Why buy a Subaru BRZ?
For many buyers, the Subaru BRZ offers a pure, driver-focused experience at a reasonable price, highlighted by a balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and engaging manual shifting.
In this article, we explore what makes the BRZ appealing, the trade-offs to consider, how it stacks up against rivals, buying tips, and what ownership looks like in 2025, along with a quick summary to inform a decision.
Core reasons to consider the BRZ
These points capture what the BRZ does best for most buyers.
- Engaging driving dynamics thanks to a low center of gravity from Subaru’s boxer engine and a balanced chassis.
- Rear-wheel-drive layout that rewards precise steering and cornering feel.
- Lightweight design helps nimble handling and responsive acceleration at everyday speeds.
- Manual transmission availability provides a visceral, interactive driving experience (a six-speed is standard on most trims).
- Strong community and aftermarket support, making upgrades affordable and accessible.
- Competitive pricing for a two-door sports coupe, with a reasonable total cost of ownership relative to many rivals.
- Solid reliability and a straightforward maintenance routine typical of its brand family.
These attributes combine to deliver a focused, enjoyable drive that can double as a practical daily car for enthusiasts.
Trade-offs to consider
Pros come with a few compromises that matter to some buyers.
- Limited cargo space and compact rear seats, making it less practical for families or frequent luggage trips.
- Ride can be noticeably firm on rough pavement and less forgiving than grand-touring rivals.
- Interior materials and tech may feel basic compared with some European rivals in the same price range.
- Powerful enough for fun, but not the fastest in class; acceleration is competitive but not a standout.
- Insurance and running costs can be higher than non-sport cars, depending on location and use.
If you value daily usability and refined comfort over raw edge, these are important considerations.
BRZ vs key rivals
Two common comparisons help buyers weigh options before purchasing.
Compared to the Toyota GR86
Subaru and Toyota share the same platform and powertrain in this generation, so performance and handling are very similar. The differences come down to styling, cabin materials, available features, and minor tuning choices. The GR86 can feel a touch sharper in some trim levels, and buyers decide largely based on aesthetics and the package they prefer.
Compared to the Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Miata offers a lighter weight, superb steering feel, and a convertible option, which makes it a different flavor of driver engagement. The BRZ provides a more practical coupe body style with a fixed roof, more cargo space, and a calmer high-speed ride for daily driving, but may fall behind the Miata in pure nimbleness and edge-of-the-seat handling on twisty roads.
In short, the BRZ sits as a strong all-around sporty coupe, with the Miata appealing to purists who want a lighter, more raw road experience, and the GR86 providing similar performance with nuanced differences in feel and equipment.
Buying tips: what to look for when buying
Before you sign a deal, consider these criteria to maximize value and satisfaction.
- Transmission choice: manual is favored by enthusiasts; automatics are smoother in daily driving but may reduce engagement.
- Model year and updates: ensure you get the latest infotainment, safety features, and revised brakes/suspension if available.
- Condition and maintenance history: verify service records, especially oil changes and any warranty work.
- Ownership costs: estimate fuel, insurance, tires, and possible brake or clutch wear depending on usage.
- Warranty and certified pre-owned options: compare new vs CPO for long-term peace of mind.
With the right pick, the BRZ can be a high-value, long-term companion for an enthusiast who also needs a daily driver.
Ownership and cost of ownership
Understanding ongoing expenses helps gauge long-term value.
- Maintenance: routine service is typically straightforward, with genuine parts availability through Subaru and Toyota networks.
- Fuel economy: while not class-leading, it offers reasonable efficiency for a sporty coupe depending on driving style and transmission.
- Insurance: sports cars usually carry higher premiums; a responsible driving record helps keep costs down.
- Depreciation: the BRZ tends to hold value reasonably well among sport coupes, particularly when maintained well and kept in good condition.
Overall ownership remains competitive with other sport coupes when you factor in reliability and cost of maintenance.
Summary
The Subaru BRZ stands out for driving enthusiasts who want rear-wheel-drive engagement, a low center of gravity, and a manual transmission at a compelling price. It blends sporty handling with everyday practicality more than some rivals, though it sacrifices space, refinement, and outright speed compared with higher-end sports cars. If you value a focused driving experience, a supportive community, and a straightforward ownership experience, the BRZ is a compelling option to consider alongside its Toyota GR86 sibling and the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Why do people buy BRZ?
Exceptional Handling and Balance
Subaru's engineers designed the BRZ focusing on balance and stability, making it one of the best-handling sports cars in its class. The rear-wheel-drive layout and a sport-tuned suspension provide excellent cornering capability and a connected feel with the road.
What year to avoid BRZ?
The Subaru BRZ years to avoid are 2013 and early 2014 due to significant engine issues like valve spring recall problems and potential oil consumption. While there were other recalls and issues in later years (such as a 2018 fuel pump recall), the 2013-early 2014 models are the ones most commonly cited as years to be particularly wary of.
This video discusses the major problems in early models of BRZ/FRS/86: 58sShifting LanesYouTube · Apr 25, 2018
Years to generally avoid
- 2013 and early 2014: These model years had recalls and reports of significant problems, including:
- Valve spring recall: An issue where valve springs could fracture, leading to engine failure.
- Oil issues: Some models, particularly those produced before a certain date, had a tendency for oiling problems.
- Engine tuning and ECU calibration: Early models had a less optimal engine calibration.
- Other issues: Users report issues with power windows freezing, water leaks, and interior rattles.
Other years to be cautious of
- 2018: This year had a fuel pump recall and a recall for the rearview camera not displaying properly.
- 2019: Some 2019 models were included in the 2018 fuel pump recall.
What to do if buying a used BRZ
- Check for recalls: Before purchasing, use the VIN to check if any recalls have been performed.
- Be prepared for oil consumption: The BRZ can burn oil, so check the oil level regularly regardless of the model year.
- Consider newer models: Later model years, such as the 2017 and later, generally have fewer reported issues.
Is BRZ high maintenance?
This proactive maintenance plan helps avoid costly repairs and keeps the BRZ performing optimally for years. Over 10 years, routine and unscheduled maintenance costs average out to $6,848, which is notably lower than many sports car competitors.
Does the Subaru BRZ hold its value?
A 2023 Subaru BRZ has depreciated $6,288 or 23% in the last 2 years and has a current resale value of $20,977 and trade-in value of $18,527. The 2023 Subaru BRZ is in the 75-100% percentile for depreciation among all 2023 Coupes.
