Gymkhana Finally Conquers the Australian Outback
After a decade of anticipation, the iconic Gymkhana series has delivered its Australian debut. Filmed against the breathtaking and brutal backdrop of the Outback, this installment features action sports legend Travis Pastrana pushing a custom-built Subaru Brataroo to its absolute limits. The result is a masterfully edited nine-minute tribute to controlled chaos, celebrating the very birthplace of automotive hooniganism.
A Machine Built for Mayhem: The Subaru Brataroo
Pastrana’s weapon of choice is no ordinary vehicle. Dubbed the “Subaru Brataroo,” this wild creation is based on a classic Subaru Brat but is powered by a monstrous 862-horsepower turbocharged boxer engine. The build combines vintage styling with modern, competition-grade components, creating a unique and unpredictable machine perfectly suited for the dusty, wide-open landscapes of Australia. Its ability to slide, jump, and drift with violent precision is on full display throughout the film.
Pastrana’s Playground: The Spirit of the “Hoon”
The Australian Outback is more than just a scenic location; it’s the spiritual home of the “hoon.” This term, ingrained in Australian car culture, describes the act of driving with exuberant, skilful, and often sideways abandon. Pastrana embodies this spirit completely, threading the powerful Brataroo through rusting car graveyards, across sun-baked plains, and around iconic landmarks. The film is a high-octane love letter to the freedom and raw excitement that defines Australian motorsport passion.
From breathtaking drone shots capturing massive dust clouds to intimate angles of the car’s suspension working overtime, the cinematography is as impressive as the driving. While the concept of playing the entire film in reverse was entertained, the raw, forward-driving action proved more than sufficient. This chapter secures Gymkhana’s legacy by taking its signature style to one of the world’s most epic and demanding environments.