Is BRZ good for long distance driving?
The Subaru BRZ is a popular sports car known for its sleek design, agile handling, and affordability. But when it comes to long-distance driving, many potential buyers and enthusiasts wonder if this compact coupe is up to the task. In this article, we’ll explore the BRZ’s strengths and weaknesses for extended road trips, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your next adventure.
Strengths of the Subaru BRZ for Long-Distance Driving
The Subaru BRZ has several features that make it a viable option for long-distance driving, especially for those who prioritize driving enjoyment and style. Here are some of its key strengths:
- Fuel Efficiency: The BRZ offers impressive fuel economy for a sports car, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. This means fewer stops at the pump during long trips.
- Comfortable Front Seats: The BRZ’s front seats are well-bolstered and supportive, making them comfortable for extended periods behind the wheel.
- Engaging Driving Experience: With its low center of gravity, rear-wheel drive, and precise steering, the BRZ provides a fun and engaging driving experience, even on long stretches of highway.
- Compact Size: Its small footprint makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, such as crowded rest stops or urban areas along your route.
Challenges of the Subaru BRZ for Long-Distance Driving
While the BRZ has its advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider when planning long-distance trips:
- Limited Cargo Space: The BRZ’s trunk offers only 6.9 cubic feet of cargo space, which may not be sufficient for larger luggage or gear. However, folding down the rear seats can provide additional room.
- Firm Ride Quality: The BRZ’s suspension is tuned for sporty handling, which can result in a firmer ride. On rough or uneven roads, this may lead to some discomfort over time.
- Minimal Rear Seat Space: The rear seats are best suited for small children or extra storage, as they lack the legroom and headroom needed for adult passengers on long trips.
- Noise Levels: Road and engine noise can be more pronounced in the BRZ compared to larger, more insulated vehicles, which might be tiring on extended drives.
Tips for Long-Distance Driving in a Subaru BRZ
If you decide to take the BRZ on a long road trip, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Pack Light: Make the most of the limited cargo space by packing only essentials and using soft-sided bags that can fit more easily in the trunk or rear seat area.
- Plan Rest Stops: Take regular breaks to stretch and rest, especially if the firm ride quality starts to take a toll.
- Use Noise-Canceling Accessories: Consider using noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to reduce fatigue from road noise.
- Check Tire Pressure: Ensure your tires are properly inflated to optimize fuel efficiency and ride comfort.
Conclusion: Is the Subaru BRZ Right for Your Road Trip?
The Subaru BRZ can be a good choice for long-distance driving if you value fuel efficiency, driving enjoyment, and style. However, its limited cargo space, firm ride, and minimal rear seat usability may not make it the most practical option for everyone. If you’re traveling solo or with one passenger and enjoy spirited driving, the BRZ could be a great companion for your journey. For families or those needing more space and comfort, a larger vehicle might be a better fit.
At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help you keep your Subaru BRZ or any other vehicle in top shape for all your driving adventures. Contact us today for expert maintenance and repair services!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BRZ good for?
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The BRZ has tons of steering feedback, sure-footed cornering composure, and the ability to swing the tail out. Its ride quality is on the firm side but it contributes to the car's playfulness.
Can you sit in the back of a BRZ?
The BRZ has four seats. The front seats are comfortable, supportive, and reasonably spacious, even for taller drivers and passengers. The rear seats are better left in the folded position, because they don't offer much head- or legroom, even for smaller children.
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.
Does BRZ have good resale value?
A Subaru BRZ will depreciate 45% after 5 years and have a 5 year resale value of $19,255.
Is BRZ good for long drives?
It's perfectly fine as a daily driver even for long commutes. 6th gear is great for the highway and you'll get pretty good mpg. Just don't throw a loud exhaust on that'll rattle your eardrums out after driving it so much everyday... unless you like that sort of thing.
How many miles can a BRZ drive?
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.
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.
Is BRZ an everyday car?
This car makes mundane errands fun. The BRZ delivers attainable power without getting over your head.
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.
How often do you need to service a BRZ?
The recommended service intervals specified in the vehicle's Warranty and Service Handbook are for the earlier of a given distance or period of time. Your Subaru BRZ should be serviced every 9 months or 15,000 kilometres, whichever occurs first.
