2024 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.

Adhering to the same basic formula as its predecessor, the redesigned BRZ is all about affordable, accessible driving fun. It's a four-seat coupe that's designed to be just as engaging on the road as it is on the drive to the track. A low center of gravity, a standard six-speed manual transmission, and a new 2.4-liter, 228-hp naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine contribute to the BRZ's ethos of balance over speed. A standard touch screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, a usable trunk, and a tiny rear seat add a dash of practicality to a sporty car. In addition to the new engine, other changes for 2022 include updated exterior styling, a digital gauge cluster, and suspension and chassis tweaks. Subaru's EyeSight suite of active safety features is available on versions with automatic transmission. For 2025, a "Sport" mode that sharpens throttle response is added to manual transmission models.