2023 Subaru BRZ

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Rating5.9

Ranked #3 in 

Compact Coupe
Write Review
$28,595 - $32,795
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on August 8, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Small and lightweight

The Interior and audio system feel dated

No major changes in the 2023 generation

Enjoyable driving experience thanks to light steering

The major road noise problem

Part of the second BRZ generation

Responsive engine

Congested back seats

Acceptable ride quality

Specs & Features

$28,595

price

228 hp @ 7000 rpm

horsepower

184 lb.-ft. @ 3700 rpm

torque

6-speed Manual

transmission

2.4L 4cyl RWD 6M

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Key competitor of the Toyota GR86, and one of the most bargain-basement sports cars, the Subaru BRZ focuses on the lightweight body and affordability. It does not offer such performance figures, but what else does someone expect more than its affordability and the design it offers? Though, the mild engine produces a generous amount of power to steer the car faster. The car comes with only available Rear-wheel-drive architecture. A pure sports car for the masses, compasses with a light steering wheel, low seating position, and low center of gravity to feel seated in a performance-oriented vehicle.

Buying Advice

CARHP recommends the shopper select the Limited trim of the Subaru BRZ. It comes equipped with all the optional features and accessories of the Premium variant. 18-inch alloys along with the adaptive Cruise control help in good ride and handling Available heated front seats. help in cold weather conditions. Rear automatic braking along with the Subaru Starlink communication services makes it a better option to consider over the Premium trim.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The 2023 generation of the BRZ is expected to remain unchanged except for some minor improvements in features. Subaru had already updated this coupe with yesteryear’s model. It will carry the same updated look as the 2023 generation of BRZ. The exterior resembles the Porsche and it will remain untouched. Adequate spacious interior to fit 2 people, and nice storage space to carry groceries. Last year's reimagined interior carries on with more features and practicality. The smoother 2.4L engine sounds pleasing and delivers sufficient mileage figures. The newest BRZ will be racing against the Toyota GR86, the Hyundai Veloster, and the Chevrolet Camaro.

Features
7.0/10

The Subaru BRZ is available in 2 trim levels. The Premium and the Limited. Both of the models are motivated by a single 2.4L I4 engine, which pairs with the standard 6-speed manual transmission. The automatic transmission takes the car's price a little higher. The BRZ only offers a rear-wheel drive (RWD) system.

Trims 

2023

Subaru BRZ

Premium

2023

Subaru BRZ

Limited

MSRP (manual)

$ 29,615

$ 32,115

MSRP (automatic)

$ 31,115

$ 33,815

Key Features 

17-inch alloy wheels with summer tires

18-inch wheels with high-performance summer tires

 

Dual-zone climate control

Heated front seats 

 

8-inch infotainment screen

Rear automatic braking

 

LED headlights

Adaptive headlights 

 

Limited slip-rear differential

Blind-spot monitor

 

Keyless proximity key and push button start

Simulated suede and leather upholstery

 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity

Subaru Starlink communication services

 

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Automatic high-beam headlight

   

Adaptive cruise control

Along with the features, the Subaru promises in the BRZ Premium manual variant, it gives an option to upgrade to an automatic transmission, where it delivers these additional features –

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for the transmission
  • The automatic emergency braking system
  • Automatic high-beam headlights

The Subaru also offers these accessories–

Interior Options

  • Auto-dimming mirrors
  • Sunshades 
  • Cargo tray
  • Exterior graphic kit
  • All-weather floor liners
  • Cargo net
  • Footwell illumination kit

Exterior Option

  • Door edge guards
  • Wheel lug nut and lock set
  • Vortex generator
  • Rear bumper applique
  • Wheel locks
  • Door scuff protector

We Recommend

CARHP recommends the shopper select the Limited trim of the Subaru BRZ. It comes equipped with all the optional features and accessories of the Premium variant. 18-inch alloys along with the adaptive Cruise control help in good ride and handling Available heated front seats. help in cold weather conditions. Rear automatic braking along with the Subaru Starlink communication services makes it a better option to consider over the Premium trim.

Release Date 

The 2023 generation of the

Fuel Economy
5.4/10

Last year replacement in the engine brought slight alterations in the fuel economy of the 2022 BRZ. The same 2.4L I4 engine delivers mileage figures of BRZ ( manual) like – 20 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highways, and 22 mpg combined. With a standard fuel capacity of 13.2 gallons, the range of BRZ is as – 264 miles when running in the city, 356.4 miles on the highway, and 290.4 miles combined.

The automatic models are fuel friendly and hence they achieve fuel economy of - 21 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highways, and 25 mpg combined. The automatic trim secures a range of - 277.2 miles in the city, 396 miles on the highways, and 330 miles combined.

Model 

2023 

Subaru 

BRZ

2023 

Toyota 

GR86

2023

Hyundai 

Veloster

2023 

Chevrolet

Camaro

MPG (city)

20 mpg

20 mpg

26 mpg

19 mpg

MPG (highway)

27 mpg

27 mpg

33 mpg

29 mpg

MPG (combined)

22 mpg

22 mpg

29 mpg

22 mpg

Fuel Capacity (gallons)

13.2 gallons

13.2 gallons

13.2 gallons

19 gallons

Range (City, highways, combined in miles)

264/356.4/290.4 miles

264/356.4/290.4 miles

343.2/435.6/391.5 miles

361/551/418 miles

The 2023 generation of the Veloster appears as the most fuel-efficient vehicle as it offers best-in-class fuel economy. The newest BRZ and the GR86 are identical twins. The Camaro offers the best in segment range numbers – thanks to its competitive mileage and the biggest fuel capacity in the comparison.

Interior
4.0/10

The interior of the BRZ devises a driver-centric approach. It does offer a four-seat format, but only front-row seats are mainly suitable for passengers. Second-row seats are either for kids or to carry groceries. The good-looking small car offers a handsome dashboard to see, but the materials used on it appear a little frivolous. Getting in and out of the car is tricky as it is very low to the ground. The lower center of gravity proposes good traction, but it is not good for a bumpy road. A full-size adult can feel restricted legroom even in the first row. Leather upholstery is comfortable to provide delightful comfort, but is not very supportive when going on long drives. The red bolstering on the seats showcases the sporty behavior of the vehicle. The front seat slides easily to accommodate kids in the second row. The vehicle has a total passenger volume of 77.2 cu.-ft. Interior controls are easily accessible and the infotainment touchscreen is wide and sharp. The BRZ does not provide an adequate amount of visibility out of the car. It lets in engine noise as well as road noise. Thanks to a tiny cabin, the Dual-zone climate control easily cools down the car. Meanwhile, the heated front seats on the Limited trim take a time to get heated, but after that, deliver a good warmth.

A fairly large cargo can occupy 4 tires and with folded rear seats, the space increases to carry more pieces of stuff. The steering wheel feels light and planted and offers a good response, but the paddle shifters start witnessing right after the 0-60 test. The center console consists of 2 cup holders, 2 USB charging ports and one 3.5 mm headphone jack. The Alcantara finish on the doors refers to a premium look, but it attracts dirt very easily. 

Model

2023 

Subaru 

BRZ

2023 

Toyota 

GR86

2023

Hyundai 

Veloster

2023 

Chevrolet

Camaro

Passenger Capacity

 

4

 

4

 

4

 

4

First Row (Head/shoulder/legroom

 

37/53.6/41.5 inches

 

37/53.6/41.5 inches

 

38.1/56/42.6 inches

 

38.5/NA/43.9

Second Row (Head/shoulder/legroom)

 

33/51.7/29.9 inches

 

33/51.7/29.9 inches

 

35.9/54.3/34.1 inches

 

N/A

Cargo capacity with rear seat down(cu.-ft)

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

44.5 cu.-ft

 

N/A

Cargo capacity with rear seat up (cu.-ft)

 

6.3 cu.-ft

 

6.3 cu.-ft

 

19.9 cu.-ft

 

9.1 cu.-ft

The Hyundai Veloster emerges as a vehicle, offering the most spacious interior. Along with the first and second rows, it is also good at giving the most amount of cargo space. The GR86 and the BRZ have copied interior spaces. Though the Camaro might not be having more room in the second row, it offers a comparatively larger cargo capacity. 

Highlights of the interior features of the BRZ include-

  • Driver footrest
  • Dual zone front automatic air conditioning
  • Fixed rear windows
  • Manually adjustable tilt and telescopic steering column
  • 6-way manually adjustable driver seat
  • 4-way manually adjustable front passenger seat
  • Valet Function
  • Glove box
  • Front map lights 
  • Delay-off interior lights
  • Cargo space lights
  • Power door locks
  • Air filtration
  • One 12V DC power supply
  • Fixed rear head restraint

How Intuitive is the 2023 Subaru BRZ Infotainment system?

The infotainment system on the 2023 BRZ features a standard 8-inch infotainment touchscreen that comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The dashboard of the BRZ acts as a hub for all the infotainment controls and buttons. Though the integrated navigation system is still missing. Two charging ports under the armrest are to charge your smartphone with ease. The infotainment system seems minimalistic but does not make every person who touches it. The only 6-speaker audio system helps provide mild sound quality. The system is not able to minimize road noises. The screen is moderately responsive and offers good visibility of the icons. It gets most of the tasks done without any hesitation.

Highlights of the infotainment system–

  • Subaru Starlink 
  • SiriusXM access
  • Multi-touch gestures display
  • Integrated roof antenna
  • Speed compensated volume control
  • Automatic equalizer
  • Radio data system
  • 6-speaker audio system
  • USB charging port
  • 3.5 mm headphone connector
  • iPod control capability
  • Hands Free text messaging connectivity
  • Steering wheel control switches
  • Voice-activated controls

Exterior
6.0/10

The exterior approach of the 2023 BRZ exactly matches the Toyota GR86. In both trims, the Subaru offers 7 colors of exterior options without charging an extra penny. The Subaru does a quite better job in wheel design and color choice than the Toyota.

The Premium trim gets 17-inch alloys, while the Limited looks fantastic in metallic grey 18-inch wheels with dimensions of 215/40/r18 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. The engine hood is lightweight. The front profile carries a Porsche Cayman-like fascia, especially with the standard LED headlights with daytime running lights, and turn signals. Furthermore, the Limited trim gets adaptive LED headlights. The functional front and side air intake vents aid in improving aerodynamic efficiency and maintaining a low center of gravity. The side profile looks unchanged, as the Subaru has not touched the wheelbase and platform. A sleek, wide, and more Porsche-looking design, that any driver would love to get their hands on.

Neither of the models appears to be blessed with a sunroof. The rear portion of the coupe looks almost the same as last year's updated tail lights, with a full LED design. The black bar strip connecting both taillights appears nice. The exhaust looks almost the same but roars great.

Model

2023 

Subaru 

BRZ

2023 

Toyota 

GR86

2023

Hyundai 

Veloster

2023 

Chevrolet

Camaro

Curb Weight (lbs)

 

2835 lbs

 

2833 lbs

 

2921 lbs

 

3351 lbs

Length (in.)

167.9 inches

167.9 inches

166.9 inches

188.3 inches

Width (in.)

69.9 inches

69.9 inches

77.9 inches

74.7 inches

Height (in.)

51.6 inches

51.6 inches

55.1 inch

53.1 inches

Ground Clearance (in.)

 

5.1 inches

 

5.1 inches

 

5.6 inches

 

4 inches

Wheelbase (in.)

 

101.4 inches

 

101.4 inches

 

104.3 inch

 

110.7 inches

The 2023 Chevy Camaro has the highest curb weight. It also carries the lowest ground clearance. The Veloster 2023 has the highest ground clearance and it has the widest body. With a mere difference of two lbs, the BRZ and GR86 have the same dimensions. The Camaro 2023 is the longest coupe in the comparison, it also possesses the longest wheelbase.

Highlights of the exterior features include-

  • Tire mobility kit
  • Clearcoat paint
  • Body-colored front bumper
  • Body-colored rear bumper
  • Fixed rear window
  • Light tinted glass
  • Speed-sensitive variable intermittent wipers
  • Lip spoiler
  • Trunk rear cargo access
  • Front fog lamps 
  • Outside rearview mirror
  • LED brake lights
  • Auto on-off projector headlamps
  • Daytime running light
  • Auto-leveling headlamps with delay-off

Safety

In the name of safety features, the BRZ offers a Subaru-suited Eyesight system and various other standard safety features that come with automatic variants. Subaru's Rear side Vehicle Detection(SVRD) detects another vehicle. With LED indicators mounted inside the mirror surround, Blind Spot Detection identifies vehicles approaching blind spots.

They feature add-ons the passengers and driver safety inside the vehicle–

  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Side impact beams
  • Driveline traction control
  • Tire-specific low-pressure warning
  • Dual stage driver and passenger airbags
  • Driver knee airbag
  • Backup camera
  • Airbag occupancy sensors
  • Front lap and shoulder safety belts
  • 1st and 2nd-row airbags

Competition

2023 Subaru BRZ vs. 2023 Toyota GR86

Both are the same cars, but will extra money, the BRZ is furnished with a more top speed. Both of the cars take the same amount of time to catch the speed, however, the Subaru is 2 lbs heavier than the GR86. The BRZ and the GR86 offer the same mileage and range figures. The front headlights of the BRZ are slightly different from the GR86’s. Based on the same platform, they share the same ground clearance, as well as the interior spaces. The interior of the BRZ comes with red stitching.

2023 Subaru BRZ vs. 2023 Hyundai Veloster

With a more $3000, the Velosters appear with more horsepower. The BRZ offers an RWD while the Veloster comes with an FWD architecture. With an enlarged wheelbase, the 2023 Veloster also devises more fuel economy and range figures. The BRZ has a lesser curb weight. The newest Veloster has more ground clearance, and it also offers more space to carry cargo. The BRZ is a little faster when it comes to completing a quarter mile run. It is also slightly longer than the Veloster.

2023 Subaru BRZ vs. 2023 Chevrolet Camaro

With a lesser price than the BRZ, the 2023 Chevy Camaro has offered more power and torque figures. It also makes 0-60 faster than the BRZ, meanwhile, the BRZ has a lot better fuel economy. 2023 BRZ, but the Camaro comes with a nicer range. The Subaru BRZ has lower curb weight and more ground clearance. The appearance of the Camaro looks more like a muscle car, while the BRZ carries a more sophisticated sleek look. Along with more length, the Camaro has a longer wheelbase.

Final Verdict

With comparatively more price than the exact GR86, it somewhere does not fit as a good choice. It still carries many notable features to impress the buyer. The engine feels a little underpowered, but it is a good fuel economy manager. Manufactured on the platform and wheelbase of GR86, the BRZ offers more top speed. Various other options like the new Chevy Camaro, as it delivers a good value for money if we do not care about expensive fuel.

Trims

    Premium
    $28,595 onwards
    • Engine: 2.4L 4cyl RWD 6M
    • Horsepower: 228 hp @ 7000 rpm hp
    • Torque: 184 lb.-ft. @ 3700 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.9 sec
    • Top Speed: 140 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 22 mpg
    Limited
    $31,095 onwards
    • Engine: 2.4L 4cyl RWD 6A
    • Horsepower: 228 hp @ 7000 rpm hp
    • Torque: 184 lb.-ft. @ 3700 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.4 sec
    • Top Speed: 140 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 25 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$44,640- $58,345

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

6.39

Horsepower

255 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque

295 lb.-ft. @ 1550 rpm

Capacity

2

Read Review

$28,595- $32,795

Gasoline

5.94

228 hp @ 7000 rpm

184 lb.-ft. @ 3700 rpm

4

Read Review

$30,090- $40,990

Gasoline

7.95

188 hp @ 6000 rpm

276 lb.-ft. @ 5200 rpm

4

Read Review

2023 Subaru BRZ vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    5.9 sec14.2 sec140 mph
    4.5 sec13 sec155 mph
    4.5 sec--

    2023 Subaru BRZ vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      20 mpg27 mpg22 mpg13.2 gal.264/356.4 mi.
      25 mpg32 mpg27 mpg13.7 gal.342.5/424.7 mi.
      19 mpg26 mpg22 mpg19 gal.-

      2023 Subaru BRZ vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        167.9 in.69.9 in.51.6 in.5.1 in.101.4 in. -
        172.5 in.73 in.51.1 in.4.7 in.97.2 in.
        62.2 in.73.6 in.51.8 in.4.7 in.100.4 in.

        2023 Subaru BRZ vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          6.3 cu.ft.77.2 cu.ft.-
          18.5 cu.ft.151.7 cu.ft.83.9 cu.ft.
          10.2 cu.ft.50.9 cu.ft.10.2 cu.ft.

          2023 Subaru BRZ vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            SourceCompare
            -6.3 cu.ft.-
            10.2 cu.ft.10.2 cu.ft.10.2 cu.ft.
            83.1 cu.ft.18.5 cu.ft.83.9 cu.ft.

            2023 Subaru BRZ vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              --2815 lbs.
              19980 lbs.589 lbs.3181 lbs.
              -482 lbs.3457 lbs.

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