How to use paddle shifters on a Subaru BRZ?

Paddle shifters on a Subaru BRZ operate only on models equipped with an automatic transmission that offers manual shift control; the right paddle upshifts and the left paddle downshifts. If your BRZ uses a purely manual transmission, paddles aren’t present. Check your vehicle’s specifications or owner’s manual to confirm availability for your year and market.

What paddle shifters do in the BRZ

Paddle shifters give you direct control over gear changes without using the gear lever, allowing for quicker throttle response and more engaged driving, especially in sportier conditions. In BRZ variants with an automatic transmission, paddles typically activate a manual mode that lets you decide when to shift; releasing the paddles or returning to Drive can return the car to fully automatic shifting, depending on the model and mode selection.

How to use paddle shifters: a step-by-step guide

Follow these steps if your BRZ is equipped with paddle shifters and an automatic transmission. Note that exact behavior can vary by year and market, so consult your owner's manual for model-specific details.

1. Place the transmission in Drive (D) or Sport (S) mode as applicable to your model. Paddle shifting is typically available in these modes and overrides automatic shifts when engaged.


2. To upshift, tap the right paddle. To downshift, tap the left paddle. The transmission will shift accordingly and remain in manual mode while you hold the paddles active.


3. After shifting, you can continue to use the paddles for subsequent gear changes or release them to let the transmission return to automatic operation if your driving mode allows it.


4. Watch the tachometer and speed to avoid revving too high on upshifts or over-revving on downshifts. Some BRZs offer rev-matching or engine-braking assistance on downshifts to smooth the transition.


5. When you want to revert to full automatic shifting, simply continue driving in Drive (D) or switch to a non-manual mode as your car requires; the transmission will resume automatic shifting.

Operation can vary slightly by year, market, and whether the car is in Sport or standard Drive. Always refer to the owner's manual for exact instructions for your vehicle.

Best practices for paddle shifting on the BRZ

These guidelines help you get the most from paddle shifting while maintaining smoothness and safety on the road or track.

• Make decisive paddle inputs rather than light taps to avoid partial or unintended shifts.


• Use paddle shifts to keep the engine in its power band during corner exits or rapid accelerations; don’t downshift aggressively in high-speed situations unless you’re prepared for revs and braking.


• Rely on the car’s rev-matching or downshift logic where available to ensure smooth shifts and reduced drivetrain shock.


• In daily driving, use paddles sparingly to maximize fuel economy and comfort; reserve manual mode for spirited driving or track days.


• Always stay aware of traffic conditions. Paddle shifting is best used when you have enough space and speed to execute a shift safely.

Even with paddles, the BRZ’s automatic shifting should be treated as a performance feature rather than a substitute for attentive driving. Practice in a safe environment to become fluent with the system.

Model-year and regional variations

In the United States, the BRZ has historically been offered with a manual transmission as standard, and an automatic with paddle shifters is not universally standard across all trims. Some overseas markets have offered automatic transmissions with paddle shifters in certain years or packages. Always verify the exact specification for your year and region by checking the dealer's build sheet, VIN, or the official Subaru BRZ brochure for your market.

Summary

Paddle shifters on a Subaru BRZ provide manual control of gear selection when the car is equipped with an automatic transmission that offers this feature. The standard convention is that the right paddle upshifts and the left paddle downshifts. Availability varies by model year and market, so confirm whether your vehicle has paddles. If paddles are not present, you’ll rely on the standard automatic or the manual transmission for shifting. For models with paddles, use them to enhance throttle response and control in sport driving, while always prioritizing safety and adhering to the owner’s manual guidance.

How do you activate the paddle shifters?

How do you activate the paddle shifters? With the gear selector in Drive, squeeze the paddle toward you with your fingertips for either a downshift or an upshift. On most cars, the paddles are always active. In some cars, the shifter has to be slid into manual mode first, or there will be a button.

Does the BRZ have paddle shifters?

The 2022 BRZ features a reengineered quick-shifting 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters and downshift rev-matching so you can choose between daily driving convenience or high-performance control without your hands ever leaving the wheel.

How to use Subaru paddle shifters?

To use Subaru paddle shifters, tap the right paddle (+) to upshift or the left paddle (-) to downshift. You can do this while in "D" (Drive) for temporary manual control, which is useful for engine braking downhill or quick acceleration before it reverts to automatic, or by first shifting the gear selector to "M" (Manual) for complete control. 
How to use
This video shows how to use paddle shifters in a Subaru: 59sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Mar 17, 2022

• Upshift (+): To shift to a higher virtual gear, tap the right paddle. This is useful for increasing acceleration and can be done while in either automatic or manual mode. 
• Downshift (-): To shift to a lower virtual gear, tap the left paddle. This is useful for gaining engine braking, especially when going downhill, or for increasing acceleration for passing. 

Two modes of operation 
1. Temporary manual mode (while in "D") 

• How it works: Tap either paddle while in "D" (Drive) to temporarily take control of the gear selection. The instrument panel will display an "M" and the current gear. 
• When to use it: For brief adjustments, such as downshifting to use engine braking when going downhill or downshifting once to pass another vehicle. 
• How it ends: The system will automatically return to fully automatic mode after a few seconds of inactivity or if you accelerate heavily. 

2. Full manual mode (by shifting to "M") 

• How it works: Move the gear selector from "D" to the "M" position. The instrument panel will show an "M" and the gear you are in. 
• When to use it: When you want complete control and to keep the car in a specific virtual gear for an extended period. 
• How it ends: The car will remain in manual mode, but it will prevent you from over-revving the engine by downshifting too aggressively or upshifting too soon. 

How to use paddle shifters BRZ?

To upshift, tap the right paddle (+); to downshift, tap the left paddle (-). Your Subaru will respond instantly, giving you the power to adapt your driving according to conditions or preferences.