No turbo = no fun?
The Subaru BRZ has been completely redesigned for the 2022 model-year. It also features a new engine. It’s still aspirated, even though it is slightly stronger than the predecessor. Although we were hoping for a turbo unit, Subaru PR chief Dominick Inte explained recently that a turbocharged engine would cause the vehicle to have a lower center of gravity and a worse handling.
Although this statement from the company is understandable, we think many would be interested in a more detailed explanation as to why a naturally-aspirated engine is a good option for the new BRZ. Engineering Explained is the only person who can provide a deeper review of the 2.4-boxer engine. You can view the 15-minute channel video at the top of the page. It provides a deeper look into 2.4 boxer.
The specifications for the new BRZ are worth a closer look. The new 2.4-liter unit uses direct and port injection, unlike its predecessor, the 2.0-liter. This is in contrast to the Ascent SUV’s 2.4 turbo, which relies solely on direct injection.
The 2022 model has a larger displacement, which means a nice 11 percent increase in power output and an 18% increase in peak torque. The good news is that torque starts much earlier at 3,700 RPM than it did in the previous model’s 6,400 Rpm. Despite the increased power and torque, the model weighs in at 17 pounds (7.7 kgs) less than the BRZ.
However, wouldn’t a turbo-engine increase those numbers even more? Engineering Explained may have the answer to your question about why a turbocharged engine will not necessarily improve the vehicle’s performance.