2020 Subaru BRZ

Subaru is known for no-nonsense SUVs with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Its cars frequently rank near the top of Consumer Reports’ Owner Satisfaction and reliability ratings, making some used Subarus a good choice. Along with all-wheel drive, Subarus are known for using a “boxer” style four-cylinder engine with opposing pistons that move horizontally. The design reduces vibration and gives the vehicle a low center of gravity. No Subaru would be considered luxurious, but most have options like heated seats and leather upholstery. Unfortunately, blind spot warning (BSW) and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) are often optional, so buyers must pay extra for important safety features. Subaru hasn’t offered a hybrid since the plug-in hybrid Crosstrek was discontinued in 2024. The Solterra, a pure EV based on the Toyota bZ4x, charges slowly and has short range. Popular sports cars like the WRX and BR-Z show the brand’s wilder side.

Developed with Toyota, the BRZ is Subaru's first rear-wheel-drive sports car. It features a 200-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Handling is super responsive, with impressive agility. In corners, the BRZ turns in promptly, with virtually no body lean, The steering is quick and well weighted, with decent feedback. Inside, the cabin is relatively plain, with well-bolstered front sport seats, but the stiff ride and elevated noise can be taxing. The vestigial rear seats are best suited for cargo. Early versions have a confounding radio, which was improved for 2016. Later versions also pack a bit more horsepower. The Scion FR-S, followed by Toyota 86 when the Scion brand was dropped, is essentially the same car.