2019 Subaru BRZ

SCHEDULE A TEST DRIVE

Affordable, Approachable Performance

Not every sports car is a fire-spitting, tire-destroying ball of fury. Enthusiasts know of the long tradition of small, affordable sports cars that emphasize enjoyment over outright speed, and that tradition is embodied in the 2019 Subaru BRZ. The BRZ gets back to the basics with a well-tuned rear-wheel-drive chassis, willing engine, and available manual transmission. What more do you need?

Performance

The 2019 Subaru BRZ represents a type of performance car that’s nearly extinct. It’s a simple, small rear-wheel-drive coupe, offering lots of fun at a relatively affordable price. The BRZ is one of the most accessible performance cars available.

It all starts with a rear-wheel drive chassis, which is a rarity in non-luxury cars these days. Subaru co-developed the BRZ chassis with Toyota, which uses it for its 86. The Subaru BRZ features reinforced strut tower braces, transmission cross-member plate, and rear wheel housings to improve rigidity.

Like all other Subaru models, the BRZ uses a boxer engine, which lowers its center of gravity and improves handling. The BRZ engine displaces 2.0 liters, producing 205 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can choose between six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. With the manual, the BRZ achieves an EPA-rated 24 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway), and the automatic is rated at 27 mpg combined (24 mpg city, 33 mpg highway).*

While some performance cars are all about lap times and bragging rights, the BRZ is all about fun. The rear-wheel-drive layout not only provides an ideal handling balance but also makes the BRZ a veritable track car. The Subaru sports car has enough power to get out of its own way, but not so much that it will overwhelm an unskilled driver. In fact, the BRZ is enjoyable to drive at any speed.

Features

The 2019 Subaru BRZ is a two-door, four-seat coupe. It’s available in three trim levels, priced starting from $25,795.**

The base BRZ Premium model comes well-equipped with standard features like automatic LED headlights, Subaru STARLINK™ multimedia system with 6.2-inch touchscreen, leather-wrapped multifunction tilt-and-telescope steering wheel, leather-wrapped shifter and parking brake boot, aluminum trunk spoiler, performance-design front seats, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The BRZ Limited model adds fog lights, heated front seats, Alcantara and leather upholstery, courtesy door lights, keyless access with push-button start, dual-zone climate control, and a full security system.

The optional Performance Package is available only on models equipped with the manual transmission and adds model-specific 17-inch black alloy wheels, Brembo® brakes, and SACHS Performance shock absorbers front and rear.

The BRZ Series.Gray starts with the BRZ Limited equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission and adds the Performance Package. It gets its own unique wheel color, exterior color, black badging, and foldable exterior power mirrors. This exclusive variant also gets interior accents that set it apart from the other trims.

Design

When it comes to design, the Subaru BRZ takes full advantage of its rear-wheel-drive platform. It features classic long-hood, short-rear-deck proportions, visually pushing the cab toward the back. Thanks to the boxer engine’s low height, the hood line is also pleasingly low and sleek.

The interior includes a 4.2-inch LCD multifunction display on the Limited model. Positioned to the right of the tachometer, it shows lateral Gs, accelerator position, braking force, steering angle, and oil and coolant temperature. It also includes a stopwatch for recording lap times. The steering wheel includes audio and Bluetooth® controls, plus paddle shifters on Limited models equipped with the automatic transmission.

Subaru notes that the BRZ offers a measure of practicality not available in other sports cars. The rear seats can fold to expand cargo space to 6.9 cubic feet. That’s enough room for four spare tires, a helmet, and basic supplies for a track day, Subaru points out. Alternatively, the rear seats can accommodate front-facing child seats.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2019 Subaru BRZ includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full array of airbags. It also features a backup camera on every trim.

Verdict

The 2019 Subaru BRZ is a performance car for the masses that doesn't compromise.

For more information or to schedule a test drive of the Subaru BRZ, contact us online or visit Herb Gordon Subaru at 3161 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

* EPA-estimated fuel economy. Actual mileage may vary. For Crosstrek Hybrid, EPA-estimated MPG equivalent on a full battery charge. Actual mileage will 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 Credit: Subaru