Subaru announces the debut of the next-generation BRZ at the Thermal Club Raceway in Thermal, California.
Pure Sports Car with Subaru DNA
The all-new Subaru BRZ is a driving machine laid out in a 2+2 coupe platform with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration. Its foundation is built on an all-new chassis with increased rigidity and an ultra-low centre of gravity. It owns an extremely light curb weight, estimated at just 1,277 kilograms (2,815 lbs.) and a widened wheelbase of 2,575 millimetres (101.4 in).
The front suspension uses struts and coil springs to keep weight low. The chassis has gained rigidity through a reinforced chassis mounting system, sub-frame architecture and other connection points. Front lateral bending rigidity has been increased by 60 percent for the 2022 model to improve turn-in and response. The MacPherson strut front suspension features custom-designed struts to optimize the low hood line while retaining a long stroke. The multi-link rear suspension system provides bump absorption.
The standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) stability and traction system offer the driver five different settings. The system has been redesigned to allow more input from the driver before it activates the traction control system. The system can be turned off completely to put the driver in full control.
Then comes the growl of the all-new, larger 2.4L SUBARU BOXER engine. The naturally aspirated, direct and port-injected powerplant produces 228 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 184 lb-ft of torque. This gets paired with a choice of two transmissions. The first is a close-ratio 6-speed manual and the second, a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters and downshift blip control for even more precision.
Designed
The design is slightly longer and lower than its predecessor, resulting in a low and wide frontal area set off by large air intakes. The grille is set low and is capped by arches that allow just enough room for suspension points.
The functional side vent reduces drag by ducting air from under the hood and fenders. The released air is directed to a side sill spoiler that creates downforce at speed. A small fin at the back of the rear-wheel arch also assists in airflow adding stability. At the back of the car, the large rear fenders and wider track flow into dual exhausts for a low and wide look.
Interior
The BRZ’s seating position is low but features good sightlines due to the use of high-strength steel in the A, B and C -pillars.
A new customizable 7-inch digital dashboard highlights a center-mounted tachometer with a configurable display that provides the driver with relevant information about their drive and vehicle. The programmable meter can change to show amps, water temperature or a g-force meter. When the BRZ is placed in track mode, the tachometer automatically shifts to a linear graph with a colour display that allows for quick reads so the driver can focus on the road.
Safety Never Compromised
Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology has been added to the new BRZ. Acting like an extra set of eyes, EyeSight uses two cameras to monitor activity on the road and helps identify potentially hazardous situations. This suite of safety technology includes features like Automatic Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, Lane-keep Assist and more.
Convenience
A new 8-inch infotainment touch-screen takes place in the center console. It features technologies such as standard smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, rearview camera and SiriusXM satellite radio. The all-new BRZ is available with SUBARU STARLINK Connected Services. Using the nationwide cellular network, separate from customers’ mobile devices, Connected Services allows customers to stay connected to their vehicle, while also allowing them to receive information to keep them safe.
Integrated directly into the vehicle, the system uses voice-response technology with the addition of live assistance for features such as Advanced Automatic Collision Notification in the event of a collision, SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance and Concierge Service.
Customers can also receive automatic emergency assistance in the event of a collision, schedule service appointments, start their engine remotely (automatic transmission models), adjust climate control, remotely lock and unlock the doors, remotely locate their vehicle, as well as get vehicle alerts such as speed, boundary or curfew alerts, all controlled directly from customers’ smart devices.
The 2022 BRZ will be offered in two well-equipped trims levels, each with an option for manual or automatic transmissions.
