What is the drag coefficient of a Subaru BRZ?
The drag coefficient, Cd, of the current Subaru BRZ is about 0.29, indicating relatively low air resistance for a compact sports coupe. This figure helps explain the car’s balance of sporty performance and highway efficiency, and the article that follows places the number in context and compares it with its closest sibling, the Toyota GR86.
Understanding the number
In automotive aerodynamics, Cd measures how air flows around the vehicle's body. A lower Cd means air can pass more smoothly, reducing drag force at a given speed. Drag is influenced by Cd, the frontal area of the car, and speed, with the basic relation often summarized as Fd = 0.5 × rho × v² × Cd × A. The BRZ's Cd of 0.29 reflects careful shaping, smooth underbody panels, and integrated spoilers that help minimize turbulence and wake behind the car.
Key takeaways about the BRZ's drag characteristics:
- Cd is approximately 0.29 for current BRZ models (2022–present), with minor variation by wheel/tire package and trim.
- The BRZ and Toyota GR86 share most aerodynamic features and thus a similar Cd.
- Aerodynamic performance is also influenced by frontal area and ride height; the BRZ uses a compact footprint and thoughtful underbody treatment to maintain low drag without compromising downforce.
These factors illustrate why the BRZ remains competitive in its class for highway efficiency and top-speed potential while preserving sporty styling and handling.
How it affects driving and efficiency
Drag coefficient interacts with speed to determine how hard the engine must work to move the car through air. At highway speeds, a Cd of 0.29 helps reduce energy loss to air, contributing to steadier fuel economy and higher potential top speeds for a given power output. However, Cd is only part of the equation: real-world performance also depends on engine power, transmission, tires, weight, and drivetrain losses.
Comparison with peers
Among contemporary compact sports cars, the BRZ’s Cd sits in a favorable range. While some rivals may achieve slightly lower values, the BRZ prioritizes a balance of aerodynamics, handling, and everyday usability rather than pursuing extreme efficiency alone. Actual numbers for competitors vary by test method, wheel/tork configurations, and model year, so comparisons are indicative rather than absolute.
- The BRZ and Toyota GR86 share a nearly identical aerodynamic package, leading to similar Cd figures.
- Drivetrain, weight, and suspension tuning also influence how Cd manifests in real-world performance and fuel usage.
For buyers and enthusiasts, the takeaway is that Cd ≈ 0.29 is a competitive figure for a modern, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe, aligning with the BRZ’s emphasis on handling and drive feel rather than raw drag-focused efficiency.
Summary
The Subaru BRZ’s drag coefficient stands around 0.29, placing it among the more aerodynamically efficient entries in its class. This value results from a careful blend of body shaping, underbody features, and a shared aero package with the Toyota GR86. While Cd is a key indicator of air resistance at speed, it is one piece of the broader performance picture, which also includes weight, power, and driving dynamics. For the most precise, model-year-specific figures, consult official Subaru specifications or window stickers.
