2020 Subaru BRZ Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
With a starting MSRP of less than $30,000, the 2020 Subaru BRZ remains one of the most affordable sports cars in America. While the BRZ is a fun and economical daily-driver, available performance upgrades transform it a serious performer on the track. Easy-to-use interior features make the new BRZ even more rewarding to drive. Because the BRZ looks so sleek and powerful, it appeals to a lot of young driving enthusiasts.
What’s New for 2020?
With a completely redesigned BRZ scheduled to arrive in the near future, Subaru decided not to heavily update the 2020 model. However, the BRZ’s track-ready tS trim has returned to the lineup.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Subaru BRZ – The Pros
1. Good Choice for Inexperienced Sports Car Owners
Some of today’s sports cars are a bit too powerful for the average driver. Putting a 500-horsepower performance machine in the hands of an amateur is a recipe for disaster. The 2020 Subaru BRZ is a safe choice for any driver. Its “boxer” four-cylinder engine pushes out an enthusiastic 205 horsepower and just over 150 pound-feet of torque. While the BRZ packs enough performance for you to have some fun, its power is easy to control.
2. Superb Handling
Although the 2020 Subaru BRZ can’t match the performance of a Porsche Cayman, razor-sharp handling makes it a strong competitor. When test driving the new BRZ, you’ll immediately notice its athletic feel. The unique design of the BRZ’s boxer engine helps give it a lower center of gravity. Not even the curviest of roads can upset the BRZ’s stable driving dynamics. While the standard suspensions setup is great for daily commuting, optional Sachs shock absorbers further improve handling.
3. New tS Trim Comes Ready for the Track
There are only two trims in the BRZ’s lineup: Limited and tS. While the Limited trim is a pleasure to drive, true driving enthusiasts should go for the tS trim. Although the BRZ tS does not pack any extra power under the hood, it does come equipped with a number of track goodies. A Torsen limited-slip differential helps promote more grip when taking corners. High-performance tires and stiffer shocks also enhance the coupe’s agility.
4. Easy On Your Wallet
As mentioned earlier, affordability gives the 2020 Subaru BRZ a clear advantage over most sports cars. Even the top trim demands less than $33,000. A low cost of maintenance also makes this coupe a practical choice. Most of the key replacement parts are reasonably priced. Decent fuel economy gives you more reason to consider buying a new BRZ. According to the latest EPA estimates, automatic versions can deliver up to 33 mpg on premium fuel.
5. Offers a Fun Manual Transmission
Automakers are gradually starting to phase out traditional manual transmissions. Some of today’s drivers still prefer to shift their own gears as opposing to allowing a computer to handle the task. Fortunately, the 2020 Subaru BRZ comes standard with a great manual transmission. It allows you to keep the revs high when shifting from one gear to the next. Although the automatic version of the BRZ may save you a little more money at the pump, expect the manual-equipped BRZ to offer noticeably quicker acceleration.
6. Traditional Sports Car Body Style
The Subaru BRZ has the classic contours of a genuine sports car. A long hood and short trunk give the BRZ the perfect proportions. You’ll also notice the coupe’s low ride height, which helps give it an especially sporty stance. An aluminum trunk-mounted spoiler and twin exhaust pipes come standard. Meanwhile, red accent stripes help set apart the tS trim. Some of the standout paint options include Pure Red, WR Blue Pearl, and Ice Silver Metallic.
7. Comfortable on the Inside
Although the 2020 Subaru BRZ is focused on driving pleasure, it still provides a great deal of comfort. You definitely won’t mind using it for daily commuting. Drivers praise the BRZ for its surprisingly good amount of legroom in the front. Even tall folks will enjoy being behind the wheel. Well-bolstered sports seats help you to remain relaxed. They offer good lateral support. Great amenities, like dual-zone automatic climate control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, come standard.
8. Good Number of Standard Features
With last year’s Premium trim no longer being offered, buyers will now enjoy a few extra standard features. Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system is probably the biggest feature. It provides a 7.0-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to link your mobile phone, popular apps like Pandora are already included. An eight-speaker stereo system pumps out your music. Other standard equipment includes push-button start, dual USB ports, and a performance gauge cluster.
9. Surprisingly Amount of Storage Space
On paper, the 2020 Subaru BRZ does not have a large trunk. It only provides around 6.9 cubic inches of cargo space. However, a folding rear seat allows you to easily make room for extra stuff. If you plan to hit the track, there should be enough space for you to store an extra set of tires in the back. When grocery shopping, you will also appreciate the BRZ’s flexible storage area.
10. Simple Yet Effective Interior Design
The BRZ’s has a hassle-free interior. All of its key components are a breeze to use. Setting the climate control system only takes a few seconds. Many drivers will also appreciate the BRZ’s traditional gauges, which put your speed and rpm in plain sight.Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Subaru BRZ – The Cons
1. Toddler-Sized Backseat
A backseat gives the BRZ an advantage over rivals such as the Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, its rear seat is only suitable for toddlers who are strapped down in a child seat. Most adults will not enjoy sitting in its backseat. After only a few miles of riding in the back, you will quickly start to feel uncomfortable. If you need extra space for your passengers, consider buying a Subaru WRX. Four doors and a decent-sized backseat will make traveling more enjoyable.
2. Not a Great Sports Car for the Winter
All versions of the BRZ feature rear-wheel drive. While this shouldn’t be a bother to most people, it may be a factor for folks living in snow-prone areas. Expect to have trouble maintaining traction on slippery road surfaces. When wintry conditions come to town, you’ll likely need to keep the BRZ parked. The coupe’s low ground clearance also makes it far more likely to get stuck.
3. Could Use More Power
The 2020 Subaru BRZ’s 205-horsepower engine is strong enough to please most drivers. Nevertheless, it’s not much quicker than the typical family car. When stomping on the accelerator, you’ll reach 60 mph in around 6.2 seconds. Some drivers will ultimately desire a harder push under the hood. This car is not focused on providing a scorching performance. Handling is the BRZ’s main point of emphasis.
4. Missing Modern Safety Features
An adjustable traction control system comes standard on the new BRZ. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to get some of today’s most popular accident-avoidance systems. Like forward collision warning, lane keep assist is missing on the BRZ’s list of available features.
5. No Convertible
The 2020 Subaru BRZ is a coupe-only sports car, which puts it at a disadvantage against the Mazda MX-5 Miata. You won’t be able to ride with the top down.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition:
2020 Ford Mustang
From a price standpoint, the 2020 Ford Mustang is a good match for the Subaru BRZ. While the Mustang’s standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine cranks out a lot more power, there’s no overlooking the Subaru BRZ’s more impressive handling capabilities. A lighter design gives the BRZ a clear edge on twisty roads.
2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata is another good option. However, it feels far more cramped than the Subaru BRZ. Tall drivers will definitely favor the BRZ. There’s also less cargo space inside the MX-5 Miata.
2020 Toyota 86
The all-new 2020 Toyota Supra has garnered some great reviews from the automotive community. While the Supra is clearly faster than the BRZ, it is also roughly $20,000 more expensive. Furthermore, Supra owners will likely spend more money on vehicle maintenance. Drivers can save a lot of money by choosing the BRZ.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a bargain-friendly performance car, be sure to give the new 2020 Subaru BRZ a shot. While this coupe lacks the power to keep up with a Porsche, it’s just punchy enough for most people. Because of the BRZ’s affordability, amateur racers have made it a popular choice. If you do decide to buy a new BRZ, be aware of the potential shortcomings. This car’s main drawbacks are its tiny rear seat and lack of advanced safety tech.
