2022 Subaru BRZ breaks cover, features more power and tech

KUALA LUMPUR: After much teasing, Subaru has finally introduced the second generation of the Japanese sports coupe, the BRZ. Being a pure sports car with Subaru DNA, the new version carries the same fundamentals with low vehicle weight, an ultra-low center of gravity with precision handling in an affordable 2+2 pack. While for the 2022 model year, the new BRZ gets more power, better handling, improved styling, increased torsional stiffness, as well as a restyled interior. 

Under the hood, the all-new BRZ houses a bigger 2.4-litre flat-4 engine that replaced the outgoing model’s 2.0-litre unit. The new engine shows a power bump by generating 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of peak torque as compared to the previous engine’s 205 hp and 156 lb-ft. More importantly, access to that torque became easier, with the new engine achieving maximum level at 3,700 rpm rather than the 6,700 rpm needed earlier. Although, max horsepower still requires 7,000 rpm.

Subaru will offer the new sports coupe in both Premium and Limited trims mated with two transmission choices; a standard 6-speed manual or an available 6-speed automatic along with a new Sport mode enabling more aggressive driving. 

Despite its sporting intentions, the BRZ’s bold new styling is also equally impressive as its handling prowess. The coupe’s overall stance is modern, agile, and powerful, with focused and functional aerodynamic details. The new iteration is an inch longer and almost half an inch lower than its predecessor, which results in a low and wide frontal area. The front facia highlights larger air intakes, teardrop-shaped headlamps, bold fender flares, and a double bubble-style roofline. At the rear, a dual exhaust system and a ducktail rear spoiler complement the overall look.

As far as the weight is concerned, the new BRZ weighs around 2,900 lbs (1,315 kg). According to the automaker, it is the lightest 2+2 production sports car in the U.S.

Inside, the 2022 Subaru BRZ gets the following features:

• 7-inch screen digital instrument panel and a customizable meter that displays amps, and water temperature
• 8-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support
• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
• A rearview camera
• Bucket seats with red accents

Due to hit the US market in 2021, the new Subaru BRZ will soon enter production at the brand’s Gunma factory in Japan.

Also read: 2021 Subaru Levorg made its official debut in Japan