Update: 20/04/2022, 8:04 p.m: The Drive has received clarification from Subaru that speed sensing wipers are an option for the 2023 BRZ, however, they were not newly introduced for the current model year.
The latest iteration of the Subaru BRZ, alongside its Toyota GR86 counterpart, has garnered substantial acclaim since its debut last year. Enhancing the power output while preserving its delightful handling characteristics was a guaranteed strategy to captivate enthusiasts. The pricing details for the 2023 BRZ have now been revealed, as outlined by Motor1.
The manual transmission variants have incurred a $660 increase in price for the upcoming model year, whereas vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions have seen a $560 uptick in pricing. In both scenarios, the $60 augmentation in cost can be attributed to the destination fee, now at $1020, up from the previous $960.
With the revised pricing structure, the base BRZ Premium will commence at $29,615 for the six-speed manual, rising to $31,115 for the six-speed automatic. On the other hand, the higher-tier BRZ Limited now initiates at $32,115 for the manual and $33,815 for the automatic.
The 2023 model retains the same 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, boasting 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Although this may not seem like a significant leap from the previous 197 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque offered by the 2.0-liter engine in the first-generation model, the slight enhancement in power and torque, coupled with the elimination of the notorious torque dip from the older model, substantially contributes to enlivening the driving experience.
The 2023 version is now equipped with variable intermittent windshield wipers throughout the lineup. Particularly noteworthy is the inclusion of a “novel speed-sensing mist feature” that is sure to excite enthusiasts of innovative wiper technology. The Drive has contacted Subaru for additional information on the wipers and will provide updates accordingly.
Automatic transmission models benefit from Subaru’s EyeSight system, encompassing adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking functionalities. Furthermore, LED headlights are standard across the board. Notably, even the basic trim is outfitted with a Torsen rear differential as standard.
Opting for the Limited trim introduces 18-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4s, contrasting with the 17-inch alloys on the base model. Additionally, heated exterior mirrors and two supplementary speakers in the audio system are included. The Limited trim also integrates extra driver-assist features such as rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, and lane-keeping assist.
Primarily, the only notable additions for 2023 are the advanced wipers and, as stated by Subaru, “new adaptive control and steering wheel paddle-shift control switches” for models equipped with automatic transmissions. Consequently, a significant portion of the price increase is likely attributed to inflation and rising supply chain costs, rather than covering the expense of new features.
Nevertheless, the Subaru BRZ, in tandem with its Toyota counterpart, appears to be a vehicle that continues to improve with each incremental update—albeit possibly the most minimal thus far. While Subaru may still be withholding the long-awaited turbocharged model that some enthusiasts envision, the BRZ remains steadfast in its commitment to being an economical, accessible sports car that consistently delivers.
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