Model Tested: 2015 Subaru BRZ Series Blue
Engine: 2.0-liter flat four gas, 200 horsepower 151 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel-drive
EPA Ratings: 22/City—30/Highway—25/Combined
Base Price: $27,695
As Tested: $30,285
Performance:
Peppy Subaru flat four engine
Good 6-speed manual makes best use of power
Nimble handling
Assertive exhaust system
Handles like an air-conditioned go-kart
Traditional RWD sports car character
AWD would be even better
Highway ride a little harsh, but to be expected
No Hill Hold like on many Subaru models
Comfort:
Narrow, form-fitting seats for secure positioning
Seats not good for wide-beamed individuals
Seating position is very low to ground
Entire interior is on the cozy side
Very nice soft suede upholstery
Stretch-out front legroom
Ample headroom
Driver seat height pump
Handsome blue stitching interior detailing
Very nice thick contoured steering wheel
Lacks steering wheel auxiliary controls
Two temperature heated seats
Very small rear seats and tall driveline tunnel
Difficult rear seat access
Utility:
Small glovebox space filled by owner’s manual
Slick perforated pedals and sill plates
Small, shallow trunk
Flat trunk floor
Useable folding seats and trunk portal
Small door bins
Not much small item storage
Big central tachometer with digital speedometer
Wow Factors:
Excellent driving fun
The BRZ thrives on twisty roads
Very nimble
Boy racer persona and styling
Whines:
Very small area for touch screen radio controls
Not easy to change channels without being distracted
Cheap headliner
Bottom Line:
The 2015 Subaru BRZ is much more about fun than practicality, but that’s why mini vans exist. The BRZ is a blast for two people and their luggage on a trek across America’s backroads. It’s passable for daily driving, but that’s not the optimum use of its merits.
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