight.
The improvement in rim designs over the years reflects the car’s own growth, with modern versions of the BRZ benefiting from improved aerodynamics and weight distribution thanks to the rims.
These newer rim designs are typically more aggressive in appearance, using finishes such as matte black, bronze, or hyper silver.
In addition to looking good, these rims are engineered to improve handling by reducing unsprung weight and allowing for better tire contact with the road.
Popular Vehicle Models That Use BRZ Rims
Although BRZ rims are designed for the Subaru BRZ, they can also be compatible with a range of other vehicles that share the same bolt pattern and offset.
1. Toyota 86
The Toyota 86 shares the same platform as the BRZ, meaning it uses very similar wheels and rims. Many Toyota 86 owners opt for BRZ rims for better performance and style.
2. Subaru WRX
While the Subaru WRX isn’t an exact match for the BRZ, certain models with compatible bolt patterns can use BRZ rims. For owners looking for a performance boost, these wheels can offer improved handling and a sporty look.
3. Other Subaru Models
Some Subaru models with a 5×100 bolt pattern (like the Impreza) may be compatible with BRZ rims, depending on their specific design.
How BRZ Rims Stand Out from Modern Wheels
When comparing BRZ rims to modern wheels from other sports cars, there are a few factors that make them stand out:
| Feature | BRZ Rims | Modern Wheels |
|---|---|---|
| Design Focus | Lightweight, performance-focused, sporty | Focus on luxury, technology, and style |
| Material | Typically aluminum alloy, lightweight | Varied materials (alloy, forged, steel) |
| Bolt Pattern | 5×100 bolt pattern | Common patterns: 5×120, 5×114.3 |
| Performance | Designed to improve handling, stability | Performance can vary (not always optimized for handling) |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Sporty, aggressive design for performance cars | More variety in design, often more polished finishes |
| Weight | Lighter weight for better performance | Heavier wheels for better comfort or luxury look |
| Price Range | Affordable compared to other sports car rims | It can be more expensive, depending on the material and design. |
| Off-Road Compatibility | Often suited for track and road performance | Less commonly designed for off-road use |
| Durability | Durable with minimal weight impact | Varies depending on the material (e.g., forged wheels are stronger) |
5 Tips for Selecting BRZ Rims
Choosing the right rims for your BRZ can significantly affect both its performance and appearance. Five tips to help you select the best:
- Check the Bolt Pattern: Ensure the rims you choose have the correct 5×100 bolt pattern for your BRZ.
- Choose the Right Size: Rims come in various sizes, typically from 16 to 18 inches. Consider how the size will affect your ride, handling, and tire choice.
- Material Matters: Decide between aluminum alloy, steel, or forged rims based on your driving needs, budget, and desired performance.
- Offset and Backspacing: Choose rims with the correct offset and backspacing to avoid issues with fitment and handling.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Select a design that matches your personal style. Whether it’s sleek, modern, or bold, choose a finish and design that suits your taste.
5 Common Mistakes When Choosing BRZ Rims
Choosing the wrong BRZ rims can lead to poor performance and even damage your vehicle. Five common mistakes to avoid:
- Ignoring Bolt Pattern: Using the wrong bolt pattern can make it impossible to mount the wheels on your vehicle. Always double-check your 5×100 bolt pattern.
- Not Considering Offset: Choosing rims with the wrong offset can lead to fitment issues and affect handling. Make sure to choose the right offset based on your vehicle’s specifications.
- Overlooking Weigh: Heavier rims can negatively impact your vehicle’s performance, so opt for lightweight rims, especially if you drive on tight corners or track your car.
- Ignoring Tire Compatibility: Ensure that the rim size matches your tire size. Incorrect tire and rim combinations can cause safety issues and poor handling.
- Skipping Regular Maintenance: Failing to maintain your rims can lead to long-term damage. Clean them regularly and check for signs of wear.
Conclusion
Choosing the right rims for your Subaru BRZ can make a big difference in both performance and appearance.
BRZ rims are designed specifically for this car, offering a balance of lightweight strength, durability, and sporty looks.
They help improve handling, stability, and acceleration, making them perfect for driving enthusiasts. With various options available, including alloy, forged, and steel rims, it’s important to pick the one that best suits your needs and driving style.
The right BRZ rims can enhance not only your car’s performance but also its overall look. Pay attention to factors like bolt pattern, offset, and material when selecting rims.
It’s also essential to avoid common mistakes, like mismatched tire sizes or incorrect offset, which can affect your car’s handling.
By following the tips in this guide, you can make a smart choice and enjoy your BRZ with new rims that improve performance and style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of rims are best for a Subaru BRZ?
The best rims for a Subaru BRZ are typically aluminum alloy or forged rims. These materials are lightweight and strong, providing better performance.
How do I know what size BRZ rims to choose?
BRZ rims usually range from 16 to 18 inches in diameter, with widths between 7 and 9 inches. Consider the wheel size that best fits your car and driving style.
Are BRZ rims good for performance driving?
Yes, BRZ rims are designed to improve performance, including better handling and stability, making them ideal for track days or everyday driving.
Can I upgrade to larger rims on my BRZ?
Yes, you can upgrade to larger rims, but make sure they are compatible with your car’s offset and bolt pattern. Larger rims can affect handling and performance if not chosen correctly.