2016 Subaru BRZ
New for 2016
Updates for the 2016 Subaru BRZ are primarily inside, where the BRZ benefits from a new STARLINK multimedia system, complete with a 6.2-inch touch display and standard rearview camera.
Back to Basics Fun
Subaru may be known for tough all-wheel drive utility vehicles and sedans, but that doesn’t mean it can’t try new things. With rear-wheel drive and a lightweight, 2+2 body, the 2016 Subaru BRZ proves that this carmaker’s talents are many.
With the BRZ, Subaru sought to emphasize driving fun by building an elemental car with all of the fat trimmed. The BRZ is back-to-basics take on the sports coupe. Its nimble handling and fun-loving performance will provide an entertaining drive on just about any road.
Powertrain and Performance
As a collaboration between Subaru and Toyota, the BRZ’s powertrain incorporates the best from both companies’ areas of expertise.
The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine features Subaru’s signature boxer configuration, with the cylinders parallel to the ground for a low-profile package. On top of that, the engine has a Toyota-developed fuel injection system that combines direct and port injection for maximum efficiency.
The result is a healthy 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque which, in proper sports car fashion, is sent to the rear wheels. Buyers can choose between six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
That combination of rear-wheel drive and a lightweight, two-seater body with a low center of gravity makes the BRZ tons of fun to chuck around corners. This is a car that doesn’t require extralegal speeds to fully appreciate.
The BRZ may focus on performance, but that doesn’t mean it completely ignores practical considerations. EPA-rated fuel economy with the manual transmission is an impressive 25 mpg combined (22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway),* while the automatic is rated at an even better 28 mpg combined (25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway).*
Features and Trims
The 2016 Subaru BRZ is a four-seat sports coupe that is available in two trim levels: Premium and Limited. Pricing starts at $25,395.**
Sports cars aren't always the most forgiving segment in terms of price and standard features, but the 2016 BRZ does away with those preconceptions by offering a robust list of standard features.
Premium models come with standard 17-inch alloy wheels, a limited-slip rear differential, LED running lights, cruise control, and a host of power accessories. Additional amenties include keyless entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and automatic bi-xenon headlights.
Tech features include the new-for-2016 Starlink infotainment system with a 6.2-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth® phone and audio connectivity, and rearview camera. The BRZ also helps drivers stay connected by intelligently integrating with apps on your phone, including Aha Radio, Pandora, iHeartRadio, and Stitcher. Rounding out the list of tech features is an eight-speaker sound system with CD player, HD Radio®, and USB connectivity.
The BRZ Limited includes all the Premium trim's equipment (where applicable) and adds foglamps, a rear spoiler, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone climate control, and upgraded upholstery (simulated suede and leather). If that's not enough, an All-Weather package adds heated mirrors and heated front seats.
It's worth noting that for 2016, Subaru also offers a limited-production (only 500 will be made) HyperBlue edition (pictured above), which includes the Limited trim's features and adds special light blue paint, styling tweaks, black wheels, and a number of sporty/exclusive interior styling touches.
Design
The 2016 Subaru BRZ definitely looks the part of a no-compromise sports car, with taut lines and classic long-hood, short-rear deck proportions. “Hawk-eye” headlights and a wide-hexagonal grille give the car an aggressive face. The clean design is dressed up with dual exhaust outlets and side vents.
The interior is equally sporty. The seats are heavily bolstered to keep driver and passenger from sliding around during vigorous cornering, the three-spoke steering wheel is the perfect instrument for controlling that cornering, and the simple instrument panel cuts down on distractions.
While the rear seats are small, they can fold down to expand cargo room to a total of 6.9 cubic feet. That’s enough for four spare wheels, a helmet, and enough tools for a track day, in case you were wondering.
Safety
A car that promotes exuberant driving should be able to protect its driver from the limits of his or her talent, and that’s exactly what the 2016 Subaru BRZ does. Standard safety equipment includes: anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, front, front-seat, and side-curtain airbags. A reariew camera is now standard as well.
Bottom Line
With such an attractive starting price, nimble handling, and plenty of standard equipment, the 2016 Subaru BRZ proves that sports cars don’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable.
In truth, words don't do the BRZ justice. For a true represenation of the BRZ's quality, we encourage you to contact or visit us at Herb Gordon Subaru to schedule a test drive.
* EPA-estimated fuel economy. Actual mileage may vary
** Manufacturer's suggested retail price does not include destination and delivery charges, tax, title and registration fees. Destination and delivery includes handling and inland freight fees and may vary in some states. Prices, specifications, options, features and models subject to change without notice.
Image: Subaru