One of the most-anticipated sports cars to debut this year, the 2022 Subaru BRZ has arrived. Packing a more powerful engine, strengthened chassis and a more refined interior, the all-new second-generation Subaru BRZ promises sharper dynamics and heightened driving engagement while remaining relatively affordable – one of the biggest selling points of the first-generation BRZ.
A sports coupe needs to look good, and the new BRZ has got that nailed. A perfect blend of contoured surfaces and sharp lines give the new rear-wheel drive coupe a sleeker and more upmarket look. The styling has no doubt grown up a little, but the more mature design is balanced out with visibly sporty elements such as those flared fenders, large front bumper intakes, racy side vents and deep rear diffuser.
And in the trademark Subaru Rally Blue colour shown in some of these photos, the BRZ really does stand out as one sharp looking sports coupe.
The new BRZ is once again co-developed with Toyota, with the BRZ’s boxer engine strapped with the D4-S direct and port injection system from Toyota.
The new Subaru FA24 2.4-litre naturally aspirated boxer engine that powers the new BRZ represents an increase of 400cc over the current 2.0-litre flat four, with it producing an estimated 170kW of power and 249Nm of torque. The final figures will be confirmed closer to the BRZ’s production roll out in early 2021. Both a six-speed automatic and six-speed manual transmission will be offered.
The Subaru Global Platform that underpins the new BRZ has also adopted new construction method courtesy of Toyota’s input, with the new chassis delivering a 60 percent increase in front lateral bending rigidity and a 50 percent improvement in torsional stiffness compared to the superseded model. New manufacturing methods include inner frame construction and structural adhesive application, all designed to produce a stiffer body for sharper steering response, a more nimble handling and better traction in cornering.
According to Subaru, the use of aluminium for the roof, front guards and bonnet offsets the weight increase of the larger engine, while added structural enhancements improve collision safety and contribute to an optimised weight layout and lower centre of gravity.
New style 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels further reduce unsprung weight. They are wrapped in high performance Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres.
The new BRZ continues to ride on a four-wheel independent suspension system, with MacPherson-type struts, lower L-arms and coil springs at the front axle, and a double wishbone and coil springs set up at the rear.
On the inside, the new BRZ continues a driver-focused, low seating position design. The revamped dashboard features a minimalist, horizontal style instrument panel positioned low to provide a wider view for more focused driving. Replacing conventional gauges, the combination of a 7-inch digital display and a secondary segment digital display delivers a variety of driving information and performance statistics.
Also new is the 8-inch multimedia infotainment system, which now includes smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A pair of contoured sport seat with firm side bolsters also feature prominently in the updated cabin.
Full technical details of the all-new 2022 Subaru BRZ will be announced in 2021, along with the launch of sister car the Toyota 86.
Meanwhile, check out Subaru Motorsport rally car driver Scott Speed test drive the new BRZ at the Thunderhill Raceway Park in the video below.