Widebody BRZ: Ultimate Guide To Aggressive Styling

So, you're thinking about slapping a widebody kit on your BRZ? Awesome! You've come to the right place. This guide is all about transforming your already sweet BRZ into an absolute showstopper with a widebody. We'll dive into everything from choosing the right kit to the nitty-gritty of installation, and even touch on the supporting mods you'll need to make it all work. Buckle up, because it's gonna be a wild, wide ride!

Why Go Widebody on Your BRZ?

Let's be real, the main reason anyone considers a widebody is for the aggressive looks. A widebody kit instantly turns heads, transforming the BRZ from a sporty coupe into something that looks like it belongs on a racetrack. The dramatically widened fenders give it a menacing stance that just screams performance. But it's not just about the looks, guys. A widebody actually offers some functional benefits too.

With those wider fenders, you can fit much wider wheels and tires. This increased contact patch translates to better grip, which is crucial for improved handling and cornering. If you're serious about tracking your BRZ or just want more confidence on spirited drives, a widebody can significantly enhance performance. Plus, let's not forget the customization aspect. There are tons of widebody kits available for the BRZ, each with its own unique style. This allows you to personalize your car and make it truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you prefer a subtle, understated look or a wild, over-the-top design, there's a widebody kit out there for you.

Of course, going widebody isn't without its challenges. It's a significant modification that requires time, effort, and money. You'll need to consider the cost of the kit itself, as well as the cost of installation, paint, and any necessary supporting modifications. But for many BRZ owners, the visual impact and performance gains are well worth the investment. It's a statement, a commitment to performance, and a way to stand out from the crowd. If you're ready to take your BRZ to the next level, a widebody is definitely a modification to consider.

Choosing the Right Widebody Kit

Okay, so you're sold on the widebody idea. Now comes the fun (and sometimes overwhelming) part: choosing the right kit. The market is flooded with options, ranging from subtle fender flares to full-on, bolt-on monstrosities. How do you pick the perfect one for your BRZ? First, you need to consider your overall goals. Are you going for a specific aesthetic? Do you have performance targets in mind? Or are you just looking to make a statement?

Different kits offer different levels of aggression and visual impact. Some kits, like those from Rocket Bunny/Pandem, are known for their bold, rivet-on designs that are impossible to ignore. Others, like those from Varis, offer a more subtle, integrated look that blends seamlessly with the BRZ's factory lines. Consider what kind of statement you want to make. A more aggressive kit will definitely turn heads, but it may also attract unwanted attention from law enforcement. A more subtle kit will still enhance the car's appearance, but it won't be quite as attention-grabbing. Another crucial factor is material. Most widebody kits are made from either fiberglass or polyurethane. Fiberglass is generally more affordable, but it's also more prone to cracking and damage. Polyurethane is more flexible and durable, but it's also more expensive. If you plan on tracking your BRZ or driving it hard, polyurethane is the better choice. It can withstand more abuse and is less likely to be damaged by impacts.

Fitment is another critical consideration. Not all widebody kits are created equal, and some require extensive modification to fit properly. Before you buy a kit, do your research and read reviews from other BRZ owners. See what they have to say about the fitment and quality of the kit. A poorly fitting kit can be a nightmare to install, and it may never look quite right. Finally, consider your budget. Widebody kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Don't just go for the cheapest kit you can find. Remember, you get what you pay for. A cheap kit may be made from low-quality materials and may not fit properly. It's better to spend a little more money on a high-quality kit that will look good and last for years to come. Carefully weigh your options, do your research, and choose a kit that meets your needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. The right widebody kit can transform your BRZ into a true masterpiece.

The Installation Process: DIY or Pro?

So, you've got your widebody kit – awesome! Now comes the big question: do you install it yourself, or do you take it to a professional? This really depends on your skill level, your available tools, and your tolerance for frustration. Installing a widebody kit is not a simple bolt-on process. It typically involves cutting, drilling, and modifying your car's body panels. If you're not comfortable with these types of modifications, it's best to leave it to the professionals.

If you're a seasoned DIYer with experience in bodywork, you might be able to tackle the installation yourself. But be prepared for a challenging and time-consuming project. You'll need a variety of tools, including a grinder, a drill, a sander, and a body filler. You'll also need a good understanding of bodywork techniques, such as cutting, welding, and filling. The first step is typically to remove the existing fenders. This usually involves drilling out rivets or cutting away the factory metal. Then, you'll need to trim the new widebody panels to fit your car. This is where precision is key. You want to make sure the panels fit flush against the body and that there are no gaps or overlaps. Once the panels are trimmed, you'll need to attach them to the car. This can be done with rivets, screws, or even adhesive. Make sure the panels are securely attached and that they won't come loose over time. After the panels are attached, you'll need to fill any gaps or imperfections with body filler. This will create a smooth, seamless transition between the widebody panels and the factory bodywork. Finally, you'll need to sand and prime the widebody kit before painting it. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and that the finish is smooth and even.

If all of this sounds daunting, don't worry! There's no shame in taking your car to a professional body shop. A professional installer will have the experience, tools, and expertise to install your widebody kit correctly and efficiently. They can also handle any unexpected problems that may arise during the installation process. Of course, professional installation will cost more than doing it yourself. But it's often worth the investment to ensure that the job is done right. When choosing a body shop, be sure to do your research and read reviews from other customers. Look for a shop that has experience installing widebody kits and that has a good reputation for quality workmanship. Whether you choose to DIY or go pro, remember that the installation process is critical to the overall look and performance of your widebody BRZ. Take your time, be patient, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Supporting Mods: Wheels, Suspension, and More

Okay, your widebody is installed, and your BRZ looks absolutely menacing. But the job isn't quite done yet. To really make the most of your widebody kit, you'll need to consider some supporting modifications. These mods will not only enhance the look of your car but also improve its performance and handling.

First and foremost, you'll need new wheels and tires. The factory wheels and tires will look tiny and out of place with the wider fenders. You'll need to choose wheels with the appropriate offset and width to fill out the widebody arches. This may require some trial and error, but it's worth the effort to get the perfect fitment. When choosing tires, consider your driving style and the type of roads you'll be driving on. If you plan on tracking your BRZ, you'll want to choose high-performance tires that offer plenty of grip. If you're mostly driving on the street, you can choose a more comfortable and street-friendly tire. Next up is suspension. The factory suspension may not be able to handle the wider wheels and tires, especially if you've lowered the car. Upgrading to a set of coilovers will allow you to fine-tune the ride height and damping to achieve the perfect balance of comfort and performance. Coilovers also offer a stiffer spring rate, which will help to reduce body roll and improve handling. In addition to wheels, tires, and suspension, you may also want to consider some other supporting modifications. These could include things like a front splitter, side skirts, and a rear diffuser. These aerodynamic upgrades will not only enhance the look of your car but also improve its downforce and stability at high speeds. You may also want to consider upgrading your brakes to handle the increased grip and performance. A set of larger rotors and calipers will provide better stopping power and reduce brake fade.

Finally, don't forget about the engine. While a widebody kit doesn't directly affect engine performance, it's a great opportunity to add some extra power. A turbocharger or supercharger kit can significantly increase the horsepower and torque of your BRZ, making it even more fun to drive. With the right supporting modifications, your widebody BRZ will be a true force to be reckoned with. It'll look amazing, handle like a dream, and have plenty of power to back it up. Just remember to do your research, choose quality parts, and take your time with the installation. The end result will be well worth the effort.

Painting and Finishing: Making It Perfect

Alright, you've installed the widebody kit, you've got your wheels and tires sorted, and you've even upgraded the suspension. Now it's time for the final step: painting and finishing. This is where you really bring the whole project together and make your widebody BRZ look like a million bucks.

The first decision you'll need to make is whether to paint the widebody kit yourself or take it to a professional painter. If you have experience painting cars, you might be able to do it yourself. But be warned, painting a car is not as easy as it looks. It requires a lot of skill, patience, and specialized equipment. If you're not confident in your abilities, it's best to leave it to the professionals. A professional painter will have the tools and expertise to achieve a flawless finish. They can also match the paint to your car's existing color and blend the widebody kit seamlessly with the factory bodywork. Of course, professional painting will cost more than doing it yourself. But it's often worth the investment to ensure that the job is done right. Before you start painting, you'll need to prepare the widebody kit properly. This involves sanding the kit to remove any imperfections and applying a primer to help the paint adhere. You'll also need to mask off any areas that you don't want to be painted, such as the windows and trim. Once the widebody kit is prepared, you can start applying the paint. It's important to apply several thin coats of paint, rather than one thick coat. This will help to prevent runs and drips and ensure a smooth, even finish. After the paint has dried, you can apply a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy shine. The clear coat will also help to resist scratches and fading. Once the clear coat has dried, you can polish and wax the widebody kit to really bring out the shine. This will also help to protect the paint from the elements. With a little bit of care and attention to detail, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will make your widebody BRZ stand out from the crowd. Remember, the painting and finishing process is just as important as the installation process. Don't cut corners or rush through it. Take your time, be patient, and the results will speak for themselves.