2013 Subaru BRZ
The 2013 Subaru BRZ marked the debut of Subaru's venture into the affordable rear-wheel-drive sports coupe segment, a joint development with Toyota. Designed from the ground up for driving enthusiasts, the BRZ promised an engaging and pure driving experience, prioritizing agility and driver connection over outright power.
Highlights
- Engine: At its heart, the BRZ is powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-four boxer engine (FA20). This unique "boxer" configuration, with its horizontally opposed cylinders, contributes to a lower center of gravity, a key element in the BRZ's exceptional handling. It delivers 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful engine in its class, it's known for its rev-happy nature and provides a satisfying auditory experience.
- Safety Features: The 2013 BRZ came equipped with a suite of standard safety features designed to protect occupants:
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): This system monitors steering input and vehicle yaw rate, automatically applying individual brakes and reducing engine power to help drivers regain control in slippery conditions or during sudden maneuvers.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Works to prevent wheelspin during acceleration, ensuring optimal grip, especially when launching from a standstill or accelerating out of corners.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD): Optimizes the braking force between the front and rear wheels based on vehicle load and braking conditions, enhancing braking performance.
- Brake Assist (BA): Detects a panic stop and applies maximum braking force, even if the driver doesn't press the pedal hard enough.
- Seven Airbags: Including front, front-side, side-curtain, and a driver's knee airbag, providing comprehensive occupant protection.
- Trim Summary: The 2013 BRZ was offered in two primary trims, each catering to slightly different preferences:
- Premium: The entry-level trim offered a compelling package for its price, featuring essential comfort and convenience features. It typically included keyless entry, power windows and locks, a limited-slip differential, and an infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity.
- Limited: Stepping up to the Limited trim added a host of desirable enhancements. These usually included premium features like heated front seats, a leather-trimmed interior, fog lights, and an upgraded infotainment system often with a larger touchscreen and navigation. Some Limited models also featured 17-inch alloy wheels with a unique design.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Low Center of Gravity: As mentioned, the boxer engine's design contributes to an incredibly low center of gravity, a critical factor in the BRZ's nimble and precise handling.
- Rear-Wheel Drive: This is the BRZ's defining characteristic. Unlike most other Subaru models, it sends power to the rear wheels, enabling a more traditional sports car driving dynamic and allowing for playful oversteer when desired.
- Driver-Focused Interior: The cabin is designed with the driver in mind, featuring supportive seats, intuitive controls, and a clear view of the road. The steering wheel is praised for its feel and responsiveness.
- Excellent Balance: The BRZ boasts near-perfect weight distribution, further enhancing its agility and predictability through corners.
What to Expect
Owning a 2013 Subaru BRZ is generally a rewarding experience for those who appreciate a connected and engaging drive.
- Ownership Experience: Owners can expect a car that is fun to drive on twisty roads and feels precise and responsive in everyday driving. The compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The rear-wheel-drive nature means that in adverse weather conditions (rain, snow), careful throttle control and potentially winter tires will be necessary to maintain traction. The interior is functional and driver-oriented, though some may find it a bit spartan compared to more mainstream coupes.
- Maintenance: Like most performance-oriented vehicles, the BRZ benefits from regular and timely maintenance. This includes routine oil changes (using the recommended synthetic oil), checking fluid levels, and inspecting brakes and tires. Due to the boxer engine, accessing certain components might be slightly different than a typical inline-four, but Subaru's reputation for reliability generally holds true. Parts are generally readily available, and many independent mechanics are familiar with the platform.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for a sports coupe like the BRZ can vary significantly based on location, driving record, age, and the specific insurance provider. It's advisable to get quotes before purchasing, as premiums may be higher than for a more conventional sedan or hatchback due to its performance-oriented nature and potential for spirited driving.
Potential Considerations
While the BRZ is a fantastic driver's car, potential buyers should be aware of a few points:
- Torque Dip: The FA20 engine, particularly in its early iterations like the 2013 model, is known for a noticeable "torque dip" in the mid-range RPMs. This means there's a slight lull in acceleration between approximately 3,000 and 4,500 RPM before the power band kicks in more strongly. While many owners adapt to this by keeping the engine in its power band, it can be a point of contention for those accustomed to more linear torque delivery.
- Practicality: The BRZ is a 2+2 coupe, meaning it has rear seats, but they are very small and best suited for children or short-distance travel for adults. The trunk space is also modest, suitable for weekend getaways or groceries but not for large cargo.
- Road Noise: Due to its focus on lightweight construction and a direct connection to the road, the BRZ can be noisier than many other vehicles, with more road and wind noise entering the cabin, especially at highway speeds.
- Naturally Aspirated Power: While the naturally aspirated engine provides a pure driving feel, its horsepower and torque figures are lower than many turbocharged competitors in a similar price bracket. This means that for those prioritizing raw acceleration, the BRZ might feel a bit underpowered.
Overall Summary
The 2013 Subaru BRZ is a pure, unadulterated sports coupe that prioritizes driver engagement and agile handling above all else. It's a car designed for those who love the art of driving, offering an accessible entry into rear-wheel-drive performance with its engaging chassis, responsive steering, and a low center of gravity. While it has a few quirks like the torque dip and limited practicality, for the right driver, the BRZ delivers an incredibly rewarding and connected driving experience that is hard to find elsewhere. It stands as a testament to the joy of a well-balanced, lightweight, and fun-to-drive automobile.
