2022 Subaru BRZ

https://www.caranddriver.com/subaru/brz

Overview

Prioritizing affordability and lightweight agility over high horsepower and high-priced exclusivity, the 2022 Subaru BRZ continues to be a pure sports car for everyone. The completely redesigned rear-drive-only coupe remains a unique entry in Subaru's otherwise all-wheel-drive lineup. The same is in store for its mechanical twin, the Toyota 86. With a 228-hp naturally aspirated flat-four, the BRZ is more powerful than before, which at least partly addresses one of our biggest complaints. Combine that with a lower center of gravity as well as a feathery curb weight and this assertively styled 2+2 hatchback is set up to deliver the seat-of-your-pants feeling that defines all great sports cars. With a new interior design that brings modern tech but preserves its predecessor's practicality, the 2022 BRZ is prepared to take on the king of affordable sports cars, Mazda MX-5 Miata.

What's New for 2022?

The 2022 BRZ introduces the second generation of Subaru's lightweight sports cars. Not only does the coupe sit about 0.5 inch lower and span about 1 inch longer, but its bodywork is also more distinguished than before. Its interior is reimagined with more technology without sacrificing practicality. Driving enthusiasts will also welcome a new 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder engine that's more powerful than the 2.0-liter version it replaces.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Premium $28,955

Limited $31,455

Subaru offers the 2022 BRZ in two trim levels: Premium and Limited. We'd spring for the Limited, as it adds desirable features such as 18-inch aluminum wheels, summer tires, and blind-spot monitoring. A six-speed manual is standard and is the transmission best suited for Subaru's sports car, but those who prefer an automatic can get one for $1600.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Under the hood of the new BRZ is a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder, otherwise known as a “boxer” engine. It generates 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Power is still routed to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Along with improving acceleration times, the 2.4-liter feels more responsive than the previous engine, even if it's not enough to make the BRZ the quickest car in town. Subaru says it now has a lower center of gravity, too, and a curb weight of just over 2800 pounds, which is nearly perfectly distributed between the front and rear. These characteristics, combined with a stiffer structure, make the BRZ even more entertaining to drive than before. Our driving impressions revealed tons of steering feedback, sure-footed cornering composure, and the ability to swing the tail out. Its ride quality is on the firm side and not very refined, but it contributes to the car's playfulness. While every model comes standard with a limited-slip rear differential, the Premium model rolls on a set of 17-inch wheels while the Limited wears 18-inchers.