With a host of strong upgrades, the next-generation Subaru BRZ is a performance powerhouse. Though mainly known for its utilitarian all-wheel-drive wagons, over the years, Subaru has produced a number of sport-oriented offerings. Among them are the WRX, first-generation BRZ, and even the SVX of the '90s.

While each model has its own high points — the WRX with its ample turbo power, the SVX with its futuristic design, and the first-gen BRZ with its lightweight package — none can match the package of styling, handling, and classic naturally-aspirated power contained in the newly released second generation Subaru 2022 BRZ.

Let's first briefly reflect on the first-gen BRZ and how the 2022 edition differs.

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A Brief History Of The Subaru BRZ

Subaru BRZ
Via: Nikonian Novice, Flickr - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/

The first-generation Subaru BRZ, released in 2012, was lauded for its light weight, excellent handling, and true sports car driving experience. It filled a gap in the market for a reasonably priced sports car for those who couldn’t afford something in the upper price ranges but still wanted a solid performance car. But the first-generation Subaru BRZ wasn’t without its drawbacks.

It suffered from an anemic 2.0-liter engine that was low on torque and was known for a flat spot in the middle of its powerband. And although the first-generation Subaru BRZ did have somewhat interesting sports car styling, it wasn’t very exciting.

But now, with the second generation 2022 Subaru BRZ, the car has been upgraded not only with relation to engine performance and handling, but it also receives a breathtaking exterior to compete with the best in the world.

The 2022 BRZ Has Horsepower To Match Its Handling

2022 Subaru BRZ Dashboard
Via: Subaru

With an all-new, larger, direct-injected Subaru Boxer engine, the 2022 BRZ finally has the power to go along with its racy performance in the turns. Now displacing 2.4-liters and offering healthy doses of 228 HP and 184 lb-ft of torque, the new BRZ powers out of corners and has the top end rush to scream down straightaways.

A signature aspect of the engine is the classic Subaru boxer growl. In a boxer design, pistons are horizontally opposed, firing back and forth at each other and producing an unmistakable engine note. With no turbochargers to muffle the firing of pistons, the 2022 Subaru BRZ engine is a study in classic sports car sound.

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It Has A Revised Chassis And Offers Rear-Wheel Drive

2022 Subaru BRZ Front Three Quarter
Via: Twitter

The top strength of the Subaru BRZ has always been its handling, with a layout of front MacPherson struts and a multilink setup in the rear. But for the 2022 edition, Subaru utilized new technologies to significantly improve chassis rigidity, allowing them to revise suspension settings for an even better experience in the twisties.

Using updated materials and adhesives, the car’s structure is now 60% stiffer, further enhancing its race-derived performance. All of these new settings were track-tested, with each setting being dialed in for the utmost in performance handling.

Rear-wheel drive is known as the standard among the finest performance cars in the world, and the 2022 Subaru BRZ is no different. Rear-wheel drive frees up the front wheels to steer the car into a corner and allows the rear to focus on traction and acceleration. Using this time-tested layout, the 2022 BRZ is a precise steering machine that powers out of corner exits.

The 2022 Subaru BRZ Has Ideal Weight Distribution

2022 Subaru BRZ
via Subaru

A key component of a car’s handling is its balance. This is affected greatly by its weight distribution from front to rear. A vehicle with too much weight-focused rearward will oversteer, kicking out the tail end when cornering hard.

A car with too much weight over the front wheels will understeer, pushing past the apex of a turn and possibly going off the road. A balanced car has neither understeer nor oversteer and adeptly handles any type of turn it encounters.

The 2022 Subaru BRZ has a nearly perfect 50/50 weight distribution for predictable, smooth handling through turns big and small, slow or fast.

Sleek Styling With A Look That Says Performance

2022 Subaru BRZ silver
Via: Subaru

Though the first-generation Subaru BRZ had a sporty look, something was missing. It didn’t have the chiseled features that top-end sports cars possess, and something about it just felt subpar in the styling department. However, the 2022 BRZ has aggressive, curvaceous looks that match its excellent sports performance. It all starts with a wide-open grille and air intakes up front, followed by a curvy silhouette as you go rearward.

The 2022 Subaru BRZ is leaps and bounds better than the previous generation introduced in 2012 and the best sports car Subaru produces by a wide margin. The total package of acceleration, handling, and styling makes for an excellent sports car that’s a bargain when compared with others on the market.

NEXT: Here's What We Expect From The 2022 Subaru WRX