Discerning fact from fiction
Sometimes, the lines between fact and fiction get blurred, and if you want to know what is rumor and what is fact, you go directly to the source. That's what I try to do before writing any story.
The question I get asked is, will Subaru discontinue the BRZ rear-drive sport coupe? It's a fair question because it's the only non-all-wheel-drive model in Subaru's lineup. The trend is towards SUVs, and sales have dropped, so you begin to wonder.
Two Chances
I would say there are two chances Subaru will drop or discontinue the BRZ: slim and none. But let's hear it from Subaru.
Fact not fiction
When I asked my Subaru source about the rumors, he provided a reassuring response. He stated, "Business as usual on our end. There are no plans to change the drivetrain or phase out the BRZ at this time."
This reliable information should put any doubts to rest.
Business as usual means the BRZ will remain in the Subaru lineup for years. Will Subaru, at some point, change direction? Of course, they could; automakers make model changes all the time. Look at the discontinued Legacy sedan.
Subaru's performance models are alive and well.
I recently wrote that Subaru's performance car lineup, which consists of the WRX sport sedan and the BRZ sport coupe, is alive and well. Subaru has no intention of discontinuing either model. You can read my report here.
Saying Subaru Is Giving Up On Its Performance Cars Is Total Nonsense @SubaruReport @torquenewsautohttps://t.co/fRW0adukK3#subaru #wrx #brz pic.twitter.com/1uA9mQ09PJ
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) June 7, 2024
But it's the slowest seller.
The 2024 Subaru BRZ rear-drive sport coupe is the slowest-selling vehicle in Subaru of America's all-wheel-drive lineup. However, Subaru is not worried because the rear-drive BRZ has a specific purpose, and it's about something other than sales volume. It's quality over quantity.
The BRZ is Subaru's only rear-wheel-drive car, and it's not intended to be a high-volume model. The sport coupe is considered a boutique model designed to attract new customers to Subaru retailers.
For many driving enthusiasts, the BRZ serves as an excellent daily driver, but it's often a second car. This unique value proposition is what makes the BRZ special and appreciated by its fans.
If it is the customer's only car, when the BRZ owner outgrows the two-door coupe, they will return to Subaru and buy one of its top-selling SUVs, an all-wheel-drive Crosstrek, Forester, or Outback.
The BRZ is an excellent value for sports car enthusiasts. What is the price of the 2024 Subaru BRZ?
The BRZ Premium with a 6-speed manual gearbox has a starting price of $31,315. BRZ Limited (6-speed manual) has a starting MSRP of $33,815. The Limited with an automatic transmission starts at $34,765. The new BRZ tS MSRP starts at $36,465. Prices include destination and delivery fees ($1,120).
The 9 Cheapest Fast Cars, Subaru WRX And BRZ, More Than Affordability @SubaruReport @torquenewsautohttps://t.co/z3clNQAQ38#subaru #wrx #brz pic.twitter.com/pvWlW4jkKq
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) May 12, 2024
Have you seen the BRZ tS?
The 2024 BRZ tS is the new trim level for 2024. It has a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission.
The 2024 BRZ tS, the new trim level for 2024, comes with a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission and a range of exciting upgrades. These include a sport-tuned suspension from Subaru Tecnica International, high-performance Brembo brakes, 18-inch wheels in a dark gray metallic finish wrapped in 215/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, tS badging, and unique interior upgrades.
The BRZ tS also includes:
- Heated exterior power mirrors
- An upgraded audio system with a 2-channel amplifier and two additional speakers
- Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Keep Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Steering Responsive Headlights with High Beam Assist
- Starlink safety and security
The first time this has happened.
The big news is that Subaru's EyeSight driver assist technology is now compatible with manual transmission. The safety tech is now standard across the BRZ model line.
The BRZ was redesigned in 2022 and has a promising future ahead. If you're a fan, you can rest assured that it's not being discontinued. So, ignore the rumors and look forward to the long life that the BRZ has ahead.
It's Your Turn
How many Subaru BRZ owners are looking to upgrade to the new BRZ tS? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.
I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.
Photo credit: Subaru
Comments
I am looking to upgrade to…
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I am looking to upgrade to the new BRZ tS when it comes to Dubai