2023 Subaru BRZ
The Subaru name might forever be linked to practicality, reliability, and versatility, but the automaker has far more to offer beyond best-sellers like the Forester and Outback. Subaru's best-kept secret, which isn't a secret to die-hard Subaru fans, is its need for speed and its ability to deliver. This need is the premise for the 2023 Subaru BRZ, a sports car that blends capability with affordability.
Starting at $28,595, the 2023 BRZ is one of the most affordable high-performance sports cars on the market. [a] It makes satisfying the need for speed affordable and accessible to the masses, which is something few automakers have accomplished in a sports car market filled with high-priced models that require deep pockets. So how does Subaru accomplish such a feat?
Remarkably lightweight and nimble, the BRZ embodies Subaru's engineering ingenuity by combining the reliability and capability of Subaru's 2.4L flat-four engine with components like a Torsen limited-slip differential that optimizes handling and performance, begging for winding roads and tight curves. But, more importantly, this capability and handling do not come at the cost of practicality, which is precisely what proves the BRZ is a Subaru. Its cockpit is compact and innovative, but the versatile design and rear jump seat add convenience and make it capable of hauling everything from groceries to a set of sticky tires destined for the track.
What else can you expect from the BRZ in 2023? Building on a legacy of awards, including a place on Car and Driver's "10Best" list in 2022, the BRZ is a sports car built by enthusiasts for enthusiasts without the high sticker price. Here's more of what makes the 2023 BRZ incredibly enticing, from its power and capability to its cutting-edge technology and beyond.
MSRP: $28,595 [a]
Horsepower (hp): 228
0-60 Time (s): 5.4
Manual Transmission: Avl.
Performance
A Boxer Heart
Subaru is one of the few automakers to use a Boxer engine, a unique engine design that positions the cylinders in a horizontally opposed layout. The 2023 BRZ's 2.4L engine is a four-cylinder design that sets two cylinders on each side of the crankshaft. This positioning allows the pistons to move inwards and outwards simultaneously, mimicking a boxer's punching motion.
The BRZ's all-new 2.4L naturally aspirated Boxer engine is significant for several reasons. First, the engine layout is far more compact and evenly distributes weight, which is vital in a high-performance sports car. In addition, its design means that it can be positioned deeper in the vehicle, lowering the BRZ's center of gravity for enhanced performance and stability. It's also a notable upgrade from the previous generation's 2.0L engine, guaranteeing the 2023 BRZ delivers more power and capability than before.
Purpose-Built Performance
So, just how powerful is the BRZ's new 2.4L? Mated to either a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission or six-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode, the powerplant churns out 184 lb-ft of torque and 228 hp. That's more power than rivals like the Mazda Miata, Honda Civic Si, and Mini Cooper S. In terms of speed, this translates to a launch from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of around 140 mph when tested by the experts at Car and Driver.
Subaru enhances the BRZ's power and capability in several ways. The standard Torsen limited-slip differential optimizes handling by giving the sports car a confident grip on the road and predictable performance. Similarly, the independent MacPherson struts in the front and the independent double-wishbone suspension in the rear are track-tested and optimize handling, ensuring the BRZ can hug corners with ease and test its limits without missing a beat. The suspension also gives the sports car a firmer ride and a characteristically playful demeanor that makes for an engaging experience in the driver's seat.
Trims and Value
Affordable Performance
Subaru's BRZ is an enthusiast-inspired sports car at an affordable price, apparent in its starting MSRP of $28,595. [a] This modest price gets you behind the wheel of the entry-level BRZ Premium, which is far from basic. The base model comes standard with the 2.4L Boxer engine and six-speed manual transmission that you can upgrade to the available six-speed automatic with paddle shifters for a dynamic driving experience that mimics a manual transmission without the need for a clutch pedal.
Beyond the standard powerplant, the Premium also comes with LED headlights that optimize your visibility and Keyless Access with Push-Button Start for added convenience, eliminating the need to have your keys in hand to start the engine or lock and unlock the doors. There's also no shortage of technology, as the Premium is equipped with a standard touchscreen display with the Subaru Starlink Multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. In addition, you'll find wireless Bluetooth capability optimizes your focus on the road and gives you access to your favorite apps and features at the touch of a button or simple voice command.
Sophisticated Design
Moving up the lineup means adding next-level luxury behind the wheel of the BRZ Limited. The top-tier trim blends opulence, sophistication, and capability to give drivers the complete sports car package. It immediately distinguishes itself with larger, 18-inch alloy wheels and upgraded Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires that ready the sports car for the road. It also adds steering-responsive LED headlights that further optimize your visibility as you navigate every turn and straightaway in your path.
Inside, the Limited is all about luxury and comfort. Its authentic sports car design is accentuated by its leather and Ultrasuede-trimmed sports seats with red accent stitching. The molded seats put you in the ideal position for optimal visibility and control, whether you're cruising at highway speeds or racing around the track. Subaru takes this comfort to another level, adding heated front seats to the BRZ Limited that make your time in the driver's seat more enjoyable even in chilly winter months.
Technology
A Modern Sports Car
The 2023 Subaru BRZ is a modern sports car, so it's only fitting that it features cutting-edge technology that keeps you connected, informed, and safe. This technology extends from the Subaru Starlink Multimedia Plus infotainment system to the award-winning Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. But how do these features play a role in your experience behind the wheel?
The BRZ comes standard with an 8-inch center touchscreen display home to the Starlink Multimedia Plus infotainment system with smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system gives you access to your favorite apps, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, a rear vision camera, SiriusXM satellite radio, and audio streaming. With these tools always within reach, you can make calls, listen to your favorite playlist, navigate the fastest route, and more without shifting your focus from the road.
From Track to Street
Beyond the center display, you have a 7-inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel. The tachometer is positioned in the center and is flanked by vital vehicle information, which you can customize to your needs. For example, when you're running in Track Mode, the tachometer changes from its standard circular layout to a linear graph. You can also add a programmable meter that displays amps, lateral G forces, and coolant temperature so that you know how the BRZ is performing in any condition.
Along with keeping you connected and informed, the BRZ also makes safety a top priority with its active and passive safety technology. The award-winning EyeSight Driver Assist Technology comes standard when you opt for the BRZ with the automatic transmission. The suite equips the sports car with a Pre-Collision Braking System, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control. These features work together to optimize your visibility, enhance your focus, and minimize the potential for a collision at any speed.
Your Subaru BRZ Destination
The 2023 Subaru BRZ continues to impress as one of the most affordable high-performance sports cars you can buy. Subaru's knack for delivering practicality and reliability culminates in the BRZ with a modern twist that allows drivers to satiate their need for speed and on-road adventures without spending a fortune. As a result, the BRZ is everything you never knew you needed or wanted in a sports car until now.
Williams Subaru is excited to show you everything the BRZ and the Subaru lineup offers. In doing so, we'll welcome you into the Williams Subaru family and show you what it means to invest in a team that's constantly working for you. What does this mean in a world where every car dealership makes mile-high promises? It means working with a team that values integrity, accountability, and transparency.
We're not like most dealerships that rely on gimmicks and tricks to get you in the door. Instead, we like to build lasting and meaningful relationships to better serve our customers. Our expertise in the industry and Subaru's stellar reputation make it easy to showcase the many benefits of the Subaru lineup. Customers come to us with unique needs and are looking for someone who will listen and respond in a way that saves them time and money. That's where Williams Subaru excels.
Williams Subaru takes the age-old approach to buying a vehicle and, as Subaru does with the BRZ, adds a modern twist. We're dedicated to making the car-buying process exciting and fun. So instead of empty promises and high-pressure tactics, you'll find a team that's ready to get to know you, that's excited to share their passion for the Subaru lineup, and is renowned for delivering a bespoke customer experience that lasts long after you drive off the lot.
[a] MSRP subject to change. Please see dealer for details.
