Loading

What is a Subaru BRZ classified as?

The Subaru BRZ is a compact sports car that defies traditional automotive classifications. While it shares some similarities with other sports coupes, its unique design and engineering make it stand out in the crowded sports car market.


What is the Subaru BRZ Classified As?


The Subaru BRZ is classified as a sports car, specifically a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. This classification is based on the car's lightweight, compact design, and emphasis on driving dynamics and performance. The BRZ is not considered a muscle car, sports sedan, or sports hatchback, despite sharing some characteristics with those vehicle types.


Key Features of the Subaru BRZ



  • Rear-wheel-drive layout for improved handling and balance

  • Lightweight construction, with a curb weight around 2,800 pounds

  • Boxer-four engine design, providing a low center of gravity for better cornering

  • Compact, 2+2 seating configuration with a focus on the driver experience

  • Tuned suspension and steering for an engaging, responsive driving experience


These features, combined with the BRZ's relatively affordable price point, make it a unique offering in the sports car segment. The BRZ is often compared to other compact, rear-wheel-drive sports cars like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Toyota 86, but it stands out with its own distinct personality and design.


The BRZ's Place in the Subaru Lineup


Within the Subaru lineup, the BRZ occupies a unique position. As a sports car, it is the brand's most performance-oriented model, offering a driving experience that is distinct from Subaru's more practical, all-wheel-drive vehicles. The BRZ is a collaborative effort between Subaru and Toyota, with the Toyota 86 being the BRZ's twin model.


While the BRZ may not be as practical or versatile as some of Subaru's other offerings, its focus on driving dynamics and enthusiast appeal has earned it a loyal following among sports car enthusiasts. The BRZ's classification as a sports coupe, combined with its unique features and positioning within the Subaru lineup, make it a standout choice in the crowded sports car market.

What is the Toyota equivalent to the BRZ?


The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ are sports cars that impress in these areas. Both cars are built on the same platform so unsurprisingly they have many similarities.



Is the BRZ a Toyota engine?


Toyota used Subaru's engine technology for its car, so both have the same 200hp 2.0-litre boxer engine, which is slightly different to the engines you'd find in most other cars except for many Subarus.



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?


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.



Is a Subaru BRZ fast?


But it does improve acceleration times significantly: The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS we tested with the manual transmission reached 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, considerably quicker than the previous-gen BRZ tS.



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.



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 considered a sports car?


The BRZ is built around the pure driving fun of a classic rear-wheel-drive 2-door compact sports car layout. It features a powerful 228-horsepower 2.4-liter direct-injection 4-cylinder engine for thrilling acceleration along with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 30 MPG**.



What is the Subaru BRZ classified as?


Toyota 86

Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ
ClassSports car (S)
Body style2-door fastback coupé
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive



What type of car is Subaru BRZ?


Subaru BRZ Overview

Chassis
ClassSports Coupe
Body StyleTwo-door sports coupe
Platform
LayoutRear-wheel drive


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.