First Drive: Redesigned 2022 Subaru BRZ Proves Nimble and Fun

This light, low-slung sports car balances handling and ride quality

Jeff S. Bartlett, Consumer Reports Managing Editor, Autos.

By Jeff S. Bartlett
Managing Editor, Autos

Published November 18, 2020·Updated December 30, 2022

Update: Since this first drive was originally published in October, 2021, we finished testing the Subaru BRZ. Read the complete Subaru BRZ road test.

The formula remains unchanged for the redesigned Subaru BRZ: It’s a small, nimble rear-drive coupe, powered by a flat-four boxer engine that is best defined by its handling chops. The interior is intimate, with a nominal back seat whose best purpose is to hold a helmet on the way to an autocross event.

At a time when the average new car now costs over $45,000, the BRZ shines as a relatively low-cost vehicle. Sure, it doesn’t boast big turbocharged horsepower figures or blazing-quick acceleration. But it has true sports-car agility and smile-inducing looks.

What we rented: 2022 Subaru BRZ Premium, Subaru BRZ Limited
Powertrain: 228-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine; six-speed manual and automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive
Base price: $27,995
Destination charge: $960
Price as driven: $28,995 Premium manual, $33,255 Limited automatic

Become a member to read the full article and get access to digital ratings.

We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.

Jeff S. Bartlett

Jeff S. Bartlett is the managing editor for the autos team at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2005. Previously, Jeff served as the online editorial director of Motor Trend for 11 years. Throughout his career, Jeff has driven thousands of cars, many on racetracks around the globe. Follow him on X: @JeffSBartlett