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.
Mercedes-Benz was spotted testing a redesigned GLC-Class. The popular SUV looks to be growing in size for its next generation, and new proportions should also result in a sleeker, sportier look compared to the current model.
2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL63 Roadster spy shots – Photo credit: S. Baldauf / SB-Medien
Mercedes was also spotted testing a redesigned SL-Class. The new SL-Class will be sportier than its predecessor thanks to a lightweight soft-top roof and a chassis developed by the Mercedes-Benz AMG performance skunkworks.
2022 Ford Ranger spy shots – Photo credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
Another vehicle out testing this week was a redesigned Ford Ranger. The new mid-size pickup truck is coming up shortly, and this time the U.S. is expected to receive a high-performance Raptor variant.
2022 Hyundai Kona N prototype
For performance fans on a budget, Hyundai is cooking up a Kona N. It’s coming with a 2.0-liter turbo-4 and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and is expected to debut later this year, although its availability in the U.S. has not yet been confirmed.
2022 Nio ET7
Nio expanded its lineup with the ET7. It is the first sedan from the electric-vehicle startup, and it’s due to hit the Chinese market next year with battery options ranging up to 150 kilowatt-hours in size.
2021 Toyota GR010 Hybrid Le Mans Hypercar race car
Toyota this week unveiled its new GR010 Hybrid race car designed for the Le Mans Hypercar class of the World Endurance Championship. The automaker will also have a version with even more power designed for the road, a prototype for which has also been revealed.
2021 Toyota Land Cruiser Heritage Edition
We also spent a week with the 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser to remind ourselves why it’s the ultimate SUV for a select few and the wrong tool for the job for most consumers. Sadly, the 2021 model year is the last for the Land Cruiser in the U.S.
Cadillac Celestiq teased during General Motors’ 2021 CES presentation
And finally, Cadillac this week provided the first glimpses of its new flagship sedan, the Celestiq. The battery-electric cruiser is the true Cadillac flagship we’ve all been waiting for, though it will probably end up priced like an ultra-luxury model since Cadillac plans to hand build it in very low volumes.