Vehicle Tested
2013 Subaru BRZ Premium Coupe (2.0L 4-cyl. 6-speed Manual)
Driven On
3/6/2012
Ratings Summary
Subaru's BRZ gets an A rating on value alone. But let's be honest, it would be a lot more fun with another 70 lb-ft of torque and some real grip. That it's a terrific sports car isn't worth arguing. That it could be better is certain.
A
Performance
The BRZ isn't going to wow you getting on the freeway, but drive it in its element and you're going to have loads of fun -- more so than any other car at this price.
| Acceleration |
B
|
This car isn't a drag racer so keep your expectations aligned with its modest power. |
| Braking |
B
|
The brake system is sufficient providing repeatable, fade-free stoping power after miles of aggressive driving. |
| Steering |
A
|
Quick and communicative, the steering is one of the BRZ's most likable aspects. |
| Handling |
A
|
Spectacular balance, communication and control. Handling is the BRZ's specialty. It's hugely fun despite modest grip limits. |
| Driveability |
B
|
There's a good torque hit down low which provides adequate acceleration early in the rev range. |
B
Comfort
Comfort is good in the BRZ. There's little high-frequency movement unless the road surface is wildly uneven. And even then, thanks to independent rear suspension, the ride is better than a Mustang.
| Seating Comfort |
B
|
These are the best seats in any car at this price. Soft enough to for long journeys, firm enough to not feel soggy. |
| Ride Comfort |
C
|
With undeniably firm suspension tuning, there's a certain purposefulness to the BRZ's ride quality. But it's not so stiff as to be a hassle. |
| Quietness |
B
|
The BRZ's interior is sufficiently quiet. There's a subtle and intentional intake note during wide-throttle openings, but it's a good sound. |
B
Interior
The BRZ's interior is Spartan but adequately detailed for a focused sports car -- and you do get more than what comes in its brother the Scion FR-S. Material quality is sufficient and switchgear operates with adequate precision.
| Ergonomics |
B
|
Good gauge placement with the tachometer in the middle. All major controls fall readily at hand. |
| Ingress/Egress |
C
|
The BRZ is low and getting in and out is more difficult than in taller vehicles. It's a small price to pay for this coupe's abilities. |
| Space/Room |
B
|
If you're a really, really big driver then there will be challenges. Still, you'll have to be taller than 6 feet 4. Otherwise, no worries. |
| Visibility |
C
|
Even with the low hood line, visibility isn't as good as it could be out of the BRZ, especially over the shoulder. |
| Cargo/Storage |
B
|
Folding rear seats help, but there's ample room in the trunk for more than just a weekend's worth of bags. |
B
Value
The only other car that can match the BRZ on value is the FR-S. No other car offers its combination of rear-drive handling and entertaining power.
| Build Quality (vs. $) |
B
|
Material and assembly quality are average, but generally better than the FR-S. |
| Features(vs. $) |
B
|
Standard navigation is one way the BRZ makes itself distinct from its Scion FR-S twin. Limited style adds keyless ignition, foglamps, dual-zone climate control and faux suede and leather seating. |
| Cost |
B
|
This car could cost less, but we suspect pent-up demand has brought it to market at a price that's somewhat profit padded. |
| MPG |
C
|
At 22 city/ 30 highway the BRZ's EPA numbers are good, but not great. |
| Warranty |
B
|
The BRZ's warranty is average -- 3 years/36,000 miles basic, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain. |
| Ownership |
B
|
Subaru supplies 3 years/36,000 miles of roadside assistance with new BRZs as well. |
A
Fun To Drive
The BRZ defines fun to drive without going broke. That last part should always be part of the equation.
| Driving Experience |
A
|
This is a car that needs to be driven hard in the right environment to be fully appreciated. Drive it there and you'll understand. |
| Personality |
A
|
There are no quirks here -- just honest, textbook rear-drive fun. And if that gives it personality then it has plenty. |
