Subaru BRZ Review UK: Is It Still A Top Sports Car?

Hey guys! If you're in the UK and thinking about getting a Subaru BRZ, you've come to the right place. We're diving deep into what makes this sports car tick, how it handles on British roads, and whether it's still a top contender in its class. Let's get started!

What is a Subaru BRZ?

The Subaru BRZ is a compact, lightweight, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car. It was jointly developed by Subaru and Toyota, with Toyota marketing their version as the GT86 (and later the GR86). Known for its nimble handling, affordability, and simple yet engaging driving experience, the BRZ has garnered a dedicated following among car enthusiasts. The original BRZ was launched in 2012, and it quickly became a favorite for those seeking an accessible sports car that prioritized driving pleasure over outright power. The BRZ is powered by a naturally aspirated boxer engine, which gives it a unique sound and a low center of gravity, contributing to its balanced handling. Over the years, the BRZ has seen minor updates and special editions, but the core formula has remained consistent: a pure, unadulterated sports car experience. The BRZ's focus on driver engagement makes it a popular choice for both daily driving and weekend track days. Its responsive steering, communicative chassis, and well-tuned suspension provide a direct connection to the road, allowing drivers to feel in control and confident in corners. The interior is functional and driver-focused, with supportive seats and a straightforward layout. While it may not be the most luxurious car on the market, the BRZ prioritizes the essentials for an enjoyable driving experience. The BRZ is a testament to the idea that you don't need massive horsepower to have fun behind the wheel. Its charm lies in its balance, agility, and the pure joy of driving. Whether you're a seasoned track enthusiast or a casual driver looking for a bit more excitement in your daily commute, the BRZ offers a compelling package that's hard to resist.

Performance and Handling

When we talk about the Subaru BRZ performance, the focus isn't on raw horsepower but on how well it uses what it's got. The BRZ features a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine. In the UK, this engine delivers around 234 PS (about 231 horsepower). While that might not sound like a lot in today's world of turbocharged monsters, it's more than enough to make the BRZ a blast to drive. The engine loves to rev, and it's happiest when you push it towards the redline. This encourages an engaging driving style where you're constantly working the gears to keep the engine in its sweet spot. One of the BRZ's standout features is its handling. The car is incredibly well-balanced, thanks to its low center of gravity and rear-wheel-drive setup. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a great feel for what the front tires are doing. This makes the BRZ feel nimble and responsive, whether you're navigating tight city streets or carving through winding country roads. The suspension is firm but not harsh, providing a good balance between comfort and control. It soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road without sacrificing its sporty character. Body roll is minimal, even in aggressive cornering, which inspires confidence and allows you to push the car harder. The BRZ's lightweight construction also contributes to its agility. Tipping the scales at around 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs), it feels light on its feet and eager to change direction. This makes it a joy to drive on twisty roads, where you can really exploit its nimble handling. The BRZ is equipped with a limited-slip differential, which helps to improve traction and reduce wheelspin. This is particularly useful when accelerating out of corners, as it allows you to put the power down more effectively. Overall, the BRZ's performance and handling are a testament to the idea that less can be more. It's not the fastest car in a straight line, but it's one of the most fun and engaging to drive. If you appreciate a car that rewards driver skill and provides a direct connection to the road, the BRZ is definitely worth considering.

Interior and Features

Let's jump inside. The Subaru BRZ interior is all about function over flash. Don't expect a ton of luxury, but it's well-laid-out and designed with the driver in mind. The seats are supportive, which is crucial for those spirited drives. They hold you in place nicely when you're throwing the car around corners, and they're comfortable enough for longer journeys. The driving position is excellent, with everything within easy reach. The steering wheel feels good in your hands, and the gear lever has a nice, short throw. The dashboard is simple and straightforward, with clear and easy-to-read gauges. A touchscreen infotainment system is integrated into the center console, providing access to features like navigation, music, and smartphone connectivity. While the infotainment system isn't the most advanced on the market, it's functional and easy to use. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The BRZ also comes with a range of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels add features like heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and upgraded audio systems. Storage space in the BRZ is limited, as you might expect from a small sports car. The rear seats are tiny and best suited for occasional use or for carrying small items. The trunk is also relatively small, but it's large enough to accommodate a couple of suitcases or a set of golf clubs. One of the nice touches in the BRZ is the attention to detail. The stitching on the seats and dashboard adds a touch of class, and the aluminum pedals and footrest give the interior a sporty feel. Overall, the BRZ's interior is a pleasant place to be. It's not luxurious, but it's functional, well-designed, and focused on the driving experience. If you're looking for a car that prioritizes comfort and convenience, you might be disappointed. But if you're looking for a car that puts the driver first, the BRZ's interior will suit you just fine.

Reliability and Maintenance

Regarding Subaru BRZ reliability, it generally holds up well. These cars are built to be driven, and most owners report few major issues. Regular maintenance is key, though. The boxer engine needs its oil changes on time, and keeping an eye on fluid levels is always a good idea. Check the manufacturer's recommended service schedule and stick to it. Common maintenance tasks include oil changes, filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. It's also important to check the brakes regularly, as they can wear out quickly if you're driving the car hard. One potential issue to be aware of is the