What is the BRZ known for?
In short, the BRZ is a compact, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe developed by Subaru in partnership with Toyota, celebrated for its balanced handling, low center of gravity from a boxer engine, and engaging driving dynamics at an approachable price.
Core characteristics that define the BRZ
The BRZ emphasizes handling and driver involvement over raw horsepower. It uses a flat-four boxer engine, a rear-drive layout, and a lightweight body to deliver a distinctive, predictable, and responsive driving experience. Below are the features most buyers and reviewers point to when describing what the car is known for.
- Chassis and weight: a lightweight, rigid structure with a low center of gravity that aids balance and cornering confidence.
- Engine layout: a Boxer (flat-four) engine that enables a low nose and compact dimensions, contributing to handling and brake feel.
- Drive system: rear-wheel drive (RWD) that rewards precision steering and throttle control, with balanced weight distribution.
- Transmission choices: a widely praised manual transmission for enthusiasts; an automatic option later added, with paddle shifting in higher trims.
- Handling philosophy: tight, responsive steering, tuned suspension, and track-capable dynamics for a car in its class.
- Value and community: affordable entry price in the sports-car category and a large aftermarket and tuner community.
These attributes combine to deliver the BRZ's signature driving experience: agile, communicative, and rewarding behind the wheel, especially on twisty roads or a track day, without demanding extreme power to be fun.
Generations and key specifications
First generation (2012–2020)
The original BRZ launched in 2012 as a joint development between Subaru and Toyota. It used a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-four engine producing about 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. It emphasized light weight (roughly 2,800 pounds) and a balanced chassis, with a standard six-speed manual (and an automatic available in some markets). Its appeal lay in purist driving dynamics rather than straight-line speed, making it popular on roads and tracks alike.
Second generation (2022–present)
The current generation arrived with a larger 2.4-liter boxer engine, the FA24, delivering around 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It also gained revised styling, updated interior and safety features, and continues to offer a manual transmission alongside an automatic option. The second generation improves on refinement and performance while preserving the car's lightweight, rear-drive ethos.
Notable changes between generations include more power and torque, updated drivetrain and chassis tuning, and modernized technology, all while keeping the BRZ's focus on driver engagement and handling balance.
Why the BRZ matters to the market
Across generations, the BRZ has carved out a niche for buyers who want a straightforward, affordable sports coupe that prioritizes steering feel, throttle response, and cornering precision. It sits alongside its Toyota GR86 sibling as a common platform that demonstrates the viability of lightweight, rear-drive sports cars in an era of high-performance SUVs and crossovers. Its aftermarket support, reliability record, and community around track days have helped sustain its place in the market.
Summary
The BRZ is known for offering a driver-focused package: a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive chassis with a boxer engine and manual transmission that reward skill and throttle modulation, all at a relatively accessible price point. Its enduring appeal lies in its precise handling, strong aftermarket ecosystem, and the pure joy of cornering rhythm that defines the car for enthusiasts.
