Travis Pastrana’s New Gymkhana Car Is a ‘Completely Unhinged’ Subaru Brat

The air crackled with anticipation. I could practically taste the gasoline fumes and feel the rumble of engines even before I saw it. A crowd had gathered, buzzing with excitement, their phones held high, all pointed towards the shrouded figure in the center of the makeshift arena. It was a cold, overcast morning, typical for this part of the world, but the gloom couldn’t dampen the electric energy. Then, the sheet dropped. And there it was: Travis Pastrana’s new Gymkhana car, a Subaru Brat unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

This isn’t your grandpa’s Brat. This is a completely unhinged Subaru Brat, a Frankensteinian creation of pure, unadulterated horsepower and rally-bred engineering. Think Mad Max meets a classic 80s pickup, and you’re getting close. (Honestly, I think even Mad Max would be a little intimidated.) The initial reactions were a mix of awe and disbelief. Someone near me just kept repeating, “That’s…that’s insane!” And he wasn’t wrong. It’s clear that the team at Hoonigan have once again pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. This isn’t just about going fast; it’s about making a statement. This machine is a testament to Pastrana’s fearless driving style and the team’s commitment to crafting the most outrageous vehicles imaginable.

The rumor mill had been churning for months, whispering about a new Gymkhana car build, but nobody could have predicted this. A Subaru Brat? Seriously? It seemed like an unlikely choice, a quirky little truck more suited to hauling groceries than shredding tires. But that’s precisely what makes it so brilliant. The element of surprise is key, and Pastrana and Hoonigan have mastered the art of the unexpected. This project signifies a bold new direction for the Gymkhana series, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology. It’s a reminder that fun and innovation can coexist, and that sometimes, the most unconventional ideas lead to the most spectacular results.

The first thing that strikes you is the sheer aggression of the thing. The flared wheel arches, the massive rear wing, and the exposed roll cage all scream “performance.” This is not a show car; it’s a purpose-built machine designed to conquer tarmac. One of the engineers, who wished to remain anonymous, confided, “We basically took the Brat’s soul and injected it with pure adrenaline.” You can see it in every line, every angle. The modifications are extensive, bordering on extreme. The original Brat’s charming, if somewhat underpowered, engine is long gone, replaced by something far more potent. And the suspension? Forget about the Brat’s bouncy ride; this thing is built for precision handling.

The level of detail is astounding. Every component has been carefully considered and optimized for performance. Even the paint job, a vibrant mix of classic Subaru blue and gold, feels like a nod to the brand’s rally heritage. It’s a beautiful machine, in a brutally functional kind of way. But beyond the aesthetics, it’s the engineering that truly impresses. This Subaru Brat has been transformed into a weapon, ready to take on any challenge Pastrana throws its way. The sound alone is enough to send shivers down your spine.

Under the Hood: Power and Performance

So, what exactly is lurking beneath that iconic Brat shell? Well, details are still somewhat scarce, but we can piece together some key information. It’s safe to assume that the original, anemic engine has been replaced with a high-performance, turbocharged powerplant. Sources suggest a heavily modified Subaru boxer engine, likely derived from the WRX STI, but with significant upgrades. Think bigger turbo, reinforced internals, and a custom engine management system.

Engine Specifications (Rumored):

• Engine Type: Modified Subaru Boxer Engine
• Displacement: Approximately 2.5 liters
• Turbocharger: Custom, high-boost unit
• Horsepower: Estimated to exceed 800 horsepower
• Torque: Estimated to exceed 600 lb-ft

“We’re aiming for maximum power and responsiveness,” another member of the Hoonigan team whispered, “Travis needs instant torque to initiate those drifts.” The AWD system is, of course, a critical component. A heavily reinforced drivetrain ensures that all that power can be effectively transferred to the ground. Expect a custom differential setup, designed for aggressive power delivery and maximum control.

Drivetrain Details:

• AWD System: Heavily reinforced custom system
• Differentials: Custom, performance-oriented
• Transmission: Sequential gearbox for rapid shifts

The exhaust note is absolutely menacing. A custom exhaust system amplifies the engine’s roar, creating a sound that is both visceral and intoxicating. It’s the kind of sound that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

Suspension and Handling: Taming the Beast

All that power would be useless without a capable suspension system. The Subaru Brat‘s original suspension was, shall we say, less than ideal for the demands of Gymkhana. A complete overhaul was required.

Suspension Upgrades:

• Custom coilover suspension
• Adjustable dampers
• Reinforced chassis
• Increased track width

The result is a suspension setup that is both incredibly stiff and incredibly responsive. It allows Pastrana to precisely control the car, even when it’s sideways at high speeds. The wide track width further enhances stability, making the Brat surprisingly nimble for its size. “We needed to make it handle like a go-kart,” one of the suspension engineers explained. “Responsive, predictable, and capable of taking a beating.”

Exterior Modifications: A Nod to the Past, a Glimpse into the Future

While the mechanical upgrades are impressive, the exterior modifications are equally striking. The Subaru Brat‘s iconic shape has been retained, but with a healthy dose of aggression. The flared wheel arches, the front splitter, and the massive rear wing all serve a purpose: to improve aerodynamics and generate downforce.

Exterior Highlights:

• Flared wheel arches
• Aggressive front splitter
• Massive rear wing
• Exposed roll cage
• Custom paint scheme

The exposed roll cage is a particularly cool touch, adding a layer of safety and visual drama. The custom paint scheme, a modern take on Subaru’s classic rally colors, ties the whole package together. Even the small details, like the custom wheels and tires, have been carefully chosen to maximize performance. It’s a testament to the team’s attention to detail. They’ve managed to create a car that is both visually stunning and incredibly functional.

Travis Pastrana: The Man Behind the Wheel

Of course, none of this would be possible without the skill and daring of Travis Pastrana. He’s a legend in the world of motorsports, known for his aggressive driving style and his willingness to push the limits. He and the Hoonigan crew are a match made in heaven, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on four wheels. It’s a thrilling combination to witness.

Pastrana’s involvement goes beyond just driving. He’s actively involved in the design and development of the Gymkhana cars, providing valuable feedback to the engineering team. He understands what it takes to create a car that is both fast and fun to drive. “Travis is a key part of the process,” one of the engineers said. “He knows exactly what he wants, and he’s not afraid to push us to deliver it.”

The Future of Gymkhana: A New Era of Insanity

With the introduction of the unhinged Subaru Brat, the Gymkhana series is entering a new era. Expect more outrageous stunts, more mind-blowing drifts, and more unforgettable moments. Pastrana and Hoonigan have raised the bar once again, and it will be interesting to see how the competition responds. The future of motorsports entertainment is looking bright. And loud. Very loud.

Conclusion

Travis Pastrana’s new Gymkhana car is more than just a modified Subaru Brat; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to the power of creativity, innovation, and a healthy dose of insanity. It’s also an absolute spectacle. It’s a reminder that anything is possible, as long as you’re willing to push the boundaries and defy expectations. I, for one, can’t wait to see what Pastrana and the Hoonigan crew do next. If this Subaru Brat is any indication, it’s going to be wild.