In a matchup you wouldn’t expect to happen, Officially Gassed brings together a 900bhp ESMotor Porsche 911 Turbo S and puts it up against Evolve Automotive’s 850bhp Audi RS3. Both have AWD, both have dual clutch gearboxes and both have extensive modifications but which is fastest? Time to find out.
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Since the original version launched, fans have been clamoring for a more powerful version of the Subaru BRZ, i.e. one fitted with a turbocharger, a la the WRX. But Engineering Explained host Jason Fenske is glad the redesigned 2022 Subaru BRZ doesn’t have a turbocharger. Here’s why.
The second-generation BRZ gets a 2.4-liter flat-4 engine, replacing the previous generation’s 2.0-liter unit. That displacement increase did yield more power. The 2022 model produces 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, compared to 205 hp and 156 lb-ft for the old model.
Subaru does have a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine good for 260 hp and 277 lb-ft, which is currently used in the Ascent, Legacy, and Outback. So why isn’t the BRZ engine turbocharged as well?
2022 Subaru BRZ
One reason why the BRZ is better off without a turbocharger, according to Fenske, is gearing. The naturally aspirated engine has a higher redline (7,500 rpm) than the turbocharged engine (6,000 rpm), allowing for more aggressive gearing. Those factors should lead to a more robust seat-of-the-pants feeling of acceleration, Fenske said, despite the BRZ engine’s lower output.
Adding a turbocharger to the BRZ might also be difficult. The Ascent has a bottom-mounted turbo, Fenske noted, a configuration that would be challenging in the BRZ, where the engine is mounted very low in the chassis. That keeps the center of gravity low as well, improving handling. The turbo engine is also heavier, negating some of its power advantage, Fenske said.
Finally, a naturally aspirated engine delivers better throttle response and throttle control. Modern turbo engines don’t suffer from the dreaded “turbo lag” of old, but they will never be as responsive as naturally aspirated engines. Plus, if you really want a turbocharged 2022 BRZ, the aftermarket will likely be eager to help.
With Honda offering a Civic Type R FK8 Limited Edition, it was time to get behind the wheel to find out whether it’s a touch gimmicky or whether this limited run of cars elevates the FK8 to a new level. Make sure you subscribe to our YouTube channel!
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The FK8 Limited Edition is a track-focused variant. Only 100 of these bumble bees are coming to Europe, with only 20 coming to the UK. It comes without the infotainment system, nor the air con. Limited Edition by name, limited by nature… Alongside this, some sound proofing has found its way to the bin and the result is a car that’s 47kg lighter. Oh, and it’s very yellow.
That weight saving doesn’t seem all that impressive from the off, but there are further changes, don’t worry. While the power hasn’t been increased, the suspension has been modified and now includes stickier track-focused tyres wrapped around lightweight BBS wheels. Honda decided to retain the rear seats unlike Renault in favour of everyday usability.
Power remains the same 316bhp and 295lb-ft of torque from the 2.0-litre, turbocharged four-pot engine with a 0-62mph time of 5.7 seconds and a 169mph top speed.
