Are BRZ fast?

The Subaru BRZ delivers brisk acceleration for a lightweight, rear‑wheel‑drive sports coupe, but it is not a drag-strip rocket. In modern form, the BRZ pairs a 2.4‑liter engine with a light, well‑balanced chassis to offer confident mid‑range speed and nimble handling. It's fast enough to thrill on winding roads and track days, while prioritizing handling and driver engagement over outright straight‑line speed.

How fast is the BRZ?

The following figures summarize typical performance for current BRZ configurations, noting that results vary by year, trim, tires, and test conditions.

• 0-60 mph: roughly 5.9–6.3 seconds with the manual transmission; about 6.3–6.7 seconds with the automatic.


• Top speed: around 140 mph (electronically limited in most markets).


• Quarter-mile: typically in the low‑to‑mid teens, about 14.3–14.8 seconds at roughly 90–95 mph.

In real-world driving, those numbers translate to brisk acceleration for a car its size, with most buyers feeling the pace most strongly in daily merging, highway passing, and on twisty back roads. Track conditions, tire choice, and driver technique can push results a bit higher or lower.

0-60 mph and acceleration details

On the road, the BRZ’s 2.4-liter engine delivers its peak output around its mid‑range RPM, giving lively surge as you wind toward the power peak. The manual transmission tends to feel quicker off the line for many drivers, while the automatic offers smooth shifts but often lands slightly slower times in pure acceleration tests. The car’s light weight and balanced chassis help the BRZ feel faster than its raw horsepower alone might suggest.

What factors influence speed?

Several design and setup choices shape the BRZ’s speed and how quickly it reaches those milestones. Here are the key influences.

• Engine and powertrain: The switch from a 2.0‑liter to a 2.4‑liter engine in newer BRZ models increases horsepower to about 228 hp and adds torque, boosting acceleration potential.


• Weight: The BRZ remains light for a sports coupe, typically in the high 2,800s to low 3,100 pounds, which improves power‑to‑weight and quickness from a standstill.


• Transmission: A 6‑speed manual vs. a 6‑speed automatic affects launch feel and shift speed; manuals are usually quicker off the line for enthusiasts, automatics can be steadier in some traffic scenarios.


• Tires and grip: Performance tires and suspension tuning directly impact traction during launches and corner exits, influencing 0‑60 and quarter‑mile times.


• Aerodynamics and gearing: Drag and rear‑end gearing influence top speed and acceleration at higher speeds; the BRZ’s aero is tuned for stable high‑speed cornering rather than straight‑line domination.


• Modifications: Aftermarket exhausts, intake, ECU tunes, and suspension upgrades can increase power or reduce weight, typically pushing acceleration and top speed higher—often with trade‑offs in comfort or reliability.

Bottom line: more power, less weight, and better grip generally translate to faster times, while the BRZ’s strength lies in its chassis balance and handling rather than pure straight‑line speed.

Practical takeaways for speed and handling

If speed is your primary goal, look for BRZ models equipped with the 2.4‑liter engine and a performance tire setup, and consider a manual transmission for the most engaging launch. If daily driving comfort or track days with more consistent shifts are your priority, the automatic may offer advantages in repeatable shifts and ease in traffic. Either way, the BRZ aims to deliver an engaging driving experience with strong mid‑range acceleration and crisp handling rather than a drag‑racing profile.

BRZ vs rivals: how fast does it feel next to similar cars?

In the compact, rear‑wheel‑drive sports coupe segment, the BRZ (and its twin, the Toyota GR86) sits close to the top for handling balance and driver engagement, with straight‑line speed that is competitive but not class‑leading in raw power. Here’s how it stacks up with common peers and close relatives.

• Subaru BRZ / Toyota GR86: Identical or nearly identical performance, since both use the same engine and chassis architecture; individual tuning and weight differences can yield very small differences in feel, but acceleration and top speed are similar.


• Mazda MX-5 Miata: Lighter and often more nimble with excellent mid‑corner grip; it tends to edge or rival BRZ in handling finesse, and some configurations can be brisk to 60 mph, but the BRZ has more straight‑line punch thanks to its higher horsepower.


• Turbocharged or higher‑horsepower rivals (hot hatches, small sport coupes): Cars with turbocharged engines can outrun the BRZ in a straight line, yet may not match its cornering balance and precise feedback; the BRZ’s advantage is predictability and driver connection in corners.

Overall, the BRZ’s speed is best understood as part of a balanced package: solid straight‑line performance for its class, combined with exceptional steering, chassis feedback, and cornering capability that make it feel faster than its numbers in real driving on twisty roads and tracks.

Real‑world driving: what to expect

For everyday use, the BRZ feels quick enough for confident highway merging and passing, and its lightweight, low center of gravity makes it enjoyable on winding roads. On a track or a back road, its real strength is precision and chassis feedback rather than raw horsepower alone.

• Daily driving: Adequate acceleration for fast highway merges; pleasant, predictable throttle response with a linear power delivery


• Track use: Excellent cornering grip and directional stability; tuned suspensions and sticky tires improve lap times and confidence


• Modifications: Many owners upgrade tires, exhaust, intake, and ECU tunes to extract more performance, though reliability and warranty considerations apply

When evaluating speed, consider what you value most: straight‑line kick, handling sharpness, or a balance of both. The BRZ excels at the latter two, while delivering respectable numbers in the former for its class.

Maintenance and reliability notes

To preserve performance, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and use quality fluids and tires. Regular checks on the engine, brakes, and suspension help ensure the car remains responsive and capable on spirited drives or track days.

Summary

The BRZ is fast enough to be exciting and engaging, especially when you value handling and driver connection as much as straight‑line speed. Its 2.4‑liter engine produces ample power for its lightweight chassis, delivering 0‑60 mph times in the mid‑to‑low six seconds range (manual) and top speeds around 140 mph, with quarter‑mile times in the low to mid‑14s. While it faces faster straight‑line rivals, its real strength lies in balance, grip, and precise steering—traits that make it a standout choice for enthusiasts who savor cornering and road feel. As always, exact figures depend on year, transmission, tires, and setup, so real‑world results may vary.

Is a BRZ or 86 faster?

Is the Toyota G86 faster than the Subaru BRZ? Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ performance is tied, as both models posted a Car and Driver tested 0-60-mph time of 5.4 seconds. They share the same specs and platform, leading to equal capabilities in both vehicles.

Is a BRZ faster than a wrx?

The Subaru WRX is generally faster in a straight line, while the Subaru BRZ is quicker around corners and has better handling due to its lighter weight and rear-wheel drive setup. The WRX has a turbocharged engine with more horsepower, while the BRZ has a naturally aspirated engine. However, the difference can be marginal in some situations, and overall lap times on a road course are often close. 
You can watch this video for a comparison of the WRX and BRZ's performance: 59sBen HardyYouTube · Feb 25, 2023
Subaru WRX

• Engine: Turbocharged 2.4L flat-four engine (271 horsepower) 
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive 
• Performance: Quicker in a straight line due to more horsepower and torque, providing faster acceleration 
• Handling: Capable, but more focused on a powerful all-around performance, including confidence in various road conditions 

Subaru BRZ

• Engine: Naturally aspirated 2.4L flat-four engine (228 horsepower) 
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive 
• Performance: Less powerful in a straight line, but the lower weight makes it feel agile 
• Handling: More nimble and precise, especially in corners and on twisty roads, thanks to its lightweight, RWD design 

Which one to choose

• Choose the WRX if: You prioritize straight-line speed, all-weather capability, and a more practical sedan with a powerful turbo engine for daily driving. 
• Choose the BRZ if: Your priority is a more traditional sports car feel with sharp handling, balance, and a focus on driver engagement on a winding road. 

Is the BRZ a good beginner car?

A Subaru BRZ can be a good first car for a responsible driver who wants a fun and engaging manual transmission experience, as it teaches valuable driving habits and is a reliable, safe choice. However, its two-seat configuration, cramped rear seats, and potential for high insurance costs and a tiring driving experience in traffic make it a poor choice for anyone who needs to carry passengers or frequently drives in stop-and-go situations.
 
Pros of a BRZ as a first car

• Teaches good driving habits: The manual transmission and lack of excessive computer assistance can help new drivers learn valuable and important driving skills. 
• Reliable and safe: The car is generally reliable and comes with modern safety features. 
• Fun to drive: It offers a sporty and engaging driving experience, which can make learning to drive more enjoyable. 
• Good gas mileage: It is relatively fuel-efficient for a sports car, with some models achieving up to 26 mpg combined. 
• Affordable: Compared to other sports cars, the BRZ is relatively affordable to purchase and maintain. 

Cons of a BRZ as a first car

• Not practical for passengers: The rear seats are very small and not suitable for adults or children, and the trunk is also small, making it difficult to transport large items. 
• Can be expensive to insure: Some insurance companies may charge higher rates for this type of car, so it's important to get quotes beforehand. 
• Tiring in traffic: Driving a manual in heavy traffic can be tiring and stressful for a new driver. 
• RWD handling: The rear-wheel-drive setup can be challenging for new drivers in slippery conditions like snow or rain, especially in the older model years. 
• Maintenance costs: While it has a good long-term maintenance cost average, it can have some high-cost repairs as the car ages, and some services can be complex. 

Why is the BRZ considered slow?

The BRZ is objectively slower in straight-line metrics than many modern turbo competitors, but calling it simply ``slow'' misses the point. It's a deliberately balanced, lightweight, driver-focused sports car where cornering capability, chassis feedback, and engagement are prioritized over peak horsepower.