MSRP: $29,595 Fuel Economy 21 city / 30 highway / 25 combined Fuel Capacity 13.2 gal. Horsepower: 228 hp @ 7,000 rpm Torque 184 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm Engine: DOHC 4-cyl. 2.4-liter BOXER engine Curb weight: 2,864 lbs Transmission: 6-speed automatic Dimensions: 168″ L x 70″ W x 52″ H What’s New • High-performance 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine with 228 horsepower and 15-percent increase in torque over first-generation BRZ’s 2.0-liter engine • Premium and Limited trims offered in standard 6-speed manual transmission or available 6- speed Electronic Direct Control Automatic with paddle shift controls • EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with Adaptive Cruise Control and High Beam Assist featured on models equipped with 6-speed automatic transmission • Limited equipped with 215/40 R18 85Y Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer performance tires • Aerodynamically enhanced body design with undercover insulator, front fender air outlet, body color rocker spoiler and integrated trunk spoiler • Roofline features a subtle “double bubble” appearance, a nod to vintage racing cars • Chassis design elements from the Subaru Global Platform give the new BRZ’s structure a 50-percent increase in torsional stiffness • A lower center of gravity than the first-gen model • Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) traction and stability system offers five different settings • All-new driver-focused interior with customizable 7-inch digital instrument panel • New SUBARU STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Plus system with Integrated Center Information Display. • New driver’s knee airbag Key Features on BRZ Premium with Automatic Transmission • 6-Speed Electronic Direct-Control Automatic Transmission • EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with Adaptive Cruise Control • Shift lever handle: leather-wrapped with Gunmetal finish insert • Shift lever boot: simulated leather with red stitching • Hight Beam Assist
Glad to hear that you are satisfied with the standard audio system! How big is the difference compared to the premium one, in the GR86 you tested earlier this year? This is the only option I fear missing out when I would decide to get the base model at this point 😅
I’m getting the automatic GR86, I understand it may not be as engaging as an manual but you can still have lot’s of fun with the automatic version, I think people are too closed minded and hop on the bandwagon when it comes to transmission choices, get something that makes you happy and not others happy.
the manual only guys can get annoying but I think it's the automatic people that are close minded considering the majority of people only drive auto and have never driven a manual car and dont even know how to
I found that offensive as if we need to be impressed. Apparently there's these gender norms in society that tell us "oh I need a man to pick me up and impress me". Ugh so annoying
Jeez, people get so snobby about auto vs manual. It’s YOUR car, not some random guy on the internet’s car. Get what you really want. I’ve never driven a manual but that doesn’t stop me from enjoying my automatic car.
I like when a car manufacturer offers a bad automatic transmission, so everybody buys the manual one. I still like the fact that you give a chance to every car to be reviewed.
@UCHWubvtZMs_HS2soBya6PYg in modern days, the ZF 8 speed or any dual clutches work so well that people chose them instead of a manual. In this case, this transmission is sluggish for sport car application and people will more likely to chose the manual.
idk alot of people in states would still buy a automatic over manual. I wish I could find some stats but around the 90s the auto sports cars really picked up in sales.
I like it when car manufacturers don't cheap out on the performance and offers an insane automatic that can take the same of abuse on the track as the manuals, you know like Hyundai's N models.
I have a 2017 Toyota 86 automatic . I live in a busy city and have mild shoulder and wrist issues so the automatic fits my lifestyle. Automatic is not bad .
While I know that the auto isn’t as great as the manual, I still thank you for reviewing it because I’m thinking of buying one of these so that my step dad who recently suffered a left leg injury can still race and enjoy cars
I don’t understand the transmission slander. I’ve owned both the auto and the manual and I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything special. For daily driving, the auto shifts more than adequately. Yes, manual is more engaging, but I appreciate the better MPG and the fact I can just pop it into D to cruise and listen to music.
Glad to hear this. I have been thinking ab getting one and I do a lot of city driving so im probably gonna get an automatic but this dude was making it seem like its so bad
Today I realised that the BRZ is $1000 cheaper than the GR86 (at MSRP, in Canada), so I was curious about the interior and base audio. So glad your review was really thorough and covered the infotainment and audio. I knew from yours and others' videos that it drove brilliantly, but this day-to-day review is probably what has pushed me over the edge... dangit. But also thanks!
At the Ontario dealerships the 86 base is 31500, and the BRZ base is 29500. Both cars top out at 34500 (I'm pretty sure). The huge difference in base cost doesn't make sense. There are nearly zero differences aside from a slight suspension tweak and flatter material colors in the 86. Another odd detail is that the base 86 has rubber pedals where as the base BRZ and both cars top trims all have aluminum pedal. Bottom line: unless you are chasing the nameplate, there is no reason to get an 86 in Canada. BRZ is the better deal.
Canada and US always have different options. Canada based Subaru's always gets more features at lesser price. Can't really use US versions to compare. Most US dont get heated steering or dual climates.
I drove the auto & found it to be brilliant you just have to know how to drive it in sport mode / track with the paddle shifts. Subaru has done a great job and you also get all the safety options you don’t get in the manual. I would definitely buy 👍
I agree with this. The entire point of the BRZ/86 is to have a car that can do a little bit of everything without breaking the bank or costing too much in insurance, gas, and maintenance. Wanna drive it everyday? You can do that. Wanna get a little sporty on the country roads or track? You can do that. Need some extra space in the trunk or room for some kids in the back? You can do that. And the best part of this all is that the insurance and gas bills won’t be too much thanks to how the car was designed.
Honestly, I’m glad they put an automatic that limits your gearing. It just means people can’t tear up a brand new car when they want to😂. The manual transmission is great for people who want that control.
It is a very pleasant surprise that there are still cars in the 2022 model year that come with reasonably sized wheels and not some gigantic millstones that manufacturers and most people have been so obsessed with these years. Would've never guessed that this new generation BRZ would come with wheels under 18". This very much proves the point that oversized rims are more about looks than handling.
I’ll probably get an auto version of the GR86. I like stick, my first car was stick, but I don’t enjoy stick in traffic. For me a daily driver needs to be a Goldilocks car and if I don’t enjoy driving it half the time it won’t work. I think the fact that it won’t let you downshift whenever you want is actually a good thing. There were a few cases with the previous generation car where guys would blow their motor in the manual version because they downshifted too early and sent the revs way too high. I like the fact it won’t let me make that mistake.
Why does every auto journalist get in an automatic and abuse it worse than they ever would in a manual then say "LOOK IT DOESN"T WORK LIKE IT SHOULD, GET A MANUAL". I've driven the prior version BRZ auto and it was brilliant for what it is.
I would 110% buy this in a 6 speed, but for someone who lives in a city with notorious traffic, and drivers with mail-in rebate licenses in the suburbs (driving 20 under the limit, sudden stop and turns, slamming on the brakes and realizing their turn is the next one down) I would buy the automatic. I also don’t wanna take away any fun factors from my 86 E28 either 👍
IDK, test drive it before making that decision. IDK about you but personally I'd be able to live with that kind of situation with a manual. I would NOT buy this with a manual tho. Look at the 2.0 Supra instead
I always loved the dual clutch autos because it's like the best of both worlds, just not as quite the control you get from the manual. Wish it had the dct like Hyundai offers on the N.
The transmission downshifts exactly when it should unless you think it'll go from 3rd to 2nd at 56mph and expect it to slid right into first at 50 mph. A manual wouldn't handle that abuse any better. This guy has warped expectations.
I can downshift into 2nd going 55mph in my car. The tuning is just not the best and doesn't let you downshift. Maybe it's to prevent people from redlining the car.
I agree with your statement, HOWEVER my current 2017 auto 86 actually lets you be a little more aggresive with the downshifts. It does seem like they limited it more in the new generation. Which is fine as long as they give us a reason why. Was it hurting the transmissions in the prior gen doing that? Or is it just a tuning overlook. Who knows
What I really love about these kinds of cars is that you’ll notice how much you stick out from the other cars. mustangs and challengers are common cars anyone can buy and is kinda boring seeing all the same ones. But with this car, it feels like your driving a car from fast and the furious. you don’t really buy this and expect a loud hp engine, you get this car to drive/cruise in style.
I'll be honest, I've always driven an automatic and I've always wanted an automatic with any car I wanted. But I learnt to drive manual once and I loved it. It was so fun to do multiple tasks and had a better satisfaction level. Once I came back to my family daily driver, I just couldn't love driving as I used and I desired a manual transmission. I say everyone on automatic give it a try, you won't be let down.
In my experience, the license plate thing on the new BRZ in front is a plus. More states than not require a front plate. On my '17, they had nothing up front to aid in mounting the plate. Nice if YOUR dealer will "handle" the license plate thing. My sales person said they would, and there was a "kit" in the trunk. After waiting in line at the service department, I told them what I wanted, and got a blank look and shoulder shrug. In the end, I had to buy the right size drill bit, drill holes in my bumper using a template, and mount it with their hardware. It was sort of like using sheetrock anchors. But I drove an hour to the dealership to get this done, so was plenty pissed when the stealership service guys told me they couldn't drill on MY car. So if the BRZ now has the pre-scored holes, that is a bonus. Good luck with getting your dealer to do the job on your 86. The other option is a Perrin kit (Maybe $ 80?) that mounts it to the front tow hook but offsets the plate to the side. But yes, if your state doesn't require a plate, you either have to get the 86, live with the ugly, or get a decorative plate (in your case, perhaps an "Ohio Sucks" plate, given how much the two states share love).
Can we please get a full manual transmission vid with a compare/contrast like you did for the GR86? Thanks for doing this one, but I think the majority of drivers of this car will want to know about the manual (I think it's like a 70%+ take rate for manual so far), including me. Thanks for what you do! These POV drives are way better than the generic car reviews that are out there. Considering that although I have a manual 2022 BRZ on order right now (it arrives in May), I can't even find one anywhere to test drive (because they disappear so fast), these videos are the next best thing to actually test driving it myself.
I agree 100%, manual is the authentic way of fully experiencing what this car has to offer, though I had the previous gen BRZ in automatic and found it was great. Let’s just be eternally grateful that they stuck with a traditional auto for the new models and didn’t switch over to, *ahem*... a CVT (like the WRX). 😱 THAT would’ve been disappointing!
Thank you thank you thank you for including the base audio sound system in your video. I think music is an important element to add to an individual’s car driving experience. Most automotive journalists neglect to mention audio systems when reviewing cars. Thanks again for the thorough review.
I wish it had a better Automatic. I can drive manual before anyone gets mad. I would have thought about financing it with auto because I wanted to feel like I'm in a low to the ground, sports car with paddle shifters like the high end exotics have like the Ferraris, lambos or even the GT3RS. But, it is what it is, it's still too expensive for me personally, so I can't justify financing it for next 6 or 7 years with such a bad automatic. I wish someone made a cheap, low powered, low to the ground, sports coupe with a good automatic.
The auto is actually the aisin 6 speed. An excellent and very strong transmission. Its fitted to all the asian turbo diesel mini trucks, with up to 500 NM stock torque and last forever towing and working hard. BRZ wont ever wear it out even supercharged. Something to think about.
Dude blew my mind when he folded the seats down for the back. Doug Demuro complained about it so much in his video about it saying he had to go inside the car to do it.
You’re reviews are always so thorough and you seem to answer my questions before I even think of them! I think the remake of this car is beautiful but I have to be honest, it just sound like an old 80's or 90's Corolla.
I happen to think that having an automatic transmission option in this car is a smart move on Subaru's part. Hardly anyone buys manual transmissions anymore, and this can potentially pull in more sales for them. Besides, driving a manual transmission in daily driving with bumper to bumper traffic gets old after a while.
It is supposed to be a drivers car, the automatic is not suitable for that but yes it is smart for them to put it as a option. However it should not be one.
From a marketing standpoint yes its smart. Realistically however, certain cars like the BRZ and the WRX does not feel right to have an automatic option with. People dont buy as much manuals these days because most of them are lazy and wanna scroll through tiktok while driving. Only a select few truly appreciate the driving experience these types of cars offer and i cringe so hard when people complain about the rawness or lack of tech in a sports car smh. Btw bumper to bumper in traffic is annoying manual or not.
The take rate on manual transmission cars are much higher on "enthusiast" cars than some random commuter car. Tens and millions of people drive sticks around the world in "bumper to bumper" traffic without any issue. I hear this all the time from auto buyers trying to justify their purchase and/or lack of desire to "get good" with a stick. These are lightweight cars with lightweight clutch pedals. Little old Asian and Europeans ladies are driving sticks without a problem, but young, healthy Gen Z folks are complaining about their left leg getting tired. Yawn.
If companies would stop throwing heavy ass clutches into cars, there'd really be no issues. Honda's are nothing to drive in traffic. MX5s are nothing to drive in traffic. This being said, I daily'd a MS3 for many many years. Those were absolutely trash with their heavy ass clutch.
Hey Topher really love your videos. Just wanted to let you know that if it's possible then try to use a rap song with bass to test the sound system. Just a suggestion
Great job. I sit in my car when I watch these videos, I drive a Forester with an exhaust and it helps to give me a real understanding of what the car feels like. My car has a similar note to the BRZ. So awesome
17:37 I don't really think that's a fair comparison. The base supra starts @ $43,000 USD which is a ~$14,000 difference between the two models - I personally wouldn't consider them in the same class as most consumers won't be cross shopping the two with such a large price difference.
I understand why they offer an automatic but this isnt even a DCT so unless you have a disability you should be buying this car with a manual. Driving in traffic is not bad at all with a manual, ppl that never driven manuals always say that as an excuse.
I agree. I love daily driving a manual, whether traffic is bad or not. It requires your attention and most people sadly no longer have an attention span due to technology doing everything for them. People aren't patient enough anymore to learn or motivated to do anything. It's a sad era that's taking place in America.
I am new to a manual like maybe 2 weeks, if that. And I have only stalled once, yeah going into first gear is a little rough but I got through it and now daily my manual. Which has made me kind of annoyed with my automatic because sometimes I wonder why it shifts when I wouldn’t have if it was a manual
@@Migerk1 if you want a more smoother start-off in 1st gear, you can raise the clutch to the bite point a little bit quicker and have the gas ready to catch the biting point. I've only been driving manual for just under a year and am just now getting comfortably confident. It will take time but it will be all the more worth it in the end.
The BRZ/GR86 IS a "sports car." Adding the vestigial rear seat was a wise marketing move to increase sales. And, as someone who often has knee pain, so was offering the automatic transmission.
YOu sold me on this car! I live in NE Ohio, but I think ten months a year could be fun!!!! Thank you, Given how we get winters here are similar to Mich, I love how you made this video!!!!
I tried like hell to get one. Ended up buying a 2021 V6 Camaro instead the other day. It's still super nimble and fast as hell. I'm happy with my 2nd pick all the same.
i have an ecoboost mustang and im jealous of the pretty interior this brz has...nice big screen, nice cluster not to basic looking...and the red stitching on the interior is very nice
I had a mustang Ecoboost premium with red interior and digital dash. It looked much better than the BRZ interior. But I still like the simplicity of the BRZ interior.
@@Barbwire710 oh yea definitely. If you are fortunate enough to be able to have the red leather seats and the extremely nice digital cluster..it wont get much better than that. Beautiful outside and inside. But the base model mustang interiors and even the premium that just gives the black leather seats...sucks.
Thanks for testing out this version Topher! It is usually hard to find a test on the lower level trim, let alone with an automatic. It is good to know what the new automatic brings, and as you astutely noted, if that sells more BRZ's, it will encourage the makers to keep them coming. Being owner of a '17 Limited MT with Performance Pack, a few questions: 1. Noticing the snow falling and on the ground, what temperature were you testing at? I'm assuming you were running the OEM summer preformance tires, and snow producing temperatures would seem to be well below what places like Tire Rack would recommend for Summer Performance Tires. (I was expecting some handling and feel impact or worse.) Thoughts? Am I being overly cautious swapping over to my Blizzaks when the temps stay below 45F? 2. Interesting comment re if you want an automatic, spring for the Supra 2.0. I've had that same thought. (My wife doesn't drive manual, so now with my MT, if we think we'll want to share driving on a road trip, the BRZ stays home.) How do you think the Supra stacks up in terms of that driving engagement? This is one of the huge things that draws me to this car. Every time I get in it, the drive is fun. So connected to the machine vs so much of the other offerings out there. Is the extra thrust in the Supra 2.0 enough to offset any decrease in engagement vs MT and chassis on the BRZ? 3. You may have mentioned this, but I think a lot of the nannies on the BRZ are only available on the automatic. Lane keep assist, radar cruise, and not sure on blind spot monitoring. For what it's worth, that might get you a bit of a break on insurance.
Great impressions as always. Sounds really loud engine note wise in cabin, think note higher pitched too. Similar engine note but slightly better though than my 2017 GT86 previous model imo.
I have a question. I been looking at the GR86 as a daily driver. The car will never see a day on a track. I do not drive stick, is it worth getting this car in auto? I really like how it looks.
You gained a new subscriber. Your car reviews are some of the best I’ve ever seen. I wanted to ask your opinion on two cars I’m trying to decide on since you have had extensive experience with both. One being the Veloster N W/DCT and new BRZ/GR86. They are pretty much the same price in the area that I live so it makes the decision pretty tough. I’m leaning towards the VN because the DCT is amazing and the stock exhaust is like no other. Which one would you choose?
17:52 the fact that you up shifted and the car wouldnt change gears 💀 The automatic seems perfect for just casual driving. I dont think anyone who wants to mod and track the car will enjoy it that much. Subaru/toyota really missed the mark on it
Drove manual for 18 years , it's fun , but live in Sacramento,Ca and I definitely don't wanna be shifting every 2 seconds it's just not worth it anymore
Ive read the comments here, i guess mlst people here are Americans. Im from Europe, and we all drive manuals, no matter ehat car it is. So getting an auto is very exotic. And looks way cooler than the normal manual we are used to. i remember as a kid, the neighbor got an mercedes automatic transmission. It was so cool we all thought. And then i look a video of Americans bitching about autos. Come on...
I like the engine note. It sounds like a Subaru Boxer mixed with a Mazda rotary to me. It definitely sounds sporty. It's a shame though that Subaru (and Toyota, for that matter) didn't develop a proper automatic transmission for this thing. They gave it the Lexus "six speed automatic" treatment and called it good.
That IS a "proper automatic transmission." You mean - a DCT? I'd guess that at some point Toyota/Subaru had to consider keeping the cost down, which they did - remarkably so - or people would be complaining about *that* now. Being a Subaru engine, it's fortunate they didn't simply give it a CVT (like the WRX).
@@kenhoward3512 can't argue with you there. They also kept the weight basically the same. And at least it isn't a CVT. A DCT would be nice, though, for faster shifts and more flexibility
@@UndeadFlygon It is the same transmission that has been used on some IS models before as well as the 3rd-gen GS 300. At least based on the video here, it reminds me of the one in my former 2016 IS 300 AWD. That one also didn't like to downshift before it could rev to less than 6000 RPM.
It's pretty neutral in my experience - I'd have to drive the GR86 and BRZ back-to-back to see the differences in suspension tuning, but ever since 2017 Subaru and Toyota have nailed the chassis setup on these cars
I'm so confused by how this transmission behaves. The NC and ND Miatas have the same 6AT as the ZN6/ZN8, but I've never ran into downshift lockouts like this before. Unless downshifting would overrev the engine, our ND2 always goes into the requested gear. I wonder why the programming is so different.
The only mods I would do to a current BRZ/GR86 are tires that don't suck, removing the atrocious fake engine sounds, and a better final drive because nothing hurts this car more than giving a 230 hp car the gearing of a 500+ hp car.
I really want the manual version of this car but the only problem about that is selling it . Most people don't drive manuals they'd prefer an automatic and that's concerning. Automatic might be a better buy.
MSRP: $29,595
Fuel Economy 21 city / 30 highway / 25 combined
Fuel Capacity 13.2 gal.
Horsepower: 228 hp @ 7,000 rpm
Torque 184 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm
Engine: DOHC 4-cyl. 2.4-liter BOXER engine
Curb weight: 2,864 lbs
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Dimensions: 168″ L x 70″ W x 52″ H
What’s New
• High-performance 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine with 228 horsepower and 15-percent
increase in torque over first-generation BRZ’s 2.0-liter engine
• Premium and Limited trims offered in standard 6-speed manual transmission or available 6-
speed Electronic Direct Control Automatic with paddle shift controls
• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with Adaptive Cruise Control and High Beam Assist
featured on models equipped with 6-speed automatic transmission
• Limited equipped with 215/40 R18 85Y Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer performance tires
• Aerodynamically enhanced body design with undercover insulator, front fender air outlet,
body color rocker spoiler and integrated trunk spoiler
• Roofline features a subtle “double bubble” appearance, a nod to vintage racing cars
• Chassis design elements from the Subaru Global Platform give the new BRZ’s structure a
50-percent increase in torsional stiffness
• A lower center of gravity than the first-gen model
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) traction and stability system offers five different settings
• All-new driver-focused interior with customizable 7-inch digital instrument panel
• New SUBARU STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Plus system with Integrated Center
Information Display.
• New driver’s knee airbag
Key Features on BRZ Premium with Automatic Transmission
• 6-Speed Electronic Direct-Control Automatic Transmission
• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with Adaptive Cruise Control
• Shift lever handle: leather-wrapped with Gunmetal finish insert
• Shift lever boot: simulated leather with red stitching
• Hight Beam Assist
Hey Topher are you going to buy the new BRZ
Glad to hear that you are satisfied with the standard audio system! How big is the difference compared to the premium one, in the GR86 you tested earlier this year?
This is the only option I fear missing out when I would decide to get the base model at this point 😅
90K OTD with dealer adjustment am I right? lol
This/86 or ND2 RF for a daily?
I’m getting the automatic GR86, I understand it may not be as engaging as an manual but you can still have lot’s of fun with the automatic version, I think people are too closed minded and hop on the bandwagon when it comes to transmission choices, get something that makes you happy and not others happy.
You will be happy with the automatic- it's not a bad car - super fun to drive. I have 2017 Toyota 86 automatic . Enjoy your new car !
Agree. I've never owned an automatic, but people get way too snobby about this.
@@joby602 Yeah they do unfortunately, we all like cars I don’t why it’s such a big deal to some people.
the manual only guys can get annoying but I think it's the automatic people that are close minded considering the majority of people only drive auto and have never driven a manual car and dont even know how to
@@koastal312 I think closed minded automatic drivers are ones who think automatic is better than manual.
"You can do little 180's to impress the ladies" lmao That was my cue to drop a like!
Those bars went hard
I found that offensive as if we need to be impressed. Apparently there's these gender norms in society that tell us "oh I need a man to pick me up and impress me". Ugh so annoying
@@skytreegirl6929 no way you typed all that to a simple joke, grow up dawg
@@skytreegirl6929 nvm you might be trolling so I take that back
@@skytreegirl6929 ok... and?
Jeez, people get so snobby about auto vs manual. It’s YOUR car, not some random guy on the internet’s car. Get what you really want. I’ve never driven a manual but that doesn’t stop me from enjoying my automatic car.
I like when a car manufacturer offers a bad automatic transmission, so everybody buys the manual one. I still like the fact that you give a chance to every car to be reviewed.
@UCHWubvtZMs_HS2soBya6PYg in modern days, the ZF 8 speed or any dual clutches work so well that people chose them instead of a manual. In this case, this transmission is sluggish for sport car application and people will more likely to chose the manual.
idk alot of people in states would still buy a automatic over manual. I wish I could find some stats but around the 90s the auto sports cars really picked up in sales.
I like it when car manufacturers don't cheap out on the performance and offers an insane automatic that can take the same of abuse on the track as the manuals, you know like Hyundai's N models.
The best part is that the auto costs $1000 more, so you're paying a premium to have a worse version of the car. 10/10, exactly as it should be.
@@Rich-gd4fc yeah cost more to own an automatic. f*ck
I have a 2017 Toyota 86 automatic . I live in a busy city and have mild shoulder and wrist issues so the automatic fits my lifestyle. Automatic is not bad .
At the end of the day your car has to fit your needs so don’t listen to other people
i mean this car isnt powerful at all so automatic makes sense esp in city.
Do you get an adrenaline rush when you shift into D?
@@stevebuscemi3622 DORIFTU MODE
Lol I drive stick in Boston .. and what kind of shoulder and wrist issues?
While I know that the auto isn’t as great as the manual, I still thank you for reviewing it because I’m thinking of buying one of these so that my step dad who recently suffered a left leg injury can still race and enjoy cars
I don’t understand the transmission slander. I’ve owned both the auto and the manual and I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything special. For daily driving, the auto shifts more than adequately. Yes, manual is more engaging, but I appreciate the better MPG and the fact I can just pop it into D to cruise and listen to music.
Fasho
Glad to hear this. I have been thinking ab getting one and I do a lot of city driving so im probably gonna get an automatic but this dude was making it seem like its so bad
@@joefather2463 You won’t regret it. Get a tune and headers if you can.
Literally buy the car you want because YOU like it! Don’t listen to others, only
accept advice but at the end of the day your buying it!
Manual transmission loudmouths must have a nice time living places that don't have hours of traffic at 10-30mph.
I have a job, I'll take an auto.
Today I realised that the BRZ is $1000 cheaper than the GR86 (at MSRP, in Canada), so I was curious about the interior and base audio. So glad your review was really thorough and covered the infotainment and audio. I knew from yours and others' videos that it drove brilliantly, but this day-to-day review is probably what has pushed me over the edge... dangit. But also thanks!
At the Ontario dealerships the 86 base is 31500, and the BRZ base is 29500. Both cars top out at 34500 (I'm pretty sure). The huge difference in base cost doesn't make sense. There are nearly zero differences aside from a slight suspension tweak and flatter material colors in the 86. Another odd detail is that the base 86 has rubber pedals where as the base BRZ and both cars top trims all have aluminum pedal.
Bottom line: unless you are chasing the nameplate, there is no reason to get an 86 in Canada. BRZ is the better deal.
@@Lord_Sneetus the brz comes with nicer STI accent parts
@@Lord_Sneetus the 86 just comes with a optional 10inch sub
It's actually slightly more expensive in the US, $27,995 for the BRZ compared to $27,700 for the 86.
Canada and US always have different options. Canada based Subaru's always gets more features at lesser price. Can't really use US versions to compare. Most US dont get heated steering or dual climates.
I drove the auto & found it to be brilliant you just have to know how to drive it in sport mode / track with the paddle shifts. Subaru has done a great job and you also get all the safety options you don’t get in the manual. I would definitely buy 👍
Yeah I was thinking that the auto would be better once you learnt it's quirks and how to minmumise the effect of it's short comings.
Finally, someone not down looking down on an auto
I agree with this. The entire point of the BRZ/86 is to have a car that can do a little bit of everything without breaking the bank or costing too much in insurance, gas, and maintenance.
Wanna drive it everyday? You can do that.
Wanna get a little sporty on the country roads or track? You can do that.
Need some extra space in the trunk or room for some kids in the back? You can do that.
And the best part of this all is that the insurance and gas bills won’t be too much thanks to how the car was designed.
I agree with you completely. Drove both would take the automatic
Honestly, I’m glad they put an automatic that limits your gearing. It just means people can’t tear up a brand new car when they want to😂. The manual transmission is great for people who want that control.
Especially good for someone like me who lives in the Bay Area. It just isn’t fun rowing your own gears in rush hour traffic. It just becomes annoying
He could have just put it into sport mode and used the paddle shifters if he wanted some control
Some people want an auto, chill with the hate dude. 😎
It is a very pleasant surprise that there are still cars in the 2022 model year that come with reasonably sized wheels and not some gigantic millstones that manufacturers and most people have been so obsessed with these years. Would've never guessed that this new generation BRZ would come with wheels under 18". This very much proves the point that oversized rims are more about looks than handling.
I’ll probably get an auto version of the GR86. I like stick, my first car was stick, but I don’t enjoy stick in traffic. For me a daily driver needs to be a Goldilocks car and if I don’t enjoy driving it half the time it won’t work. I think the fact that it won’t let you downshift whenever you want is actually a good thing. There were a few cases with the previous generation car where guys would blow their motor in the manual version because they downshifted too early and sent the revs way too high. I like the fact it won’t let me make that mistake.
The auto 86 is really good for daily driving and some fun stuff too haha! but its all preference in the end
“If you want a automatic sports car you should buy the eight speed automatic base, 2 L Toyota supra” yeah because everyone has $60,000 lying around.
haha!
AND FOR A TOYOTA???
I love the auto over the manual transmission I have a 2023 auto and very happy as a daily driver in the city
always a better day when topher uploads
Why does every auto journalist get in an automatic and abuse it worse than they ever would in a manual then say "LOOK IT DOESN"T WORK LIKE IT SHOULD, GET A MANUAL".
I've driven the prior version BRZ auto and it was brilliant for what it is.
I would 110% buy this in a 6 speed, but for someone who lives in a city with notorious traffic, and drivers with mail-in rebate licenses in the suburbs (driving 20 under the limit, sudden stop and turns, slamming on the brakes and realizing their turn is the next one down) I would buy the automatic. I also don’t wanna take away any fun factors from my 86 E28 either 👍
IDK, test drive it before making that decision. IDK about you but personally I'd be able to live with that kind of situation with a manual. I would NOT buy this with a manual tho. Look at the 2.0 Supra instead
@@philspaghet I'm not a Toyota guy but doesn't a supra have automatic as well? I'm probably wrong
@@TheCountDook Yeah it's auto only. I'm just saying I personally would not buy it because it's only an automatic
@@philspaghet nah supra comes manual now too
@@FabricateFrog yeah the 3.0 but I'm comparing 2.0 to GR86/BRZ
I always loved the dual clutch autos because it's like the best of both worlds, just not as quite the control you get from the manual. Wish it had the dct like Hyundai offers on the N.
Every time you say get the manual confirms me getting the automatic
Another great pov, I love how you go into great detail of every part of the car unlike some other videos.
I am glad to see The Topher still keeps the photo of his 2014 sliver BRZ as the photo for this channel.
The transmission downshifts exactly when it should unless you think it'll go from 3rd to 2nd at 56mph and expect it to slid right into first at 50 mph. A manual wouldn't handle that abuse any better. This guy has warped expectations.
True
I can downshift into 2nd going 55mph in my car. The tuning is just not the best and doesn't let you downshift. Maybe it's to prevent people from redlining the car.
I agree with your statement, HOWEVER my current 2017 auto 86 actually lets you be a little more aggresive with the downshifts. It does seem like they limited it more in the new generation.
Which is fine as long as they give us a reason why. Was it hurting the transmissions in the prior gen doing that? Or is it just a tuning overlook. Who knows
@@DysphoriaRL maybe to keep you in the power band? Not sure
@@DysphoriaRL or it is simply just a difference in gearing your car aint gonna let you down shift to the point that is bouncing off the rev limit
What I really love about these kinds of cars is that you’ll notice how much you stick out from the other cars. mustangs and challengers are common cars anyone can buy and is kinda boring seeing all the same ones. But with this car, it feels like your driving a car from fast and the furious. you don’t really buy this and expect a loud hp engine, you get this car to drive/cruise in style.
I'll be honest, I've always driven an automatic and I've always wanted an automatic with any car I wanted. But I learnt to drive manual once and I loved it. It was so fun to do multiple tasks and had a better satisfaction level. Once I came back to my family daily driver, I just couldn't love driving as I used and I desired a manual transmission. I say everyone on automatic give it a try, you won't be let down.
In my experience, the license plate thing on the new BRZ in front is a plus. More states than not require a front plate. On my '17, they had nothing up front to aid in mounting the plate. Nice if YOUR dealer will "handle" the license plate thing. My sales person said they would, and there was a "kit" in the trunk. After waiting in line at the service department, I told them what I wanted, and got a blank look and shoulder shrug. In the end, I had to buy the right size drill bit, drill holes in my bumper using a template, and mount it with their hardware. It was sort of like using sheetrock anchors. But I drove an hour to the dealership to get this done, so was plenty pissed when the stealership service guys told me they couldn't drill on MY car. So if the BRZ now has the pre-scored holes, that is a bonus. Good luck with getting your dealer to do the job on your 86. The other option is a Perrin kit (Maybe $ 80?) that mounts it to the front tow hook but offsets the plate to the side. But yes, if your state doesn't require a plate, you either have to get the 86, live with the ugly, or get a decorative plate (in your case, perhaps an "Ohio Sucks" plate, given how much the two states share love).
I love simple and rectangular infotainment screens like that. I wish more car manufacturers would design an interior like that.
Can we please get a full manual transmission vid with a compare/contrast like you did for the GR86? Thanks for doing this one, but I think the majority of drivers of this car will want to know about the manual (I think it's like a 70%+ take rate for manual so far), including me. Thanks for what you do! These POV drives are way better than the generic car reviews that are out there. Considering that although I have a manual 2022 BRZ on order right now (it arrives in May), I can't even find one anywhere to test drive (because they disappear so fast), these videos are the next best thing to actually test driving it myself.
Got my self an auto and love it manual is just a way to save money
good ol topher brz reviews, i love it.
Feels like home!
I love the BRZ I know how to drive manual but after a knee injury being able to just drive automatic and enjoy it is nice.
Why not look at the 2.0 Supra? The ZF in that is far better and you can get them used by now
@@philspaghet don’t want the payments of a Supra. I’d love one but being a college student just can’t afford one lol
@@philspaghet maybe once the market drops cause the 2.0 is about 50k plus in my area and it’s used.
@philspaghet Automatic BRZ > 2.0 Supra. If you get a Supra you get the main 3.0 nothing less.
I agree 100%, manual is the authentic way of fully experiencing what this car has to offer, though I had the previous gen BRZ in automatic and found it was great. Let’s just be eternally grateful that they stuck with a traditional auto for the new models and didn’t switch over to, *ahem*... a CVT (like the WRX). 😱 THAT would’ve been disappointing!
Thank you thank you thank you for including the base audio sound system in your video. I think music is an important element to add to an individual’s car driving experience. Most automotive journalists neglect to mention audio systems when reviewing cars. Thanks again for the thorough review.
I wish it had a better Automatic. I can drive manual before anyone gets mad. I would have thought about financing it with auto because I wanted to feel like I'm in a low to the ground, sports car with paddle shifters like the high end exotics have like the Ferraris, lambos or even the GT3RS. But, it is what it is, it's still too expensive for me personally, so I can't justify financing it for next 6 or 7 years with such a bad automatic. I wish someone made a cheap, low powered, low to the ground, sports coupe with a good automatic.
The auto is actually the aisin 6 speed. An excellent and very strong transmission.
Its fitted to all the asian turbo diesel mini trucks, with up to 500 NM stock torque and last forever towing and working hard.
BRZ wont ever wear it out even supercharged.
Something to think about.
Dude blew my mind when he folded the seats down for the back. Doug Demuro complained about it so much in his video about it saying he had to go inside the car to do it.
Probably because both Doug and his dog are 6’4
@@TheTopher 6 foot 3 on a bad day.
A ZF-8seed auto would do wonders for this car !
You’re reviews are always so thorough and you seem to answer my questions before I even think of them! I think the remake of this car is beautiful but I have to be honest, it just sound like an old 80's or 90's Corolla.
*your
Sorry. Just had to be that guy
Thanks for the AUTO review not all of us sadly can still drive a manual!
Not to hard to learn
@@matthewthedude146 key word was “can” my leg is done with nothing in my joints anymore so not sure how you can learn that
@@shadowdraxx Install a hand clutch ;)
@@philspaghet I love manuals as much as the next guy but let a guy drive what he wants
@@invalidcrazy7034 I'm just giving options lol
I happen to think that having an automatic transmission option in this car is a smart move on Subaru's part.
Hardly anyone buys manual transmissions anymore, and this can potentially pull in more sales for them.
Besides, driving a manual transmission in daily driving with bumper to bumper traffic gets old after a while.
It is supposed to be a drivers car, the automatic is not suitable for that but yes it is smart for them to put it as a option. However it should not be one.
From a marketing standpoint yes its smart. Realistically however, certain cars like the BRZ and the WRX does not feel right to have an automatic option with. People dont buy as much manuals these days because most of them are lazy and wanna scroll through tiktok while driving. Only a select few truly appreciate the driving experience these types of cars offer and i cringe so hard when people complain about the rawness or lack of tech in a sports car smh. Btw bumper to bumper in traffic is annoying manual or not.
The take rate on manual transmission cars are much higher on "enthusiast" cars than some random commuter car. Tens and millions of people drive sticks around the world in "bumper to bumper" traffic without any issue. I hear this all the time from auto buyers trying to justify their purchase and/or lack of desire to "get good" with a stick. These are lightweight cars with lightweight clutch pedals. Little old Asian and Europeans ladies are driving sticks without a problem, but young, healthy Gen Z folks are complaining about their left leg getting tired. Yawn.
@@Blades66 Why not lol?
If companies would stop throwing heavy ass clutches into cars, there'd really be no issues. Honda's are nothing to drive in traffic. MX5s are nothing to drive in traffic.
This being said, I daily'd a MS3 for many many years. Those were absolutely trash with their heavy ass clutch.
Those beeps from downshifting are soul killing.
People looking to make their BRZ/86 their sporty/modified car should get the manual.
Everyday drivers like me need the automatic.
nope drive mine 300-ish miles a week. 6spd. no regrets
Seems like Mazda is one of the few manufacturers getting the manual shift direction correct.
Love all the updates they made! Unusually obsessed with the steering wheel
Hey Topher really love your videos. Just wanted to let you know that if it's possible then try to use a rap song with bass to test the sound system. Just a suggestion
If I was shopping for a Civic/Corolla/Mazda3 for commuting, I'd take the automatic over all of the compact cars.
Great job. I sit in my car when I watch these videos, I drive a Forester with an exhaust and it helps to give me a real understanding of what the car feels like. My car has a similar note to the BRZ. So awesome
17:37 I don't really think that's a fair comparison. The base supra starts @ $43,000 USD which is a ~$14,000 difference between the two models - I personally wouldn't consider them in the same class as most consumers won't be cross shopping the two with such a large price difference.
I understand why they offer an automatic but this isnt even a DCT so unless you have a disability you should be buying this car with a manual. Driving in traffic is not bad at all with a manual, ppl that never driven manuals always say that as an excuse.
I agree. I love daily driving a manual, whether traffic is bad or not. It requires your attention and most people sadly no longer have an attention span due to technology doing everything for them. People aren't patient enough anymore to learn or motivated to do anything. It's a sad era that's taking place in America.
I am new to a manual like maybe 2 weeks, if that. And I have only stalled once, yeah going into first gear is a little rough but I got through it and now daily my manual. Which has made me kind of annoyed with my automatic because sometimes I wonder why it shifts when I wouldn’t have if it was a manual
@@Migerk1 if you want a more smoother start-off in 1st gear, you can raise the clutch to the bite point a little bit quicker and have the gas ready to catch the biting point. I've only been driving manual for just under a year and am just now getting comfortably confident. It will take time but it will be all the more worth it in the end.
Honestly blown away by how quick this thing is. I love horizontal motors.
The BRZ/GR86 IS a "sports car." Adding the vestigial rear seat was a wise marketing move to increase sales. And, as someone who often has knee pain, so was offering the automatic transmission.
Coward
@@stevebuscemi3622 Looks like you're the coward here. Let people drive what they want, and don't pester them for making their own decisions.
WITHOUT QUESTION: THIS IS THE BEST REVIEW I HAVE SEEN OF THIS CAR! Thank you so much for sharing. I think this car could be more fun that Mazda MX5.
YOu sold me on this car! I live in NE Ohio, but I think ten months a year could be fun!!!! Thank you, Given how we get winters here are similar to Mich, I love how you made this video!!!!
I tried like hell to get one. Ended up buying a 2021 V6 Camaro instead the other day. It's still super nimble and fast as hell. I'm happy with my 2nd pick all the same.
It must have hurt to not get what you truly wanted, but I'm glad you're not regretting it!
instantly made my day better seeing this upload
i have an ecoboost mustang and im jealous of the pretty interior this brz has...nice big screen, nice cluster not to basic looking...and the red stitching on the interior is very nice
I had a mustang Ecoboost premium with red interior and digital dash. It looked much better than the BRZ interior. But I still like the simplicity of the BRZ interior.
@@Barbwire710 oh yea definitely. If you are fortunate enough to be able to have the red leather seats and the extremely nice digital cluster..it wont get much better than that. Beautiful outside and inside. But the base model mustang interiors and even the premium that just gives the black leather seats...sucks.
Pretty? It's cheap lol
Thanks for testing out this version Topher! It is usually hard to find a test on the lower level trim, let alone with an automatic. It is good to know what the new automatic brings, and as you astutely noted, if that sells more BRZ's, it will encourage the makers to keep them coming. Being owner of a '17 Limited MT with Performance Pack, a few questions:
1. Noticing the snow falling and on the ground, what temperature were you testing at? I'm assuming you were running the OEM summer preformance tires, and snow producing temperatures would seem to be well below what places like Tire Rack would recommend for Summer Performance Tires. (I was expecting some handling and feel impact or worse.) Thoughts? Am I being overly cautious swapping over to my Blizzaks when the temps stay below 45F?
2. Interesting comment re if you want an automatic, spring for the Supra 2.0. I've had that same thought. (My wife doesn't drive manual, so now with my MT, if we think we'll want to share driving on a road trip, the BRZ stays home.) How do you think the Supra stacks up in terms of that driving engagement? This is one of the huge things that draws me to this car. Every time I get in it, the drive is fun. So connected to the machine vs so much of the other offerings out there. Is the extra thrust in the Supra 2.0 enough to offset any decrease in engagement vs MT and chassis on the BRZ?
3. You may have mentioned this, but I think a lot of the nannies on the BRZ are only available on the automatic. Lane keep assist, radar cruise, and not sure on blind spot monitoring. For what it's worth, that might get you a bit of a break on insurance.
This is the most beautiful car start I've ever seen
Topher : Just get the manual.
Me : Ok. Getting the GR86 in MT then.
Yooo same gr86
I know this is not about cars but I love your music 🎧😍
All manual cars need that automatic console for the exact reason you are showing here
I’ve been waiting for this one
I just test drove one with a stick. It's... pretty close to perfect. Placed an order, will have it in March.
Great impressions as always. Sounds really loud engine note wise in cabin, think note higher pitched too. Similar engine note but slightly better though than my 2017 GT86 previous model imo.
its got speaker pumped in audio I believe.
Wow the silver is actually really nice looking. I ordered a halo white base 86 and I can't wait!
Really loved the review bro!
Appreciate the attention to detail and the great snow-capped driving.... Can't wait for your future reviews
Even if it's an automatic, it's still another BRZ on the road as opposed to some crossover.
Wym
My Man in the Winter with it 🤘 Love these Winter videos
not a fan of the automatic trans or the sound but other than that it looks like a great car especially for that price. Great review
15:25 every automatic with sports select / sequential I have driven has always been pull back to upshift and forwards to downshift.
I have a question. I been looking at the GR86 as a daily driver. The car will never see a day on a track. I do not drive stick, is it worth getting this car in auto? I really like how it looks.
do you think the auto will be improved with a tune and being able to bypass the downshift timing
?
the only thing i miss about the video is a manual transmission
greets from Italy
Love italian girls,
Greets from mexico 🇲🇽 🇮🇹
@@Ecuador006 i love Mexico
You gained a new subscriber. Your car reviews are some of the best I’ve ever seen. I wanted to ask your opinion on two cars I’m trying to decide on since you have had extensive experience with both. One being the Veloster N W/DCT and new BRZ/GR86. They are pretty much the same price in the area that I live so it makes the decision pretty tough. I’m leaning towards the VN because the DCT is amazing and the stock exhaust is like no other. Which one would you choose?
17:52 the fact that you up shifted and the car wouldnt change gears 💀 The automatic seems perfect for just casual driving. I dont think anyone who wants to mod and track the car will enjoy it that much. Subaru/toyota really missed the mark on it
Its nice to see a real auto instead of the cvt.
Drove manual for 18 years , it's fun , but live in Sacramento,Ca and I definitely don't wanna be shifting every 2 seconds it's just not worth it anymore
Ive read the comments here, i guess mlst people here are Americans. Im from Europe, and we all drive manuals, no matter ehat car it is. So getting an auto is very exotic. And looks way cooler than the normal manual we are used to. i remember as a kid, the neighbor got an mercedes automatic transmission. It was so cool we all thought. And then i look a video of Americans bitching about autos. Come on...
Good video bro. We need a video with the Manual Transmission
I like the engine note. It sounds like a Subaru Boxer mixed with a Mazda rotary to me. It definitely sounds sporty. It's a shame though that Subaru (and Toyota, for that matter) didn't develop a proper automatic transmission for this thing. They gave it the Lexus "six speed automatic" treatment and called it good.
That IS a "proper automatic transmission." You mean - a DCT? I'd guess that at some point Toyota/Subaru had to consider keeping the cost down, which they did - remarkably so - or people would be complaining about *that* now. Being a Subaru engine, it's fortunate they didn't simply give it a CVT (like the WRX).
@@kenhoward3512 can't argue with you there. They also kept the weight basically the same. And at least it isn't a CVT. A DCT would be nice, though, for faster shifts and more flexibility
I'm unfamiliar with the Lexus "six speed automatic treatment", could you expand on that? Just curious.
@@UndeadFlygon It is the same transmission that has been used on some IS models before as well as the 3rd-gen GS 300. At least based on the video here, it reminds me of the one in my former 2016 IS 300 AWD. That one also didn't like to downshift before it could rev to less than 6000 RPM.
Don't be such a child, get the manual. 😁
What's wrong with having an Automatic???
Not everyone wants to change their gears, big whoop.
I was never a fan of the Toyota and Subaru brz but with the new 2022 even stock they look amazing
Ah, I love it when you want to downshift and the car hits you with the "boop boop". Not fustrating at all
It's designed to save your engine from over revving.
@@VerisimilitudeDude oh yea yea i know, but it feels like it could spare a bit more rpm in that car. But thanks for the explanation
@@HelloAmDog Agreed actually. Also, I wish they had 7 or 8 gears instead of just 6. It would help with acceleration.
@@VerisimilitudeDude the only time a user agrees with another user on a youtube comment section 👏
thinking about getting one and handing it down to my son in 5-6 years.
amazing video! quick question, but does this car have a more natural tendency to understeer compared to the gr86 or previous gen 86/brz?
It's pretty neutral in my experience - I'd have to drive the GR86 and BRZ back-to-back to see the differences in suspension tuning, but ever since 2017 Subaru and Toyota have nailed the chassis setup on these cars
@@TheTopher glad to hear! if all goes well, i should have my new brz by mid-December (:
I'm so confused by how this transmission behaves. The NC and ND Miatas have the same 6AT as the ZN6/ZN8, but I've never ran into downshift lockouts like this before. Unless downshifting would overrev the engine, our ND2 always goes into the requested gear. I wonder why the programming is so different.
I really hate the brz torque dips, but when you are up to speed there is nothing like it. It's a love and hate thing i have with my car right now
The only mods I would do to a current BRZ/GR86 are tires that don't suck, removing the atrocious fake engine sounds, and a better final drive because nothing hurts this car more than giving a 230 hp car the gearing of a 500+ hp car.
that shifting on these car is holding it back I didn't know it was that bad I think even my 5 speed GS400 in manual mode shifts better
Yeah these cars are meant to be bought in manual, clearly they made an amazing manual gear box and put a shitty auto for a reason.
This car was meant for the manual transmission.
"If the car needs a manual transmission to be fun then it's not a fun car." - some anon
Honestly! I mean if you want a driver's car, it has to be a manual. Not just a car to steer around zzz
@@stevePDx YOU are the driver. Drive whatever you want.
I like the inside of the new BRZ a lot more than the new WRX, which looks very Tesla-like with the big centre display.
"180 to impress the ladies". Straight bars
Yes a button to turn off all the assistance tec!!!! Thank you this needs to become mandatory like hazard lights
It needs UEL header and it will get that rumble
Great review, great car! I hope that this Subaru comes to Europe. The BRZ looks better than the Toyota imo.
I really want the manual version of this car but the only problem about that is selling it . Most people don't drive manuals they'd prefer an automatic and that's concerning. Automatic might be a better buy.
Hey there! How's life in America?
@@joby602 It's great dude! Just wished people drove more manuals lol Cheers! 😂🍻
Who wants a manual in the 21er century?
Day one of a automatic premium, coming from a economy suv, bc I live in la. It’s really fun and nimble, great mpg as well
How do you like the auto 1 month later? How many miles now?
@@jonasbaine3538 almost 800, i honestly still love the car and plan to put mods etc to extract full potential
@@jaystaa75 wanna make a video of a review of the BRZ?
@@GKWunder yeah bro i gotchu, finished my 1k break in and been going to the canyons a lot, so I think its abt time
Nice video, so informative 👍