2013 Subaru BRZ Widebody Kits: A Buyer's Guide

Hey everyone, and welcome back to the blog! Today, we're diving deep into something that gets a lot of car enthusiasts' hearts racing: widebody kits for the 2013 Subaru BRZ. You know, that awesome little sports car that's practically begging to be customized. If you're looking to give your BRZ a seriously aggressive stance, improve its handling, and turn heads everywhere you go, then a widebody kit is definitely the way to go. We'll cover everything from what a widebody kit actually is, why you'd want one for your 2013 BRZ, the different types available, and some crucial tips to keep in mind before you make the leap. So, buckle up, guys, because we're about to get technical and talk about making your BRZ look absolutely killer.

What Exactly is a Widebody Kit, Anyway?

Alright, let's start with the basics. What is a widebody kit? In simple terms, a widebody kit is a set of aftermarket body panels designed to widen the car's track and overall stance. Think fender flares, extended side skirts, new bumpers, and sometimes even a new hood or trunk. The primary goal is to accommodate wider wheels and tires, which, as any gearhead knows, can significantly improve grip and handling. But let's be honest, a huge part of the appeal is the aggressive, show-stopping look it gives your car. It transforms a sleek sports car like the 2013 Subaru BRZ into something that looks like it just rolled off a race track. These kits extend the bodywork outwards, creating a much more muscular and imposing profile. We're talking about fenders that bulge out, giving the car a wider, more planted appearance. It's not just about aesthetics, though; there are real performance benefits that come with widening the car's stance. By fitting larger, wider tires, you increase the contact patch with the road. More rubber on the tarmac means better traction for acceleration, braking, and cornering. This is especially beneficial for a car like the BRZ, which is known for its balanced chassis and agile handling. A widebody kit allows you to push those limits even further by enabling the fitment of beefier tire and wheel setups that wouldn't normally fit under the stock fenders. So, when you're looking at a widebody kit, you're investing in both style and substance, enhancing both the visual appeal and the dynamic capabilities of your 2013 BRZ.

Why Should You Consider a Widebody Kit for Your 2013 BRZ?

So, why would you want to slap a widebody kit onto your 2013 Subaru BRZ? Well, aside from the obvious cool factor, there are some pretty compelling reasons. Firstly, as we touched on, performance enhancement. The 2013 BRZ is already a fantastic driver's car, praised for its rear-wheel-drive dynamics and balanced handling. By fitting a widebody kit, you open the door to fitting significantly wider tires. This translates directly to more grip. Imagine sharper cornering, better acceleration off the line, and improved braking. It’s all about putting more rubber down on the road, which is a fundamental principle of performance driving. This enhanced grip can make a noticeable difference, whether you're carving up mountain roads or hitting the occasional track day. Secondly, it's all about making your BRZ unique. These cars, while popular, can often blend in a bit. A widebody kit is one of the most dramatic ways to set your car apart from the crowd. It gives your 2013 Subaru BRZ a truly bespoke look, reflecting your personal style and commitment to the build. You're not just driving a car; you're driving a statement. Think about the visual impact – the flared arches, the aggressive stance, the sheer presence it commands. It’s a head-turner, for sure. And let's not forget the aesthetic appeal. The lines of a widebody kit can complement and enhance the original design of the BRZ, giving it a more muscular, athletic, and visually exciting appearance. It’s like giving your car a full-body workout, resulting in a more sculpted and powerful silhouette. Plus, for those who are planning on significant suspension and wheel upgrades, a widebody kit is often a necessary component to make it all fit together cohesively. It allows for more extreme offsets and larger wheel diameters, which can further enhance both the look and the performance of your 2013 Subaru BRZ. So, if you're serious about customizing your ride and maximizing its potential, a widebody kit is a pretty solid investment.

Types of Widebody Kits for the 2013 BRZ

When you start looking into widebody kits for the 2013 Subaru BRZ, you'll quickly realize there isn't just one way to go wide. Different manufacturers offer various styles and approaches. Let's break down some of the common types you'll encounter. First off, you have your bolt-on kits. These are typically made from materials like ABS plastic or fiberglass and are designed to be bolted directly onto the existing body panels, usually requiring you to cut into your stock fenders. They often come as a set of fender flares, side skirts, and sometimes front and rear bumper extensions. Bolt-on kits are generally more affordable and can be a good entry point into the widebody world. They offer a significant visual change and allow for wider wheel fitment without a complete overhaul of the car's body. However, they can sometimes look a bit tacked-on if not expertly fitted. Then you have over-fender kits, which are similar to bolt-on but often integrate more seamlessly with the car's lines. These might replace sections of the original fenders entirely or be designed to blend more smoothly. They still require cutting but aim for a more factory-like integration. Moving up in complexity and cost, you find widebody kits that replace entire body panels. These are often more comprehensive, involving new front and rear quarter panels, potentially new doors, and integrated bumpers. These kits are usually made from more premium materials like carbon fiber or polyurethane and offer the most dramatic transformation. They are designed to flow with the car's original design language, creating a cohesive and aggressive look. These are often favored by serious builders and those looking for a show-quality finish. Materials are a big factor here, too. You'll see kits made from fiberglass, which is relatively affordable and easy to repair but can be brittle. ABS plastic is more flexible and durable than fiberglass. Polyurethane offers good impact resistance. And then there's carbon fiber, which is lightweight, incredibly strong, and looks amazing, but comes with a premium price tag. When choosing, consider your budget, the look you're going for, and how much modification you're willing to undertake. Each type offers a different level of visual impact, performance potential, and installation complexity for your 2013 Subaru BRZ.

Key Considerations Before Buying a Widebody Kit

Alright, before you go clicking 'add to cart' on that awesome widebody kit for your 2013 Subaru BRZ, let's talk about some super important things you need to think about. First and foremost, budget. Guys, widebody kits aren't cheap. You're not just paying for the panels themselves; you need to factor in professional installation, painting, new wheels, and wider tires. This can easily add up to thousands of dollars. So, make sure you have a realistic budget that covers the kit and all the associated costs. Installation is another huge one. Unless you're a seasoned body shop professional with all the right tools and skills, installing a widebody kit is not a DIY job for the faint of heart. It often involves cutting into your car's body, precise fitting, and professional painting to match your existing paintwork. Cutting into your fenders is permanent, so you want to make sure it's done right the first time. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure a seamless, high-quality finish and proper fitment. Then there's the legality and insurance aspect. In some regions, significantly altering your car's body width can have legal implications. You might need to get it inspected or registered differently. Also, check with your insurance provider. Informing them about major modifications like a widebody kit is crucial. Failure to do so could void your insurance policy in the event of an accident. Wheel and tire fitment is critical. The whole point of a widebody is to fit wider wheels and tires. You'll need to research appropriate wheel sizes, offsets, and tire profiles that will complement your chosen widebody kit and not cause rubbing issues. This often involves careful measurement and consultation with wheel and tire specialists. Don't forget about material and quality. As we discussed, kits come in different materials. Fiberglass is common but can crack. Carbon fiber is light and strong but expensive. Research the reputation of the manufacturer and the quality of the materials used. A cheaper kit might save you money upfront but could lead to headaches down the line with poor fitment or durability issues. Finally, think about the overall aesthetic. Does the kit flow well with the existing lines of the 2013 Subaru BRZ? Does it achieve the aggressive look you're after? Look at plenty of examples online to see how different kits transform the car before making your final decision. These kits are a significant commitment, so doing your homework is key!

Popular Widebody Kit Manufacturers for the BRZ

When you're ready to take the plunge and get that aggressive stance for your 2013 Subaru BRZ, knowing which manufacturers to look at can save you a ton of time and research. Several companies have made a name for themselves by producing high-quality widebody kits for the first-generation BRZ, including the 2013 model. One of the most recognized names in the widebody game is Rocket Bunny (Pandem). They are legendary for their aggressive, race-inspired designs that often feature sharp lines and dramatic flares. Their kits are known for their distinct look and have graced countless show cars and track machines. While they can be on the pricier side, the aesthetic payoff is undeniable. Another popular choice is Agressiv. They offer kits that aim for a slightly more refined, yet still very aggressive, look. Their designs often integrate well with the car's factory lines, providing a menacing yet cohesive appearance. For those seeking a slightly different flavor, Liberty Walk is another brand that offers widebody kits, though they are often known for their more extreme,