There aren’t many cars on the market today that follow the classic cheap, fun sports car formula. If you want rear-wheel drive, a short-throw stick, and stoplight-to-stoplight fun without paying luxury prices, you’re limited in your choices. But it’s not all bad news. One of the best choices just got less expensive.
The 2022 Subaru BRZ will start at $27,995 (plus a $960 destination fee, $1,100 in Alaska). That’s down from $28,845 for the 2020 model currently sitting in showrooms (Subaru didn’t build a 2021 version).
A Lower Price for an Improved Car
The price drop comes despite a wheels-up redesign that makes the 2022 BRZ both more powerful and more agile than the car it’s replacing. A new, 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder boxer engine makes 228 horsepower – up from 205 in the outgoing car. But it’s the handling that has really evolved. With a chassis that is 50% stiffer than the former model, redesigned suspension with a nimble multilink rear setup, and more responsive steering, it promises to be considerably more fun on a twisty road. We haven’t had the chance to test it ourselves yet but will report back when we do.
The 2022 BRZ will come in two trim levels – Premium and Limited. Both are well-equipped and include well-bolstered sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an 8-inch touchscreen controlling climate and infortainment functions.
Still Charging for Safety Features
Unfortunately, buyers have to step up to the costlier Limited model to get the full suite of safety features. It comes with blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert, as well as a grippier set of summer tires. Buyers who add the optional 6-speed automatic transmission get reverse automatic braking and Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology as well.
The 2022 BRZ is a compelling option for shoppers looking for the classic 2+2 sports car. We’re still waiting to see pricing on its near-twin, the 2022 Toyota GR 86. You can get a similar neighborhood-fun experience from the Mazda MX-5 if a convertible is an option where you live.
2022 BRZ pricing:
- BRZ Premium with 6-Speed Manual Transmission: $27,995
- BRZ Premium with 6-Speed Automatic Transmission: $29,595
- BRZ Limited with 6-Speed Manual Transmission: $30,495
- BRZ Limited with 6-Speed Automatic Transmission: $32,295
