2022 Subaru BRZ Debuts With New 228 HP N/A Boxer, Stiffer Chassis And More Tech

Subaru has finally pulled the wraps off the new 2022 BRZ, the second generation of the Japanese sports coupe, which now features an improved chassis, a new naturally aspirated engine, and the same performance focus as its predecessor.

Let’s begin with what’s under the bonnet; Subaru opted for a new naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine with a redline at 7,000 rpm, producing 228 HP and 184 lb-ft of torque. That’s 15 percent more torque than the previous model.

The new engine helps the 2022 Subaru BRZ to achieve an even lower center of gravity and will be paired to either a standard six-speed manual with a short-throw shifter or a six-speed automatic transmission that features a new Sport mode for more rapid downshifts. A limited-slip differential will be standard across the range.

Light is right

Subaru claims that the new BRZ is the lightest 2+2 production sports car in the U.S. market, tipping the scales at just under 2,900 lbs (1,315 kg) estimated. That’s possible thanks to the use of aluminum for the roof, front fenders, and hood. The chassis has been reinforced to the point it now offers 50 percent greater torsional stiffness, thanks to a new chassis mounting system, sub-frame architecture, and other connection points.

The new BRZ however doesn’t sacrifice everyday comfort either, offering a useful cargo area that has space for things like a mountain bike, golf clubs, or even a set of tires and tools for track days with the rear seats folded.

New driver-focused dashboard with modern tech

Speaking of the interior, the 2022 Subaru BRZ gets a completely new driver-focused dashboard with all the modern features you could ask for. The driver instruments are now digital, with a new 7-inch screen featuring the tachometer front and center with a digital speedometer readout in its center. To the left of the tachometer, drivers can configure what information will be shown from amps, water temperature, or a g-meter. When track mode is engaged the tachometer shifts to a linear graph with a color display.

The Subaru Starlink infotainment system runs through an eight-inch touchscreen display and features Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, and more. More expensive trims also include telematics, while BRZs fitted with the six-speed automatic transmission also get Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.

Compared to its predecessor, the new Subaru BRZ is 1.2 inches (30 mm) longer, has the same width but it’s 0.4 inches (10 mm) lower. The wheelbase measures 101.4 inches (2.575 mm), 0.2 inches (5 mm) longer than the previous model.

Subaru didn’t reveal any acceleration figures of the 2022 BRZ at this point but did detail the model’s new stability control system. The new redesigned VSC offers the choice between five different settings to allow more input from the driver before it engages the traction control system. Of course, there’s the option to completely disengage it and be on your own.

Sales to start in the early fall of 2021

The 2022 Subaru BRZ will enter production at the company’s Gunma factory in Japan and will go on sale across the U.S. market in the early fall of 2021.