2022 Subaru BRZ Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

If you desire a budget-friendly sports car, few models are better than the 2022 Subaru BRZ. This coupe’s tight handling and improved power ensure a fun driving experience. While the BRZ is great for daily commuting, it’s also a highly recommended option for amateur racers. Let’s find out if you should head out to buy a new BRZ.

What’s New for 2022?

The Subaru BRZ has been redesigned from the inside out. It brings more technology and a more potent engine.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Subaru BRZ – The Pros

1. Reasonably-Priced Sports Car

Some sports cars are simply too expensive for the average consumer. The 2022 Subaru is a fine choice for folks on a budget. Driving enthusiasts can have a ton of fun without breaking the bank. Subaru lists the new BRZ with a starting MSRP of around $28,000. Even a fully loaded BRZ is still far more attainable than the typical European sports car. Owners will also appreciate this coupe’s low cost of maintenance. Tune-ups and oil changes will be affordable.

2. Packs More Muscle Under the Hood

In terms of performance, many people considered the previous-generation BRZ to be a bit weak. Subaru has addressed this issue by updating the 2022 model with a new engine. Its larger four-cylinder engine develops a more fulfilling 228 horsepower. Drivers will especially appreciate this engine’s 15 percent increase in torque, which makes the car feel more responsive around town. With an estimated 0-60 mph time of 6.0 seconds, the new BRZ is definitely a few ticks quicker than before.

3. Great-Handling Sports Car

The BRZ was already known for its surefooted handling. However, drivers can expect the new model to feel even more composed. A lowered stance helps this coupe to remain extremely balanced when taking curves. Subaru equips the BRZ with a standard limited-slip differential, which further aids the car’s cornering capabilities. Both trims also come equipped with a track-tuned suspension for enhanced handling. While the BRZ isn’t a luxury vehicle, its ride comfort proves to be quite good for a sports coupe.

4. A Good-Looking Sports Car

Subaru didn’t drastically change the BRZ’s exterior styling. However, the 2022 Subaru BRZ does have a more aggressive appearance. Wider air intakes and modern LED headlights help the front fascia to stand out. On the rear, racy exhaust finishers add another sporty touch. In terms of overall styling, there’s not a drastic difference between the available trims. However, a larger set of 18-inch wheels give the Limited trim a bolder stance. Some hot paint colors are also available, including Ignition Red and Sapphire Blue Pearl.

5. Still Offers a Manual Transmission

Some of today’s latest sports cars no longer offer a traditional manual transmission. Fortunately, that’s not the case for the new 2022 Subaru BRZ. It comes standard with a precise, six-speed manual gearbox. While the BRZ’s available six-speed automatic transmission is smooth, it does force drives to give up some performance. Manual-equipped BRZ models clock a quicker 0-60 mph time. Drivers who plan to hit the track will especially prefer the BRZ’s stick-shift transmission.

6. Improved Interior Design

When comparing the 2022 Subaru BRZ to the previous generation, drivers will immediately notice the new model’s nicer cabin. Premium-looking interior controls and materials help the BRZ to feel more upscale. Subaru has also taken the BRZ’s comfort to the next stage. Car reviewers praise the coupe’s new front seats, which provide just the right blend of support and bolstering. Taller drivers will appreciate the new model’s extra headroom. While dual-zone automatic climate control comes standard, heated front seats come equipped on the BRZ Limited.

7. Technology That’s Easy to Use

Many people will enjoy the new BRZ’s more impressive list of in-vehicle technologies. For the first time, Subaru equips the BRZ with a digital gauge cluster that uses a 7.0-inch display. It’s easy to view essential driving information while on the road. An easy-to-operate Starlink infotainment system also comes standard on every new BRZ. It features an 8.0-inch touch display. Drivers can plug in their smartphones through either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. USB ports are located in the center console.

8. Advanced Safety Features Are Now Available

The previous BRZ didn’t offer many advanced safety features. Luckily, there are now several high-tech driving aids available for the 2022 Subaru BRZ. Models equipped with an automatic transmission receive Subaru’s EyeSight safety system. It brings automatic emergency braking, smart cruise control, and lane departure alert. A few more active safety features are found on the Limited trim. While blind-spot monitoring helps drivers to change lanes with greater confidence, adaptive headlights enhance visibility around corners.

9. Driver-Focused Cockpit

The BRZ’s driver-focused cockpit allows everyone to experience a sense of control. Drivers won’t be distracted by any unnecessary features. A sporty gear shifter and metal pedals make the BRZ feel like a traditional sports car. To help you obtain the ideal driving position, Subaru equips the car with a tilt/telescoping steering wheel.

10. Great Track Car for Beginners

The BRZ has become a big hit on the amateur racing scene. This rear-wheel-drive coupe is perfect for weekend track events. Not only is the BRZ reliable, but it also won’t break your budget. When folding down the rear seats, there’s just enough space to accommodate an extra set of racing tires and a toolbox.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Subaru BRZ – The Cons

1. Not the Best Car for Winter Driving

Some people can drive the BRZ throughout the year. Unfortunately, this isn’t the best car for winter commuting. The BRZ’s low ground clearance and rear-wheel-drive layout limit its ability to handle the snow. Folks who need a year-round sports car should consider the four-door Subaru WRX. It comes standard with a full-time AWD system.

2. Cramped Backseat

Parents who have small children can benefit from the BRZ’s backseat. However, teens and adults will not be able to comfortably fit in the rear. There’s simply not enough legroom for most people. In most instances, the car’s backseat is best used to store extra cargo.

3. Fuel Economy Has Decreased

The 2022 Subaru BRZ isn’t a fuel hog. Nevertheless, overall fuel economy has taken a dip. This coupe’s larger and more powerful engine consumes more gas. Models fitted with a manual gearbox return an EPA-calculated 20 mpg town/27 mpg freeway. Opting for the BRZ’s automatic transmission boosts fuel economy to 21 mpg town/30 mpg freeway. On the bright side, some testers have actually bested the EPA’s fuel economy ratings.

4. Still Not Fast Enough for Some Drivers

There’s no overlooking the new BRZ’s more responsive performance. However, it still may not be fast enough for some sports car fans. The BRZ won’t be able to keep pace with a Porsche Boxster. Drivers who yearn for more muscle should prepare to buy a more expensive model.

5. No Premium Sound System

A decent eight-speaker stereo comes standard on the 2022 Subaru BRZ. Unfortunately, a premium audio system is not on the BRZ’s list of options. This fact will disappoint music fans who desire a more exciting sound.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Subaru BRZ vs 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata

When searching for an economical sports car, many people will be picking between the 2022 Subaru BRZ and the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata. While the MX-5 Miata roadster packs just as much performance as the BRZ, it does not offer a backseat. This means parents can’t bring along their kids. A smaller trunk also makes the MX-5 Miata less practical. Although the MX-5 Miata does offer a hardtop RF model, it has a steeper MSRP.

2022 Subaru BRZ vs 2022 Chevrolet Camaro

Improved handling makes the Chevrolet Camaro a great alternative to the BRZ. Some drivers will enjoy the Camaro’s extra muscle under the hood. However, the Camaro’s large blind spots can cause drivers to experience poor rear visibility. A lighter design gives the BRZ yet another advantage.

2022 Subaru BRZ vs 2022 Toyota GR Supra

The Toyota GR Supra is an extremely capable sports car. It gives buyers two formidable engines to choose from. However, car shoppers can save thousands of dollars by choosing the new Subaru BRZ. A manual transmission is also not offered on the GR Supra, which could turn away some driving purists.

Conclusion

Some experts rank the 2022 Subaru BRZ as the top sports car you can buy for less than $30,000. An elevated level of performance and an improved interior make the 2022 model an even better bang for the buck. The arrival of new safety technologies gives you more reason to buy a new BRZ. While the range-topping Limited trim provides a few more luxuries, most buyers will be pleased with what the entry-level Premium trim brings to the table.

Before driving home a new BRZ, be aware of this car’s potential weak points. For starters, there’s not a lot of space in the backseat. High-end features, such as ventilated seat cushions and a premium sound system, are not offered.