Gymkhana is a type of motorsport that requires precise driving techniques over a track or road that has been mapped out for stunts and fast lap times. Think of it as a choreographed dance move, but with a car. While he didn’t create it, Ken Block made Gymkhana one of the most popular series as he used his purpose-built Subaru WRX rally car to produce one of the most popular YouTube videos ever, back in 2008.
Introducing A Subaru BRAT For Gymkhana Use
Since Block’s passing in 2023, Travis Pastrana has taken up the mantle of resident wild man behind the wheel of a specially built Subaru. This year, he commissioned a 1978 Subaru BRAT to be developed into a tire wrecking rally car with 670 horsepower and 680 lb-ft of torque from a turbocharged 2.0-liter Boxer engine that revs to 9,500 rpm. They call it the Brataroo 9500 Turbo. All of that power is put to the ground via a 6-speed sequential gearbox by SADEV Transmission, Inc., with motorsports-derived differentials and an all-wheel drive system.
A Word from Travis Pastrana
“This BRAT’s completely unhinged - in the best way possible,” said Pastrana. “It’s got the soul of a vintage Subaru with the tech to do things no Gymkhana car has ever done. Every part of it is designed to take abuse, fly big, and come back for more. It’s hands down the craziest Gymkhana car we’ve ever built.”
The Brataroo’s Development
Engineering and development were a collaboration between Subaru of America and Vermont SportsCar (VSC) on the Bi-Drive Recreational All-Terrain Transporter (BRAT). The car features active aerodynamics that include the front fender louvers, which can open forward or backward to allow for precise control during certain maneuvers. There are two wings that were developed for different tasks, a large one for extreme downforce during high-speed driving, and a smaller one for everyday driving... like burnouts, drifting, and basic tire destroying duties. When the Brataroo is in the air, the larger wing will increase its size in both width and height for improved aerodynamics. Think Buzz Lightyear. Not so much flying, but landing with style.
Special Wheels and Tires
With one-off 18-inch KMC Wheels wrapped in Yokohama ADVAN A052 or APEX tires, the Brataroo is not only meant to be a one-off for racing, but also incredibly visually appealing.
A Modern Take on A Classic Interior
The interior of the BRAT resembles the original car from 1978 but features a carbon fiber dashboard and accents of flax-composite wood grain. The radio, HVAC controls, and Uniden CD radio are all the perfect tip of the cap to what would have originally come in the car. The air conditioning knobs now control the active aero.
Gymkhana 2025 Aussie Shred Can Be Watched Now
The Brataroo 9550 Turbo was introduced to the public at the 2025 SEMA show in Las Vegas in November. Gymkhana 2025, also known as “Aussie Shred” and made in conjunction with Ken Block’s company, HOONIGAN, was released on their YouTube channel in December.
Michael Hohl Subaru Has Your Next Vehicle
Sadly, Michael Hohl Subaru does not offer the Subaru Brataroo 9500 Turbo. However, you will find some of the best prices and services around. The excellent sales staff will help you find the perfect vehicle to fit your budget and lifestyle, as well as the perfect accessories to add to the adventure.
Why Choose Michael Hohl Subaru
Michael Hohl Subaru takes great pride in ensuring you get the best experience possible. Whether you are looking for a new or used car, our salespeople and finance department will work with you to get the best price possible. When it comes to servicing your vehicle, our service center will take care of your car as if it were one of their own. And our parts center will take care of all your Subaru accessory needs.
We look forward to working with you.
