• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Auto Trends Magazine

Car reviews, industry news, & advice.

You are here: Home / Specifications / What’s Next for the Subaru BRZ?

What’s Next for the Subaru BRZ?

October 8, 2019 by admin 3 Comments

Hot laps with a 2020 Subaru BRZ tS!

The BRZ has always been an outlier model for Subaru, a manufacturer best known for its fleet of all-wheel-drive models. The BRZ features a boxer engine and rear-wheel drive, and is twinned with the Toyota 86, which has also seen life as the Scion FR-S. There is some exterior detailing differences between the Subaru and the Toyota, along with separate suspension setups.

Launched in 2013, the current-generation Subaru BRZ is nearing the end of its life cycle and will likely be replaced or perhaps canceled. We’re leaning heavily toward the former as company officials (in particular, Toyota) have indicated a new 2+2 model is on the way. With this in mind, we’ve dug deep, researching the interwebs and drawing on knowledgeable sources for what we *think* is coming.

1. Not before 2021.

Speculation is rampant on the new BRZ and 86, especially when it will arrive in dealer showrooms. That information is sketchy, but we don’t see either model hitting the market before 2021. It wouldn’t surprise us if there is some separation between the arrival dates too, with perhaps Toyota hitting the market first (as they did with the Scion FR-S, followed by the Subaru BRZ).

2. Toyota’s platform instead of Subaru’s.

Besides featuring Subaru’s boxer engine, the twins also ride on a Subaru platform. The twins are also built at Subaru’s manufacturing plant in Gunma, Japan. The Subaru-centric arrangement has worked well, but we doubt it will continue. Instead, the next models will likely utilize the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform that underpins everything new Toyota is building these days — front-, rear-, four-, and all-wheel drive. This may mean the cars will be built at a Toyota facility, otherwise, expect Gunma to be overhauled to support the new products.

3. No turbo on the horizon.

Sadly, Toyota/Subaru fans are not likely to see a turbocharged variant anytime soon. That omission may be more of a disappointment for Toyota fans, than for Subaru. So, why no turbo? For a few reasons, including adding weight and changing the driving dynamics. The dynamic duo is designed to operate just as they are, by offering an ideal blend of performance, drive, and handling. A turbo would mess with those characteristics as well as raise the price of the vehicle beyond its intended target: young buyers with a passion for driving, especially those who don’t want heavy coupes such as the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and the Dodge Challenger.

4. All-wheel drive is not on the docket.

Just as some people want a turbo, others want all-wheel drive. After all, if you’ve driven any new Subaru over the past 20 years, you expect it. Just as a turbo would add weight and change the driving characteristics, the all-wheel drive would do likewise. So, keep your asterisk (*) with your denotation that Subaru has an all-wheel-drive fleet.

5. Boxer engine and transmission choices.

Although a platform change seems likely, we are absolutely certain Subaru’s BOXER engine (horizontally opposed cylinders) will live on. It has worked well so far and is a distinction that makes these two models fun to drive. The engine sits low and back in the engine bay, which enhances drivability. Likely, it will be the same 2.0-liter engine currently used, perhaps updated to push out slightly more power without losing efficiency. Toyota’s in-house-developed 6-speed manual is also likely to continue as is Aisin’s six-speed automatic. A limited-slip differential and multiple drive modes will remain.

6. The last hurrah.

The 2020 BRZ is on the market and it may be the last model year for this first-generation model. This year, the BRZ tS makes its return, a limited-run package with just 300 units offered. It features a special suspension system upgrade with STI-tuned front and rear SACHS dampers and coil springs along with a pliable V-brace in the engine bay. For improved steering response, Subaru adds draw stiffeners to the chassis and sub-frame. Brembo four-piston calipers and rotors are up front, while the rear has dual-piston calipers. The tS comes in one color only: Ceramic White and it rides on Michelin Pilot Sport tires. Other modifications include a low-profile rear spoiler, grille and rear bumper accents in Cherry Blossom Red, and black accents on the mirrors along with red accents inside. Subaru prices the BRZ tS at $31,495, plus destination.

Subaru Performance

Along with WRX and WRX STI, the BRZ underscores Subaru’s performance chops. The two model lines are quite different, but both coupes fulfill their purpose and give enthusiasts much of what they want from this niche manufacturer.


2020 Subaru BRZ Specifications


Subaru 2020 BRZ
Segment Compact sports car
Price Range $28,845 to $31,495
Destination Charge $900
Standard Engine 2.0-liter, I4
Horsepower 205 @ 7,000
Torque (lb.-ft.) 156 @ 6,400
Transmission 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
Seating 4
Curb Weight (pounds) 2,798 to 2,840
Wheelbase (inches) 101.2
Length (inches) 166.7
Width (inches) 69.9
Height (inches) 52.0
Headroom (f,r…inches) 37.1, 35.0
Legroom (f,r…inches) 41.9, 29.9
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 54.5, 51.7
Hip room (f,r…inches) 53.1, 45.3
Storage (cubic feet) 6.9
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel Premium
Fuel Tank (gallons) 13.2
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) 21/29/24 (6MT), 24/33/27 (AT)
Manufacturing Plant Gunma, Japan

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.


See Also — Scion FR-S: Attainable Fun!

Photo copyright Subaru Motors.

Filed Under: Specifications Tagged With: boxer engine, limited slip differential, rear-wheel drive, SCION FR-S, Subaru, SUBARU BRZ, Toyota, TOYOTA 86

About admin

Matt Keegan has maintained his love for cars ever since his father taught him kicking tires can be one way to uncover a problem with a vehicle’s suspension system. He since moved on to learn a few things about coefficient of drag, G-forces, toe-heel shifting, and how to work the crazy infotainment system in some random weekly driver. Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources.

Reader Interactions

Trackbacks

  1. These Car Models May Soon Get the Axe — Auto Trends Magazine says:
    October 9, 2019 at 12:18 pm

    […] c. We doubt the Toyota 86 (-41.71%) will survive for much longer, although the nearly identical Subaru BRZ may soldier on. As for the full-size Avalon (+6.38%), it is also all new and gaining market share […]

    Log in to Reply
  2. All-Wheel Drive Edge: 2017 Subaru Legacy — Auto Trends Magazine says:
    October 9, 2019 at 12:26 pm

    […] manufacturer continues with its near-universal standard all-wheel-drive fleet (the rear-wheel-drive Subaru BRZ is the lone exception), an edge no other mainstream manufacturer can […]

    Log in to Reply
  3. Subaru Outback: Where Value and Safety Intersect — Auto Trends Magazine says:
    October 9, 2019 at 12:48 pm

    […] best suited for spirited driving. All-wheel drive is standard across the Subaru line (except in the BRZ) as this system sends power to the wheels that need it most. Indeed, torque steer is not simply […]

    Log in to Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II
  • New Duck-Billed Post Office Trucks Has Some People Quacking
  • Vroom! Lexus Reveals the IS 500 F Sport.
  • Introducing the Kia Carnival MPV
  • Goodyear, Cooper Tire to Join Forces

Recent Comments

  • About the Fox-Body Ford Mustang — Auto Trends Magazine on Top Down Steed: Ford Mustang GT Premium Convertible
  • About the Fox-Body Ford Mustang — Auto Trends Magazine on A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II
  • 5 Forgettable Cars From the 1970s — Auto Trends Magazine on A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II
  • A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II — Auto Trends Magazine on Book Review: Mustang by Design
  • New Duck-Billed Post Office Trucks Has Some People Quacking — Auto Trends Magazine on Postal Service Teases Us With Muscle Car Stamps

Archives

  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • September 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • December 2011
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • October 2010
  • September 2010
  • August 2010
  • July 2010
  • June 2010
  • May 2010
  • April 2010
  • March 2010
  • February 2010
  • January 2010
  • December 2009
  • November 2009
  • October 2009
  • September 2009
  • August 2009
  • July 2009
  • June 2009
  • May 2009
  • April 2009
  • March 2009
  • February 2009
  • January 2009
  • December 2008
  • November 2008
  • October 2008
  • September 2008
  • August 2008
  • July 2008
  • June 2008
  • May 2008
  • April 2008

Categories

  • Auto Parts
  • Auto Shows
  • Automotive Career
  • Automotive News
  • Book Reviews
  • Car Tips
  • Classics & Discontinued Models
  • Commentary
  • Commercial Vehicles
  • Concept Vehicles
  • Dealers
  • Engineering & Technology
  • Fleet
  • Fun News
  • Maintenance & Repairs
  • Motorsport
  • New Models
  • New Vehicle Reviews
  • Ownership Experience
  • Product Reviews
  • Special
  • Specifications

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

New!
Check out our Jobs Board!

via GIPHY

Subscribe to Auto Trends

Subscribe in a reader

Social Media

Visit our social media pages:
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Pinterest

Where is Matt Currently Published?

The Carolinian (new car reviews)
NAPA Know How Blog
On the Road Again

Pages

  • About
  • Authors List
  • Automotive Brochures
  • Contact
  • Industry Jobs
  • Write
    • Style Guide

Categories

Recent Posts

  • A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II
  • New Duck-Billed Post Office Trucks Has Some People Quacking
  • Vroom! Lexus Reveals the IS 500 F Sport.
  • Introducing the Kia Carnival MPV
  • Goodyear, Cooper Tire to Join Forces
  • Highlights of the 2021 Nissan Rogue
  • 7 Facts About the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt
  • Introducing the All-New
    2022 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV
  • What’s the Future for Chrysler and Dodge Under Stellantis?
  • All About Sobriety Checkpoints
  • Plug It In: Toyota RAV4 Prime
  • About the Volkswagen Taos
  • All-Wheel Drive Finally Comes to the Toyota Camry and We Like It!
  • Growing EV Industry Leaves Countries and Businesses Racing to Meet Increasing Lithium Demand
  • Introducing the All-New 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Crossover SUV
  • At Last! The All-New 2022 Nissan Frontier Revealed.
  • In Photos: 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor!
  • Cadillac V-Series Blackwing Preview!
  • Cost-Effective Crossover: Nissan Kicks
  • 10 Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Car
  • All-New Acura TLX Takes Charge
  • The Golden Years: 6 Memorable Models From the Original Era of Muscle Cars
  • From Datsun to Nissan: 40th Anniversary of the Maxima Sedan
  • The Mazda CX-5 Brings a Premium Touch to the Compact Crossover Utility Vehicle Segment
  • 4 Car Upholstery Cleaning Tips
  • The 14 Brands of Stellantis
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • The All-New and Formidable 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • Fuel-Efficiency and AWD Champion: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  • Midsize Performance Master: 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line
  • Performance Hatchback: The All-New 2021 Mazda Mazda3 Turbo!
  • NACTOY Finalists For 2021 Offer Familiar and Futuristic Choices
  • Super Trooper: Nissan Titan Pickup
  • Behind the Wheel of the Popular 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan
  • Lucid Motors Completes Arizona Factory
  • A Robust Turbodiesel Comes to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Mid-Engine Masterpiece: The Eighth-Generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
  • Compact Performance:
    2021 Cadillac CT4-V
  • All-Wheel Drive Supplies the Nissan Altima With a Competitive Edge
  • Return of the Toyota Venza!
  • Lexus Brings a Convertible to the Gorgeous LC 500 Line
  • Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Preview: 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • How to Fix a Broken Rivian Vehicle
  • Cadillac Gets Most Things Right
    With the XT6 Crossover
  • The High Potency Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Coupe
October 2019
S M T W T F S
 12345
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
2728293031  
« Sep   Nov »

Copyright © 2021 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in