A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.5
Comfort & Interior
3.8
Running Costs
3.9
Practicality
3.2
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a pure sports car that puts driving enjoyment above all else? The Subaru BRZ delivers exactly that in an increasingly SUV dominated market. This rear wheel drive coupe is built for enthusiasts who want genuine driving thrills without breaking the bank. The BRZ stands out from mainstream coupes with its boxer engine, perfectly balanced chassis, and traditional sports car layout. While rivals like the Toyota GT86 share similar DNA, the BRZ offers its own distinct character and Subaru’s renowned build quality. The lightweight design and low centre of gravity create handling dynamics that few cars can match at this price point. Whether you’re tackling winding country roads or enjoying weekend track days, the BRZ rewards skilled driving with pure mechanical feedback. This is a car that prioritises driver engagement over outright speed, making every journey feel special. For those seeking an authentic sports car experience without the complexity of turbocharged engines or all wheel drive systems, the BRZ represents excellent value in the affordable sports car segment.
What's the Subaru BRZ Like to Drive?
The Subaru BRZ centers around its naturally aspirated 2.0 liter flat four engine producing around 200 horsepower. This might sound modest compared to turbocharged alternatives, but the linear power delivery creates an engaging driving experience. The engine loves to be revved, delivering its best performance in the upper rev range. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes about 7.5 seconds, which feels brisk enough for real world driving while remaining accessible to newer drivers.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.0L 4-cylinder Boxer
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Power Output
200 bhp
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0-60 mph
7.5 seconds
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MPG Combined
36 mpg
- Boot Space
- 243 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Subaru BRZ: Comfort & Features
Step inside the BRZ and you’re greeted by a driver focused cockpit that puts everything within easy reach. The interior design is clean and purposeful rather than flashy, with well positioned controls and good build quality throughout. The sports seats provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable enough for longer journeys. Material quality is solid if not spectacular, with soft touch surfaces where it matters most.
It’s a purest’s delight: communicative steering, a beautifully balanced chassis, and engaging dynamics that remind you why driving can be truly rewarding. A modern classic.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Subaru BRZ?
For a sports car, the BRZ offers reasonable running costs that won’t destroy your budget. The naturally aspirated engine returns real world fuel economy in the mid 30s MPG, which is respectable considering the performance on offer. Insurance groups are moderate for the class, though they will be higher than family hatchbacks. The key advantage is that you get genuine sports car thrills without the punishing running costs of more exotic machinery.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Subaru BRZ
|
Toyota GR86
|
Nissan 370Z
|
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £28,000 | £28,500 | £32,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.0L Boxer | 2.0L Boxer | 3.7L V6 |
| Power | 200 bhp | 200 bhp | 328 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 seconds | 7.4 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 36 mpg | 35 mpg | 28 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 243 litres | 237 litres | 195 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Perfect balance, Great handling, Strong build quality | Near identical dynamics, Slightly sportier styling, Toyota reliability | More powerful engine, Mature design, Strong heritage |
Is the Subaru BRZ Practical for Everyday Use?
The BRZ makes some compromises in the name of sports car purity, but it’s more practical than you might expect. The 243 liter boot can handle a decent amount of luggage or shopping, making it viable for weekend trips or daily errands. The rear seats fold down to extend cargo space when needed, though the opening is somewhat narrow. Inside the cabin, you’ll find adequate storage for phones, wallets, and other daily essentials.
Absolutely love my BRZ. The handling is incredible and it puts a smile on my face every single drive. Yes, it’s not the most practical car, but the driving experience more than makes up for it. Build quality has been excellent too.
The Subaru BRZ stands out in the sports car market by prioritizing driving purity over raw statistics. It combines exceptional handling dynamics, solid build quality, and accessible running costs into a package that delivers genuine thrills. While it may not offer the most spacious interior or brutal acceleration, it excels in the areas that matter most to driving enthusiasts.