The Next Generation Subaru BRZ Could Be the Most Exciting BRZ Yet
The next generation Subaru BRZ is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated performance cars among driving enthusiasts. While Subaru has not officially revealed the next version of its lightweight sports coupe, recent comments from company executives suggest the future BRZ is far from being an ordinary refresh.
Instead, Subaru appears to be doubling down on performance. The automaker has established a dedicated Sports Vehicle Planning Office inside its newly created Product Innovation Division—a move designed specifically to accelerate development of enthusiast-focused vehicles.
Even more importantly, Subaru executives have confirmed that one of three upcoming STI-engineered vehicles will be a more performance-focused BRZ equipped with a manual transmission. Although Subaru has not released final specifications, this announcement offers the clearest indication yet that the BRZ’s future remains bright.
For sports car fans worried about electrification replacing engaging driving experiences, Subaru’s latest strategy offers reassuring news.
Why Subaru Created a Dedicated Sports Vehicle Planning Office
Performance vehicles have always occupied a unique place within Subaru’s lineup.
Models like the WRX, WRX STI, and BRZ helped establish Subaru as a brand capable of building practical all-wheel-drive vehicles while also delivering exciting sports cars.
Recognizing that enthusiast models remain valuable, Subaru recently reorganized part of its engineering operations.
The newly formed Product Innovation Division now includes a specialized Sports Vehicle Planning Office dedicated exclusively to performance vehicle development.
Chief Technical Officer Tetsuo Fujinuki explained that the company wanted to move away from slow, traditional development processes.
“We’ve created a Product Innovation Headquarters and established a Sports Vehicle Planning Office specializing in sports models. We decided to abandon the old way of doing things.”
This organizational shift isn’t simply about changing departments. It represents Subaru’s effort to speed up engineering while giving performance teams greater freedom to innovate.
What We Know About the Next Generation Subaru BRZ
Although Subaru has not officially unveiled the next generation Subaru BRZ, executives have already confirmed several important details.
1. STI Engineering Will Play a Bigger Role
Perhaps the biggest revelation is that Subaru is actively developing a higher-performance BRZ engineered with STI expertise.
This does not necessarily mean a return of the traditional BRZ STI sold in limited markets years ago.
Instead, enthusiasts should expect:
- More aggressive chassis tuning
- Enhanced suspension calibration
- Improved handling dynamics
- Additional aerodynamic improvements
- Potential engine performance enhancements
Subaru appears focused on making the BRZ even sharper rather than transforming it into an entirely different car.
2. Manual Transmission Isn’t Going Anywhere
One of the most encouraging announcements is Subaru’s commitment to manual gearboxes.
According to Fujinuki, all three upcoming STI-engineered models—including the BRZ—will feature manual transmissions.
That decision stands out in today’s automotive industry.
Many manufacturers have discontinued manual transmissions entirely as automatic and dual-clutch gearboxes dominate sales.
Subaru, however, understands that driving engagement remains one of the BRZ’s greatest strengths.
Keeping a manual transmission reinforces the company’s commitment to enthusiast buyers.
3. Digital Engineering Could Transform Development
Another major change involves Subaru’s engineering process itself.
Instead of relying primarily on traditional prototype development, Subaru has embraced digital vehicle engineering.
Fujinuki explained:
“We tried developing performance cars entirely digitally. As a result, our development speed increased, and we were able to do more daring things.”
This could benefit the next generation Subaru BRZ in several ways:
- Faster chassis optimization
- Improved suspension simulations
- Earlier aerodynamic validation
- Reduced development costs
- More opportunities to test performance concepts
Digital engineering allows engineers to experiment with more configurations before building physical prototypes.
Expected Performance Improvements
While official specifications remain unavailable, Subaru’s direction provides clues about where improvements may appear.
Sharper Handling
The BRZ has long been praised for its balanced chassis.
Future STI engineering could further improve:
- Steering response
- Cornering stability
- Suspension precision
- Body control
- Track capability
Improved Power Delivery
The current BRZ’s naturally aspirated 2.4-liter boxer engine already addressed many criticisms aimed at the previous generation.
The next evolution may focus on:
- Enhanced throttle response
- Revised ECU calibration
- Improved torque delivery
- Higher performance tuning
Subaru has not confirmed horsepower figures.
Will the Next Generation Subaru BRZ Become a True STI?
That remains one of the biggest questions.
Subaru has confirmed an STI-engineered BRZ—not necessarily a BRZ STI carrying the iconic badge.
The distinction matters.
An STI-engineered model may receive:
- Performance suspension
- STI chassis tuning
- Aerodynamic upgrades
- Performance brakes
- Unique wheels
- Sportier interior details
Whether Subaru revives the full STI branding remains uncertain.
How the BRZ Fits Subaru’s Broader Strategy
The BRZ represents more than just another sports coupe.
It serves as a halo vehicle that reinforces Subaru’s enthusiast image.
Executives have made it clear that mainstream vehicles—including the Forester and Outback—will continue driving sales.
However, performance models remain an essential part of Subaru’s identity.
The creation of a dedicated planning office suggests Subaru intends to continue investing in sports cars despite shifting market trends.
Electrification Doesn’t Mean the End of Driving Fun
Subaru also confirmed that electrified performance vehicles are under consideration.
No technical details have been announced.
Still, future technologies could include:
- Hybrid performance systems
- Electric torque assistance
- Improved acceleration
- Better efficiency without sacrificing handling
Importantly, Subaru has not indicated that electrification will replace enthusiast-focused driving.
Instead, executives suggest technology will support performance rather than eliminate it.
How the Next Generation Subaru BRZ Could Compare to Rivals
| Model | Strength | Potential BRZ Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota GR86 | Lightweight handling | Potential STI chassis upgrades |
| Mazda MX-5 Miata | Convertible driving experience | Greater practicality and power |
| Nissan Z | Turbocharged performance | Lower weight and balanced handling |
| Honda Civic Type R | Front-wheel-drive precision | Rear-wheel-drive sports car dynamics |
What Enthusiasts Want Subaru to Improve
Community discussions frequently mention several wishlist items for the next generation Subaru BRZ:
- More horsepower
- Enhanced suspension tuning
- Improved braking performance
- Lighter overall weight
- Additional STI accessories
- Better cooling for track driving
- Updated interior technology
- Improved driver assistance systems without compromising engagement
Subaru’s new engineering approach may make more of these requests achievable.
Why Digital Development Could Be a Game Changer
Automotive development has traditionally required years of prototype testing.
Digital engineering dramatically changes that equation.
Engineers can now simulate:
- Suspension movement
- Chassis rigidity
- Aerodynamics
- Thermal performance
- Vehicle dynamics
- Crash behavior
For the next generation Subaru BRZ, this means Subaru can refine more components before building physical vehicles, potentially delivering a more polished sports coupe at launch.
Should Buyers Wait for the Next Generation Subaru BRZ?
The answer depends on priorities.
If buyers want an engaging rear-wheel-drive sports coupe today, the current BRZ remains one of the best affordable driver’s cars available.
However, those interested in STI-inspired upgrades, more advanced engineering, and possible performance improvements may find the upcoming model worth waiting for.
While Subaru has yet to announce launch timing, recent executive comments strongly suggest development is progressing.
Final Thoughts
The next generation Subaru BRZ appears poised to build upon everything enthusiasts already appreciate about Subaru’s lightweight sports coupe.
Rather than abandoning performance during the industry’s transition toward electrification, Subaru is investing more heavily in enthusiast vehicles.
The establishment of the Sports Vehicle Planning Office, the commitment to manual transmissions, expanded STI engineering involvement, and faster digital development all point toward a promising future.
Although many details remain under wraps, Subaru’s strategy indicates that driving enjoyment will remain central to the BRZ’s identity.
For enthusiasts seeking an affordable, engaging sports coupe, the future looks brighter than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the next generation Subaru BRZ have a manual transmission?
Yes. Subaru executives have confirmed that the upcoming STI-engineered BRZ will feature a manual transmission, reinforcing the company’s commitment to enthusiast drivers.
Will the next generation Subaru BRZ become a full STI model?
Subaru has confirmed an STI-engineered BRZ but has not announced whether it will carry the official STI badge.
Will the next generation Subaru BRZ have more horsepower?
Official power figures have not been released. However, Subaru has indicated that the future BRZ will receive additional performance-focused engineering.
Is Subaru developing electrified performance cars?
Yes. Subaru has confirmed it is exploring electrified performance vehicles, although technical details remain undisclosed.
Why did Subaru create a Sports Vehicle Planning Office?
The new office is intended to accelerate performance vehicle development, improve engineering efficiency through digital tools, and deliver more ambitious sports cars.
