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What kind of suspension does the BRZ have?


The Subaru BRZ, a popular sports coupe known for its agile handling and driver-focused design, features a suspension system that plays a crucial role in delivering its renowned performance. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of the BRZ’s suspension setup and explain how it contributes to the car’s dynamic driving experience.


Overview of the BRZ Suspension System


The Subaru BRZ is equipped with a fully independent suspension system, which is designed to provide a balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort. This setup ensures that each wheel can react independently to road conditions, improving grip and stability during spirited driving or on uneven surfaces.


Front Suspension: MacPherson Strut Design


The front suspension of the BRZ utilizes a MacPherson strut design, a common choice for sports cars due to its simplicity and effectiveness. This design offers several advantages:



  • Lightweight construction: Reduces overall vehicle weight, enhancing performance.

  • Compact design: Allows for a lower hood line, improving aerodynamics and visibility.

  • Responsive handling: Provides precise steering feedback, crucial for a sporty driving experience.


The MacPherson strut setup in the BRZ is tuned specifically for sharp cornering and stability, making it ideal for track days or winding roads.


Rear Suspension: Double Wishbone Design


At the rear, the BRZ features a double wishbone suspension, a more complex and performance-oriented design. This type of suspension offers several key benefits:



  • Improved wheel control: Maintains optimal tire contact with the road, even during hard cornering.

  • Enhanced ride comfort: Absorbs bumps and road imperfections more effectively than simpler designs.

  • Superior handling: Provides excellent stability and grip, especially during high-speed maneuvers.


The double wishbone setup is a hallmark of performance vehicles, and its inclusion in the BRZ underscores Subaru’s commitment to delivering a thrilling driving experience.


Suspension Tuning for Performance


In addition to its advanced suspension design, the BRZ benefits from meticulous tuning by Subaru’s engineers. The suspension is calibrated to minimize body roll while maintaining a compliant ride, striking a perfect balance for both daily driving and spirited performance. Key features include:



  • Low center of gravity: Thanks to the BRZ’s boxer engine, the suspension works in harmony with the car’s low center of gravity to enhance stability.

  • Sport-tuned dampers: Provide precise control over suspension movement, ensuring the car remains composed during aggressive driving.

  • Lightweight components: Reduce unsprung weight, improving responsiveness and ride quality.


Conclusion


The Subaru BRZ’s suspension system is a testament to the car’s focus on delivering an engaging and enjoyable driving experience. With its MacPherson strut front suspension, double wishbone rear suspension, and carefully tuned components, the BRZ offers a perfect blend of performance and comfort. Whether you’re carving through mountain roads or navigating city streets, the BRZ’s suspension ensures you’ll enjoy every moment behind the wheel.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the life expectancy of a BRZ?


Although only a few owners have claimed to have driven their BRZs for over 200,000 miles, and there is little evidence to support these claims, many other owners have reported driving their cars reliably for between 170,000 to 180,000 miles – an excellent lifespan for a sports car.



What is the smoothest suspension system?


Air suspension utilizes air springs instead of traditional coil or leaf springs. It allows for adjustable ride height and stiffness, providing a customizable and smooth ride.



What kind of suspension does the 86 have?


Suspension design comprises front MacPherson struts and double wishbones at the rear. In 2016, for the 2017 model year, the manual transmission 86 was upgraded to 153 kW (205 bhp; 208 PS) and 212 N⋅m (156 lb⋅ft).



Why is Subaru suspension so good?


The responsiveness is silky, and it helps soften even the roughest pavement. You'll feel in tune with the road and control of your vehicle, thanks to the fact that it responds to bumps in the road without throwing off the vehicle's equilibrium.



What is the best Japanese car suspension?


TEIN (which stands for Technical Innovation) quickly rose to the fore as one of Japan's best car suspension brands. After winning the prestigious WRC Safari Rally with Toyota, they soon made their mark on the world too.



What type of suspension does Subaru use?


4-wheel independent suspension system
Each Subaru model comes with a 4-wheel independent suspension system, offering something for every style of driving. With the Subaru Outback and Forester you'll get exceptional ground clearance that still allows for smooth handling both on and off the road.



What is the suspension on the 2018 BRZ tS?


The tS employs German Sachs dampers that are tuned differently than those on the standard BRZ. They are 15 perfect stiffer in the front of the car and 3 percent stiff in the rear. The suspension setup as a whole has been retuned, resulting in 10 percent less roll reduction and 15 percent less pitching.



Does BRZ have double wishbone suspension?


The BRZ is designed to perform like a sports car should, with independent MacPherson struts up front and an independent double wishbone suspension in the rear.



What year to avoid BRZ?


Avoid: 2013 Subaru BRZ
As the first year of the BRZ in the U.S., it's not unusual for initial “teething” issues to arise, and the 2013 BRZ has more reported complaints than any other model year. Owners have commonly reported problems with the transmission, especially with noisy operations.



Why do BRZ engines fail?


Early on, forum critics suspected the popped engines were the result of oil starvation at the oil pickup, caused by a material known as RTV (room-temperature vulcanizing silicone). RTV is used in manufacturing to seal many components in the engine, like the oil pan, timing cover, heads, and valve covers.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.