It doesn't seem that long ago that we were cooing at the arrival of the Toyota-Subaru twins, a pair of almost identical rear-wheel-drive sport coupes that were lightweight, beautifully balanced, easy to drive, and quite simply a whole heap of fun. Well, it's been five years, and we're still huge fans of the 2018 Subaru BRZ. And after two consecutive years of upgrades, it's now easy to say that it's the more appealing of the twins.

If you're only considering the cheapest base versions of the twins, they're practically identical. But if you're looking for extra equipment and extra performance, the Subaru is the way to go. In terms of creature comforts, the BRZ Limited adds dual-zone climate control, push-button start, heated seats and, for 2018, a new 7-inch touchscreen complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also get access to the Performance package, which adds upgraded Sachs dampers and Brembo high-performance brakes for superior driving dynamics the 86 just can't match.

And then there's the new BRZ tS also introduced for 2018. Limited to 500 units, it adds a variety of chassis-stiffening components, a further-tuned suspension, and special exterior and interior design elements. Plus, since it was tuned by Subaru's STI group, a carbon-fiber pedestal wing is thrown in for good measure.

So, even if the BRZ is the better choice between the Toyota-Subaru twins, there are still flaws and competitors to consider. The engine is the main point of contention. Acceleration is fine on paper, but there's little midrange punch and you have to keep the rpm high to get the most out of it. That means listening to a lot of unrefined racket from the four-cylinder boxer. Competitors are better in terms of power, refinement, noise and even fuel economy. There's also something to be said for interior space and quality, plus some missing safety features. Be sure to look around a bit.

2018 Subaru BRZ configurations

The 2018 Subaru BRZ is a two-door sport coupe available in three trim levels: Premium, Limited and low-production tS. All of them come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive. With the standard six-speed manual, the engine produces 205 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. Those figures dip to 200 hp and 151 lb-ft with the optional six-speed automatic transmission.

Standard equipment on the BRZ Premium includes 17-inch wheels, summer performance tires, LED headlights, a trunk spoiler, heated mirrors, a height-adjustable driver seat, cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, a folding rear seatback, a 6.2-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, a variety of smartphone-streaming audio apps, a USB port, and an eight-speaker sound system with a media player interface, an auxiliary audio jack, a CD player and satellite radio.

Stepping up to the BRZ Limited nets you LED foglights, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, simulated-suede upholstery with outer seat portions in black leather, heated front seats, an enhanced trip computer display, a second USB port, and a 7-inch touchscreen that brings with it integrated TomTom navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Only the Limited can be fitted with the optional automatic transmission. Its optional Performance package adds Sachs performance dampers, Brembo high-performance brakes and gray-painted alloy wheels.

The limited-edition BRZ tS adds various body-stiffening elements, different STI-tuned Sachs dampers, black 18-inch STI wheels, the Brembo high-performance brakes, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, a pedestal-style carbon-fiber trunk spoiler, underbody spoilers, special black finishings on various exterior components, special Cherry Blossom Red accents exterior accents, and matching red leather on those seat portions that are black in the Limited. It does not have the Limited's LED foglights.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2013 Subaru BRZ (2.0L flat-4 | 6-speed manual | RWD). NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current BRZ has received significant updates last year, including revised suspension tuning and transmission gearing, a slight power upgrade, and the availability of such extra features. It belongs to the same generation, though, so our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's BRZ.

Driving

8.0

The BRZ has sports-car handling but an engine that struggles to get rolling. We love the way it drives through turns thanks to its classic rear-wheel-drive balance and effortless steering. A more powerful and refined engine would take better advantage of its dynamic capabilities.

Acceleration

6.0

The BRZ's four-cylinder is responsive, but it's not the easiest car to launch aggressively. Midrange power is noticeably lacking, and the top-end bump isn't enough to make up for it. Look for a 0-60 mph time of about 6.7 seconds, which is OK, but other coupes are noticeably quicker.

Braking

7.5

Initial brake impressions are very good. It's a firm but easy-to-modulate pedal, though when driven aggressively, the pedal feel becomes a bit wooden. The optional Brembo performance brakes may improve this aspect.

Steering

9.0

The quick and precise steering rewards smooth driving, and well-damped feedback from the wheel communicates how much grip you have at the front wheels. It's the kind of steering you'd hope to get from a back-to-basics car like this.

Handling

8.5

The BRZ's suspension tuning is more buttoned-down than that of its Toyota sibling, the 86. This refinement is enhanced further by the Performance package and the somewhat stiffer BRZ tS. In any event, the BRZ is lightweight and balanced. It's both easy and tremendously rewarding to drive.

Drivability

7.0

The clutch engagement zone is narrow, so it takes practice to shift smoothly. At midrange rpm, the engine falls short when you need it most. Longer highway inclines can't be pulled in sixth gear. Listening to the motor moan and thrash takes a lot of the enjoyment away from revving it out.

Comfort

7.5

To the casual enthusiast, the BRZ could be considered noisy and stiff, with a distinct lack of refinement and comfort-enhancing features (no power seats available). It won't be for everyone, but it's still far friendlier than past sport compact cars.

Seat comfort

7.5

The front seats wrap around your body like a glove without being too confining like some other sport seats. We found them quite comfortable on longer road trips. They do, however, lack the option of power controls or extra adjustments such as lumbar or thigh support.

Ride comfort

7.5

The BRZ's ride isn't punishing like a WRX STI's, and if measured against such sport compact cars, it could almost be deemed plush. When compared to other, less sport-oriented coupes, however, it is indeed on the firm side of things.

Noise & vibration

6.0

It's not that the engine is noisy — that can be a benefit in sport coupes — it's that it doesn't sound very good. There's also a ton of road noise, especially on the highway. Driving the BRZ long distances can get old.

Climate control

7.5

The BRZ can be equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, a feature not available on the Toyota 86.

Interior

7.5

Most controls are located exactly where you'd expect them to be, visibility is excellent, and the driving position likely spot-on. But don't expect to fit people comfortably in the rear, and materials quality is pretty spartan.

Ease of use

6.0

There are no hidden features, no secret Easter eggs, no hidden menus. Everything about the BRZ is clearly visible from the moment you get in.

Getting in/getting out

7.5

It's low, but the wide door opening and unobtrusive seat cushion make it easy to drop into the BRZ. Use the rear seats for bags and cargo since the aperture to get in or out of them is too narrow for most people to manage.

Driving position

8.5

Some drivers may struggle to find an ideal position (seat bottom tilt, please), but the vast majority should find the BRZ terrific. You sit low with a surprisingly upright position. The near-horizontal steering column is placed perfectly, though more telescoping range would be nice.

Roominess

7.5

There's ample room for even tall front passengers. Only small dogs and some grocery bags can fit in the back, so if you're looking for an expansive back seat, this probably isn't your type of car. If you're just looking for more than a Miata, though, you're in business.

Visibility

8.0

With a tall and wide windshield and a low hood, forward visibility is pretty good. The view out the back is a bit compromised, but the rear-quarter windows do help when changing lanes. A fairly high-resolution backup camera aids in the tightest quarters, but we wish the displayed image was larger.

Quality

7.5

There were no squeaks or rattles after a year of testing a BRZ, which is a good thing. So, too, is the faux suede on the dash and most trims' seats. But with a sea of black plastic, there's a dated vibe to the BRZ's cabin that could be a turnoff for some.

Utility

7.5

With a folding rear seat and trunk designed to hold a full set of wheels and tires and a small tool set, the BRZ doesn't have to be reserved just for weekend duty.

Small-item storage

7.0

Small, hard plastic door pockets and a center console tray with removable cupholders are all you get. The center console isn't covered by an armrest. A small bin forward of the shifter is too small to hold smartphones, and when push-button start is specified, it shrinks even further.

Cargo space

8.0

The trunk opening isn't gigantic, but it can hold a decent amount of shorter-size items. The narrow backseat aperture can make it difficult to slide wider items through. Lowering the rear seatback is only possible from the trunk, by pulling two lanyards simultaneously. It's not easy.

Technology

5.5

The two touchscreen options could be the main reason to choose a BRZ over the Toyota 86. Even the standard 6.3-inch screen is easier to use (especially its adjacent menu buttons). But the new 7-inch screen really steps things up with improved functionality, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Audio & navigation

5.0

The base touchscreen is fairly simple to use and doesn't frustrate as past BRZ touchscreens did. But upgrading to the 7-inch screen is recommended for its improved graphics, enhanced functionality and the presence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. TomTom navigation software is also included.

Smartphone integration

4.0

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come on the Limited and tS trim levels. All BRZs get Bluetooth, a variety of streaming audio apps and one USB port, with a second one added on the top two trims.

Driver aids

7.5

No advanced driver and safety aids are available on the BRZ beyond a rearview camera.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Subaru BRZ.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.01 reviews

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4(100%)

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2(0%)

1(0%)

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Finally get my BRZ

Frogman_Z,09/23/2018

though MT might be the top option in your head, give AT a chance. After test drive of both, I get the AT BRZ, mainly because of LA's traffic. Lol

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Features & Specs

MSRP

$28,445

MPG

21 city / 29 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed manual

Gas

205 hp @ 7000 rpm

MSRP

$29,545

MPG

24 city / 33 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

200 hp @ 7000 rpm

MSRP

$33,495

MPG

21 city / 29 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed manual

Gas

205 hp @ 7000 rpm

MSRP

$25,595

MPG

21 city / 29 hwy

Seats 4

6-speed manual

Gas

205 hp @ 7000 rpm

See all 2018 Subaru BRZ features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite BRZ safety features:

Side Curtain Airbags: Automatically deploy when the car has been struck from the side. Covers the windows of both rows and protects occupants' heads.
Vehicle Stability Control: Uses the brakes and reduces power to prevent accidents. A Track mode reins in this intervention to allow some sliding.
Brake Assist: Automatically applies full braking force when the car detects the driver is initiating a panic strop.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
Side Barrier Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front SeatNot Rated
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
Rollover5 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover7.1%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Good
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Acceptable
Moderate Overlap Front Test
Good

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Dealer Notes

4-Wheel Disc Brakes, 8 Speakers, ABS brakes, Air Conditioning, Alcantara Upholstery w/Leather & Red Stitching, AM/FM radio: SiriusXM, Automatic temperature control, Brake assist, Bumpers: body-color, Cargo Tray, CD player, Delay-off headlights, Driver door bin, Driver vanity mirror, Dual front impact airbags, Dual front side impact airbags, Electronic Stability Control, Exterior Parking Camera Rear, Four wheel independent suspension, Front anti-roll bar, Front Bucket Seats, Front dual zone A/C, Front fog lights, Front reading lights, Fully automatic headlights, Heated front seats, Illuminated entry, Leather Shift Knob, Low tire pressure warning, Navigation System, Occupant sensing airbag, Outside temperature display, Overhead airbag, Panic alarm, Passenger door bin, Passenger vanity mirror, Performance Design Front Heated Bucket Seats, Power door mirrors, Power steering, Power windows, Radio data system, Radio: Subaru STARLINK 7.0 Multimedia Nav System, Rear anti-roll bar, Rear window defroster, Remote keyless entry, Security system, Speed control, Spoiler, Steering wheel mounted audio controls, Tachometer, Telescoping steering wheel, Tilt steering wheel, Traction control, Trip computer, Variably intermittent wipers, Voltmeter, and Wheels: 17 x 7.0 Black Alloy w/Machine Finish. *Your additional costs are sales tax, tag and title fees for the state in which the vehicle will be registered, freight (see below for specific charges), any dealer-installed options (if applicable) and a $299 dealer processing fee (not required by law). Freight charges: $860 (BRZ, Impreza, Legacy, WRX); $915 (Crosstrek, Forester, Outback). Subaru Incentives cannot be combined with Subaru Special Rates or Special Leases. Prices are subject to change, and prior sales are excluded from these offers. While every reasonable effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this information, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions contained on these pages. Please verify any information in question with the dealer.

MSRP: $29,955

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More about the 2018 Subaru BRZ

The 2018 Subaru BRZ proves you don't have to spend a lot of money to have a blast behind the wheel. Nor do you have to have a ton of power or need advanced driving skills to keep yourself out of a ditch. The BRZ is fun, forgiving, and quite simply one of the best sport coupes on the road.

Last year saw it get even better with revised suspension tuning, a smidge more power and a newly available Performance package that includes upgraded dampers and brakes. That alone could be reason enough to choose the BRZ over its Toyota twin, the 86, but for 2018, it gets another reason. The BRZ's standard touchscreen was already far more user-friendly than the 86's frustrating Pioneer unit, but the new 7-inch Starlink touchscreen is better still. Besides its bigger screen area, it includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — features the Toyota 86 doesn't offer at all.

Despite these changes, the BRZ maintains those intrinsic elements that have attracted us from the start. It is a classic sports car with crisp steering and sharp handling that forges a special connection between the driver and the road. It makes a reasonably comfortable and economical daily driver, but it's as a grin-generating weekend car that the BRZ really stands out. Upgrading to the Performance package, or the new-for-2018 BRZ tS with its further chassis enhancements, only makes those grins broader.

At the heart of the BRZ is a 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder boxer engine. BRZs with the manual transmission generate 205 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque, though output for models with the automatic transmission remains unchanged, at 200 hp and 151 lb-ft. The EPA estimates the BRZ's fuel economy at 24 mpg combined (21 city/29 highway) for manual-equipped cars and 27 mpg combined (24 city/33 highway) for the automatics. The manual-only tS gets 23 combined (20 city/27 highway).

Rear-wheel drive is a rarity for the all-wheel-drive specialists at Subaru. And it is this method of power delivery that makes the BRZ fun. The car is exceptionally well balanced, which allows you to explore its handling limits at sane speeds. Subaru retuned the suspension last year, making it easier to probe those limits and slide the back end of the car around a bit, if that's your thing. The ride is not soft, yet those used to a sporty car (especially some of Subaru's past STI models) will find it fine for daily driving. The noisy cabin is less forgivable. Enthusiasts may gravitate toward the manual transmission but don't dismiss the automatic. It is a great companion for sporty driving, eagerly popping off smooth rev-matched downshifts to keep the engine on the boil.

The BRZ's interior is generally easy to use, and its controls are perfectly located. The front seats offer plenty of room and are quite comfortable, even if some extra adjustment would be nice. The back seat is best reserved for small dogs or packages, but that's better than what you'd get in some two-seat-only competitors. The trunk is also useful for some weekend luggage or groceries. As for cabin quality, you're unlikely to experience many rattles, but the materials themselves are hard and look a bit plain. The design is rather dated, too.

Subaru offers three versions of the BRZ: Premium, Limited and the limited-production tS. The Limited is the one we'd opt for given its better infotainment system and its Premium package option. Those same elements are found on the tS, which is definitely the top choice for driving enthusiasts with a healthier budget. In any event, Edmunds can help find the perfect 2018 Subaru BRZ for you.

2018 Subaru BRZ Overview

The 2018 Subaru BRZ is offered in the following submodels: BRZ Coupe. Available styles include Limited 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M), Limited 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6A), tS 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M), and Premium 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M).

What do people think of the 2018 Subaru BRZ?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Subaru BRZ and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 BRZ 4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 BRZ.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Subaru BRZ and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 BRZ featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

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2018 Subaru BRZ Limited 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

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2018 Subaru BRZ Limited 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M)

The 2018 Subaru BRZ Limited 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $29,955. The average price paid for a new 2018 Subaru BRZ Limited 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M) is trending $1,748 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $1,748 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$28,207.

The average savings for the 2018 Subaru BRZ Limited 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M) is5.8% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

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2018 Subaru BRZ Premium 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M)

Available Inventory:

We are showing 1 2018 Subaru BRZ Premium 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

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Should I lease or buy a 2018 Subaru BRZ?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

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2018 Subaru BRZ

2018 Subaru BRZ pricing

Which BRZ does Edmunds recommend?

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

2018 Subaru BRZ configurations

Trim tested

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Technology

Audio & navigation

Smartphone integration

Driver aids

Most helpful consumer reviews

Features & Specs

Safety

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2018 Subaru BRZ Limited 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

2018 Subaru BRZ Limited 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M)

2018 Subaru BRZ Premium 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M)

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