Subaru stuck to basic formula here: The 2022 BRZ remains a rear-wheel drive sports coupe that’s supremely lightweight, adequately powered and attractive. Subaru debuts its new boxer four-cylinder in the BRZ. It’s rated at 223 hp and you need to rev all the way to 7,000 rpm to achieve that output. I’d prefer a bit more than the 184 lb-ft of torque the powerplant offers (reasonably low in the band at 3,700 rpm), for some more off-the-line grunt. Say 200 lb-ft, though it’s almost a cliche to argue the BRZ is underpowered.
The outgoing BRZ is one of the purest cars I’ve driven, so rather than harp on the power, which will ultimately be fine, give Subaru props for focusing on chassis improvements to improve rigidity by 60 percent and aid turn-in. Admirably, the curb weight is less than 2,900 pounds, and the manual in Premium trim checks in at the lowest, just 2,815 pounds.
Aesthetically, I like it. It’s busier than before, and there’s a lot more going on with the front fascia, wheel arches and fenders. There’s a bit of a Porsche vibe up front, which is good, and a bit of a Honda Civic vibe in back (think 2010) that’s not.
It’s impressive that Subaru resisted the urge to gratuitously power up the BRZ and remained focused on the essence of its goodness and appeal to enthusiasts.
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