BRZ Changes to Be Announced at Subiefest California

Though the BRZ was redesigned for 2022, Subaru has announced that they will debut a “sharper and more focused” version of the BRZ at the Subiefest in Arcadia, California, on July 23, 2023. We can only speculate until then as to what the changes will be. When the announcement comes, Subaru of Rochester will be sure to inform you about it.

Probably Not a Turbocharger

The BRZ is a classic light sports car seating just two with a front engine and rear drive. Its focus is on agility, tossibility, and just plain fun. The 228-horsepower 2.4-liter boxer engine is a good match for the chassis. Many point out that there already is a turbocharged version of the 2.4-liter engine in the WRX that produces 271 horsepower, which might be an obvious performance upgrade for the BRZ.

It could happen, but the changes are more likely elsewhere as the WRX engine would significantly change the BRZ’s nature. Gone would be the linear throttle response, and the light reflexes may be hampered by the necessary beefing up of the transmission and other drivetrain components to handle the power. 

EyeSight with a Manual Transmission?

It is known that Subaru would like to be able to apply its critically acclaimed EyeSight safety and driver assistance feature set to its manual transmission vehicles. While that may be a possibility, it doesn’t really say “sharper and more focused”. Still, it may be part of the overall changes.

Possible Performance Package

The best bet is a package or model trim with a focus on improving the BRZ’s already impressive handling. High-performance dampers, Brembo brakes, and other chassis upgrades certainly fall in with the “sharper and more focused” claim, and there currently is such a package on the BRZ twin, the Toyota GR86. 

Subaru and sports car fans only need to wait until Sunday, July 23rd, to find out. In the meantime, rediscover the pure driving experience of a pure light sports car with a test drive of the BRZ at Subaru of Rochester.