Is a Subaru BRZ a good starter car?
The Subaru BRZ is a sleek, sporty coupe that has gained popularity among car enthusiasts for its balanced performance and affordability. But is it a good choice for someone looking for their first car? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of the Subaru BRZ as a starter car to help you make an informed decision.
What Makes the Subaru BRZ a Strong Contender?
The Subaru BRZ has several features that make it appealing to first-time car buyers. Here are some of the key reasons why it could be a great starter car:
- Affordability: The BRZ is priced competitively for a sports car, making it accessible to younger drivers or those on a budget.
- Balanced Performance: With a lightweight design and rear-wheel drive, the BRZ offers excellent handling and a fun driving experience without being overly powerful or intimidating for new drivers.
- Reliability: Subaru is known for building reliable vehicles, and the BRZ is no exception. Regular maintenance can keep it running smoothly for years.
- Fuel Efficiency: For a sports car, the BRZ delivers decent fuel economy, which is a plus for those looking to save on gas.
- Safety Features: Modern BRZ models come equipped with advanced safety features, such as stability control and a solid crash safety rating, which are crucial for new drivers.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While the Subaru BRZ has many advantages, there are some factors that might make it less suitable for certain first-time drivers:
- Limited Space: The BRZ is a two-door coupe with a small backseat and limited trunk space, which might not be ideal for those who need more room for passengers or cargo.
- Rear-Wheel Drive in Snowy Conditions: While rear-wheel drive enhances handling, it can be challenging to drive in snowy or icy conditions, especially for inexperienced drivers.
- Sports Car Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums for sports cars like the BRZ can be higher, which is something to consider for budget-conscious buyers.
- Firm Ride: The sporty suspension setup may feel too stiff for some drivers, especially if they’re used to softer, more comfortable rides.
Who Should Consider the Subaru BRZ?
The Subaru BRZ is an excellent choice for first-time drivers who are passionate about cars and want a fun, engaging driving experience. It’s particularly well-suited for those who live in areas with mild weather and don’t require a lot of passenger or cargo space. However, if you prioritize practicality, comfort, or all-weather capability, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Subaru BRZ can be a fantastic starter car for the right person. Its affordability, reliability, and sporty performance make it a standout choice for new drivers who value driving dynamics and style. However, it’s important to weigh the potential drawbacks, such as limited space and higher insurance costs, to ensure it aligns with your needs and lifestyle. If you’re considering a BRZ, take it for a test drive and consult with your insurance provider to get a full picture of what ownership entails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year to avoid BRZ?
2013
Avoid: 2013 Subaru BRZ
As the first year of the BRZ in the U.S., it's not unusual for initial “teething” issues to arise, and the 2013 BRZ has more reported complaints than any other model year. Owners have commonly reported problems with the transmission, especially with noisy operations.
Are Subaru good starter cars?
If you're a first-time car buyer, it's definitely a solid option to consider. Here's why: RELIABILITY: Subaru is known for making reliable cars, and the Impreza is no exception. It's like that dependable friend who's always there when you need them. SAFETY: This is a big one.
How long do Subaru starters last?
A Subaru car starter can give you around 90,000 starts before you should expect it to struggle, regardless of the mileage you drive.
Is BRZ an everyday car?
This car makes mundane errands fun. The BRZ delivers attainable power without getting over your head.
Is a BRZ a good starter car?
Absolutely! It will be fun to drive, reliable, easy to modify and play with, and it looks nice. For someone with the means, I'd say it's a great first car.
Why do BRZ engines fail?
Early on, forum critics suspected the popped engines were the result of oil starvation at the oil pickup, caused by a material known as RTV (room-temperature vulcanizing silicone). RTV is used in manufacturing to seal many components in the engine, like the oil pan, timing cover, heads, and valve covers.
How long will a BRZ engine last?
The community responded by sharing that BRZs can last for over 200,000 miles if maintained properly. Moreover, many users reported that their BRZs had reached high mileage without significant issues. Some users mentioned their daily-driven BRZs with 115,000 and 130,000 miles, respectively.
Which car is best for beginners?
Check out the list of best cars for beginner drivers in India:
- Maruti Suzuki Alto K10. The compact size, lightweight steering, and smooth handling make the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 India's most popular entry-level car.
- Tata Tiago.
- Hyundai Grand i10 Nios.
- Maruti Suzuki Swift.
- Renault Kwid.
- Honda Amaze.
- Toyota Glanza.
What is the life expectancy of a BRZ?
Although only a few owners have claimed to have driven their BRZs for over 200,000 miles, and there is little evidence to support these claims, many other owners have reported driving their cars reliably for between 170,000 to 180,000 miles – an excellent lifespan for a sports car.
Is a Subaru BRZ a reliable car?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 18% for the Subaru BRZ, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
