Subaru BRZ review

From £32,020

This is an old-school, driver-focused sports car, with a 2.0-litre engine at the front, rear-wheel-drive dynamics and a superb driving position.

  • Subaru BRZ
  • For: Handling, steering, equipment
  • Against: Engine needs revving, cabin quality
  • Verdict: Brilliant old-school sports car offering rear-wheel-drive fun

The Subaru BRZ is one of the best sports cars of the past decade.

It was developed alongside the Toyota GT86, and both cars share the vast majority of parts. However, because the GT86 far outsells its Subaru cousin, you’ll benefit from a degree of exclusivity.

This is an old-school, driver-focused sports car, with a 2.0-litre engine at the front, rear-wheel-drive dynamics and a superb driving position.

It’s not as practical as a hot hatchback, but that’s hardly the point. The boot is adequate and there are a couple of rear seats, which are suitable for small children.

The flat-four engine needs revving to get the best from it, but that only adds to the appeal.

There’s only one trim level, which is loaded with standard equipment, plus you get the reassurance of Subaru’s excellent five-year/100,000-mile warranty.

Only cabin quality lets the BRZ down.

KEY INFO

  • Launched: 2012
  • Facelifted: 2017
  • Due for replacement: 2021
Specs
Model: Subaru BRZ
Prices from: £32,020
Engines: 2.0
Gearboxes: 6-speed manual, 6-speed auto
Bodystyles: Coupe
Trims: SE Lux
Euro NCAP: Not tested
Power: 197 hp
0-62mph: 7.6-8.2 seconds
CO2: 191-193 g/km
Dimensions (l/w/h): 4,240/1,775/1,425 mm
Boot capacity: 243 litres
Warranty: 5yrs/100,000 miles