Subaru is well-known for its turbocharged, all-wheel-drive WRX and WRX STI. But in the 2013 Subaru BRZ, the Japanese automaker has done a full 180-degree U-turn from its familiar formula. Powered by a normally aspirated 200-horsepower 2.0-liter engine and propelled by its rear wheels, the BRZ is a remarkably balanced 2-door sports car. Lightweight and agile, it’s a sports car lover’s dream come true. Designed with Toyota (you may notice the striking similarities between the BRZ and the Scion FR-S), the BRZ’s engine and suspension are largely Subaru, while the styling and interior come from Toyota. The BRZ isn’t for everyone, however. Although it has a small back seat, the BRZ’s cabin is really only fit for two passengers. Technophiles won’t be impressed with the audio and infotainment system, which may be one of the least intuitive in the industry. There aren’t even steering-wheel-mounted audio controls available. But, if you’re looking for a fun sport coupe with great road manners, a wonderful 6-speed manual transmission and sleek good looks, the 2013 Subaru BRZ deserves at least a couple of test drives.
Autotrader’s Advice:
Unless you absolutely can’t live without heated seats and side mirrors (and the few other amenities), go with the base Premium trim over the Limited. It has everything you need to enjoy what the BRZ is all about, plus you can use some of the $2,000 savings to replace the underwhelming navigation radio with a nice aftermarket system.
What We Like:
Balanced chassis; communicative steering; comfy front seats; seductive styling; reasonably well-equipped for the price.
What We Don’t:
Engine could use more power; poorly designed audio system; no steering wheel audio controls; cramped rear seat.
Original MSRP:
$26,265-$30,000 (when new).
MPG:
The Subaru BRZ is powered by an all-new 2.0-liter boxer engine, meaning its pistons lay on their sides in a horizontally opposing configuration. The normally aspirated 4-cylinder generates 200 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. With the 6-speed manual, the BRZ earns an Environmental Protection Agency estimate of 22 miles per gallon city/30 mpg hwy. With the 6-speed automatic, fuel economy jumps to 25 mpg city/34 mpg hwy.
Standard Features & Options:
Subaru offers the 2013 BRZ in two well-equipped trims: Premium and Limited. Both trims come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and offer the option of a 6-speed automatic with manual shift control. The BRZ offers a modest trunk measuring 6.9 cu ft that can be expanded by folding down the rear seat backs.
The
2013 BRZ Premium ($26,265, when new) brings air conditioning, cruise control, power mirrors, one-touch up/down power windows, power door locks with remote fob, leather-wrapped tilt/telescopic steering wheel, a 65/35 split folding rear seat, limited-slip rear differential, HID headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels and a voice-activated touchscreen navigation system with Bluetooth, real-time traffic alerts, USB/iPod port and HD radio.
The
2013 BRZ Limited ($28,265, when new) adds fog lights, Alcantara and leather seat inserts, push-button start, a rear spoiler, illuminated sun visor vanity mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control and the Cold Weather Package that adds heated front seats and heated side mirrors.
Safety:
Every BRZ comes standard with anti-lock brakes, electronic traction and stability control and six airbags, including front, front side and side curtain. Although the government has yet to crash-test the BRZ, the independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has. The BRZ earned top marks in every test, including the moderate overlap front, roof-strength, and seat and head restraint tests. It also was a Top Safety Pick.
Behind the Wheel:
With only 151 lb-ft of torque, the BRZ isn’t going to deliver the same neck-snapping acceleration as its WRX brothers. But, thanks to its lightweight chassis, if you’re willing to get the revs up over 5,000 rpm and really work the 6-speed manual, the BRZ will bring a smile to your face every time you take it for a spin. Driving the BRZ reminds us of another old favorite, the Mazda RX-8. Wonderfully neutral in the curves, with precise steering, great brakes and tenacious traction, the BRZ is the kind of car you want to push through winding mountain roads for hours on end. Best of all, as an everyday driver, the BRZ is easy to live with. Its ride isn’t too harsh or jarring, the gas mileage is pretty good and its maintenance schedule is no more expensive than the average family sedan.
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