Subaru Considering Electric BRZ for European Return
Subaru is contemplating bringing back the BRZ sports coupe to Europe in its third generation, with the possibility of it being electric.
The decision is part of a broader strategy to re-enter the European sports car market and appeal to the strong enthusiast customer base, according to company executives.
Since the first-generation BRZ in 2020, Subaru has not offered a performance car in Europe. While the second generation was launched in markets like the US and Japan in 2024, only its Toyota GR86 counterpart made it to Europe, and limited sales were attributed to stringent emissions and safety regulations.
David Dello Stritto, Subaru’s European chief, mentioned that the BRZ could make a comeback in Europe as an electric vehicle. “Our options are open,” he stated in an interview with Autocar.
Inoue Masahiko, Subaru’s global EV product head, also confirmed that an electric version of the BRZ is being considered, building on the brand’s partnership with Toyota. However, the timing of such a move needs to be carefully assessed to ensure mutual benefits for both companies.
Subaru has hinted at the concept of an electric sports coupe with the Subaru Sport Mobility concept unveiled in 2023.
While Subaru is currently focusing on family cars like the Crosstrek, Outback, and Forester, as well as electric models like the Uncharted, E-Outback, and Solterra, Stritto emphasized the need for strong performance from these models before introducing sports-focused vehicles like the BRZ to Europe.
Regarding the possibility of electrifying the current BRZ for the European market, Masahiko mentioned that it would be challenging due to packaging constraints, making an electric version a more feasible option.
Stritto also highlighted the impracticality of bringing a limited number of current BRZ models to Europe from a business standpoint, following the precedent set by the GR86’s limited sales.
