Overview & Reviews

Over the years, Subaru has earned a loyal following for building vehicles that deliver steadfast practicality and all-weather mobility. But every now and again, this Japanese company gets in touch with its wilder side. The latest result is the Subaru BRZ, a small sport coupe that bucks many Subaru traditions.

For starters, the sleek-looking BRZ is only available with rear-wheel drive, a major departure for a company that prides itself on offering all-wheel drive as standard equipment. The engine isn't even turbocharged, even though Subaru typically applies this technology to its high-performance models.

For all this, the Subaru BRZ has a lot to offer as a performance model, including exceptional handling, sleek styling and compelling value. For the first time in more than two decades, shoppers looking for an inexpensive sport coupe finally have an excellent reason to buy a Subaru.

Current Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ is an all-new model for 2013. Mechanically, it's related to the Scion FR-S, as the two cars were co-developed by Subaru and Toyota. They share the same layout, general engineering and powertrain, yet differ in terms of minor styling details and feature content.

Standard equipment on the entry-level BRZ Premium model includes 17-inch alloy wheels with high-performance tires, automatic xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, keyless entry, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, fold-down rear seatbacks, cruise control, a touchscreen navigation system, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker sound system. Going with the top Limited trim level also gets you foglights, heated outside mirrors, a rear spoiler, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery with suedelike trim and heated front seats.

Both Subaru BRZ models are powered by a horizontally opposed, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a standard six-speed manual transmission or an available six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The car's acceleration is adequate, but many other performance cars in this price range are quicker. On the upside, the BRZ's fuel economy is quite good, and even with the automatic transmission the car achieves 28 mpg highway.

The BRZ has a simple, pleasantly styled cabin that features a blending of Toyota and Subaru switchgear and materials. It will seem a bit Spartan compared to some other sporty cars, but then this is supposed to be a back-to-basics sort of driver's car. The front seats are comfortable and supportive. There's a backseat, too, but it's really only suitable for children.

Where this Subaru BRZ sports car shines is in its driving character. Agile handling, precise steering action and powerful brakes add up to a thrilling driving performance. This car is wonderfully rewarding to drive around corners for novice enthusiasts as well as the more advanced.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 13 of 13.00

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  Fun Fun Fun - 2014 Subaru BRZ
  By malmel - May 22 - 7:27 am

  Im 64 years old, this car is a gas to drive. cornering, handling, is very tight. Ive been averaging 29 miles to a gallon. The bucket seats have nice supporting sides, instruments are very nice the controls are at your finger tips. I like not having all the horns and whistles on the steering wheel. The automatic climate control is very good too.

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  A pure drivers car for under 30K - 2013 Subaru BRZ
  By mightymeeple - March 8 - 11:05 am

  Others both professional and amateur have reviewed this car all over the internet. Let me confirm that the positive hyperbole is actually warranted. Incredible sports car for the money. If you are a car enthusiast, you must drive this car. Steering is quick and nimble, suspension is firm and confident, acceleration could be better, but who cares when you are giggling and grinning as you carve up any curve with confidence. The boxer rumble is nice, I wouldnt mind some more noise from the stock exhaust. Weak points are what you would expect: small trunk, small backseat, low entry into car tough for taller folks (Im 62" and can get in okay).

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  2013 BRZ Limited 6 Speed Manual - 2013 Subaru BRZ
  By nevijeff - January 17 - 6:48 am

  As mentioned by others a lot has been written about this car and most of it is true. The car is very well balanced and is great on the backroads. Power is adequate given the weight of the car too much more and it would affect the driving dynamics of the vehicle. Shifting is very precise and short just the way you want it but in the cold weather until the car warms up shifts from 1st to 2nd can be a bit clunky. layout of interior is fantastic seats are supportive but being sport seats can be a little snug for larger people. Back seat to me are just there to save insurance costs not very practical at all. Very well appointed for the money, stock tires are way too brutal over road transitions.