1It’s hard to believe I’ve been testing the back-to-basics Subaru BRZ sports car since 2013, the model year it was first introduced. It seems fresh every time because it is so simple but purposeful – a car designed for nothing but cheap thrills, despite being available with the latest automotive technologies. Car and Driver gave it a 2024 Editor’s Choice Award for Best Affordable Sports Car.
The BRZ was co-designed with Toyota, which produces a mechanically identical version called the GR86. They are only available as subcompact fastbacks that evoke the classic roadsters of the 1960s. Both are rear-wheel-drive and powered by Subaru’s perky 2.4-liter Boxer four, which can be ordered with either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic.
Both models were redesigned in for the 2024 model year to look slightly more substantial, with the 2.4 replacing the underpowered 2.0-liter Boxer engine, which was their only shortcoming. Although the larger engine’s 228 horsepower might not sound like much, both are so light that they feel quick, especially when equipped with the manual. Car and Driver clocked a 2024 BRZ from zero to 60 in 5.4 seconds, nearly a full second faster than the previous version.
But maximum speed isn’t the goal. Balanced performance is, which means sporty handling, too. With their low centers of gravity, they both corner very well and are especially rewarding to drive on the proverbial winding country roads.
Enhancing that this year on the BRZ is the return of the tS handling package that first debuted in the final years of the first-generation version. It stands for “tuned by Subaru Tecnica International” engineers, who Subaru said “applied decades of motorsport and performance design to create the new 2024 BRZ tS.” Features include an upgraded suspension, front and rear Brembo brakes, dark gray metallic-finished 18 X 7.5-inch alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer performance tires, and special trim.
That’s the version I tested for this review. Although the upgrades result in more precise steering and shorter stopping distances, the ride was not significantly stiffer than previous models, a relief considering the poorly maintained roads in my neighborhood. Some other vehicles I’ve tested with sport-tuned or track-oriented suspensions are compromised as daily drivers. But not the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS.
In addition to the performance parts, the BRZ tS also come with heated exterior power mirrors, an upgraded audio system that includes a two-channel amplifier and two additional speakers. Given all that, it is the top trim level, costing about $2,000 more than the Limited trim with automatic transmission, and $3,000 more than the Limited with a manual.
But Subaru has not forgotten about buyers on a budget. The manual is the base transmission, and all versions with it now come standard with the company’s excellent EyeSight safety system that includes blind-spot monitoring. That is especially helpful on freeways because the fastback design – although attractive – reduces rear visibility.
Speaking of which, the BRZ and GR86 are not hatchbacks but come with conventional and surprisingly large trunks. Although this may reduce practicality, it might reduce water leaks after years of hard use.
The interior of the BRZ is as close to an analog car as you can get these days. In an era of oversized displays and hard to use touch sensitive controls, it is only available with an outdated looking eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, accompanied by old fashioned buttons and knobs for basic functions. There’s a backup camera, of course, but the simplicity allows the driver to focus on the road, without being distracted by the digital wizardry on the dash.
Make no mistake, the BRZ and GR86 are both very small cars with low rooflines, requiring a little twisting and turning to get in and out of for anyone larger than a teenager. I got used to having the driver’s seat all the way back when entering and exiting, which was fortunately easy to do because it is manually controlled.
When the BRZ was first introduced, I expected competing manufacturers to jump on the bandwagon and begin producing their own affordable retro sports cars. Instead, just about the opposite happened. Although the slightly less expensive but more refined Mazda MX-5 Miata has continued, the Fiat 124 based on it is no longer available. Nissan redesigned the Z-car to more closely resemble the original model (although with a more powerful engine and all modern conveniences), but it is more expensive than the previous generation.
That leaves the 2024 Subaru BRZ as a best buy for anyone who wants a real sports car for not much money. With a starting price of $30,195 for the base Premium model, it has a great fun-per-dollar ratio. And even top-of-the-line Limited tS version I tested is a bargain at $36,465.
2024 Subaru BRZ
Base price: $30,195 (Premium)
Price as tested: $36,465 (Limited tS)
Type: Sports car
Engine: 2.4-liter four-cylinder (228 hp, 184 lbs-ft)
Transmissions: 6-speed manual (as tested); 6-speed automatic
EPA estimated mileage: 20/27
Overall length: 167.9 inches
Curb weight: 2,835 pounds
Final assembly: Gunma, Japan
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