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, the 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 inches 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.

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 lb-ft of torque, which are increases of 23 and 28, respectively, over the last generation’s 2.0-liter boxer. Power is still routed to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Subaru says the coupe now has a lower center of gravity as well as an estimated curb weight of just under 2900 pounds and that it’s nearly perfectly distributed between the front and rear. These characteristics, combined with a stiffer structure, look to make the BRZ even more entertaining to drive than before. Its traction and stability system features five different settings, and the driver has the ability to fully deactivate the system for even more control. 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-inches.