2020 Subaru BRZ: A Driver-Focused Compact Sports Coupe
The 2020 Subaru BRZ is a niche offering in the automotive landscape, focusing on pure driving engagement and a traditional rear-wheel-drive sports coupe experience. It's a car designed for those who prioritize feel and handling over brute force or everyday practicality. For 2020, the BRZ remained largely unchanged from its second-generation debut, continuing to offer a purist's approach to affordable performance.
Highlights
- Engine: At the heart of the BRZ lies a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter Subaru Boxer engine. This horizontally opposed four-cylinder powerplant produces 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful engine in its class, its low center of gravity contributes significantly to the car's balanced handling. Buyers can choose between a standard 6-speed manual transmission for maximum driver involvement or an optional 6-speed automatic transmission. The manual gearbox is particularly praised for its precise feel and short throws.
- Safety Features: The 2020 BRZ comes equipped with a respectable suite of standard safety features, including:
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): This system helps prevent loss of traction by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power when it detects a loss of steering control.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Works in conjunction with VSC to prevent wheel spin during acceleration, especially on slippery surfaces.
- 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 distribution of braking force between the front and rear wheels based on load and braking conditions.
- Brake Assist: Automatically applies maximum braking force when it detects a panic braking situation.
- Seven Airbags: Including front, side, curtain, and a driver's knee airbag for comprehensive occupant protection.
- Note: Subaru's advanced EyeSight driver-assist technologies are not available on the BRZ, reinforcing its driver-centric nature.
- Trims: The 2020 BRZ was offered in two primary trims, each catering to slightly different priorities:
- BRZ Premium: This is the entry-level trim, offering the core BRZ driving experience. It comes with desirable features like LED headlights and taillights, keyless entry and push-button start, a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a limited-slip differential.
- BRZ Limited: Stepping up, the Limited trim adds a layer of refinement and performance enhancements. It includes the Premium's features plus 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, keyless entry and ignition, automatic climate control, a rear spoiler, and premium interior accents.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): This is a defining characteristic, providing a more engaging and dynamic driving experience compared to front-wheel-drive competitors.
- Lightweight Construction: The BRZ is designed to be exceptionally light, which is crucial for its agile handling and responsive feel.
- Low Center of Gravity: Thanks to the Boxer engine's design, the BRZ boasts a remarkably low center of gravity, contributing to its exceptional cornering ability and stability.
- Driver-Focused Cockpit: The interior is minimalist and driver-centric, with clear instrumentation and easily accessible controls.
- Tuning Potential: The BRZ platform is popular within the automotive enthusiast community for its tuning potential, with many owners modifying their cars for increased performance.
What to Expect
Owning a 2020 Subaru BRZ is generally a straightforward and enjoyable experience for its target audience.
- Ownership Experience: Expect a car that rewards attentive driving. The ride can be firm, which is a trade-off for its sporty handling. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver and park in urban environments. The rear seats are best described as token, suitable for very small children or brief journeys for adults. The trunk space is also limited, making it less ideal for extensive road trips or hauling large items. However, for spirited drives and weekend excursions, the BRZ excels.
- Maintenance: As a Subaru, the BRZ generally benefits from a reliable reputation. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and checking fluids, will be crucial. The Boxer engine's unique layout might require specific servicing knowledge, so finding a Subaru-certified mechanic or one familiar with the platform is advisable. Parts are generally readily available.
- Insurance: Insurance costs can vary significantly based on your location, driving record, and age. Sports cars, in general, tend to have higher insurance premiums due to their performance capabilities and the higher likelihood of being driven enthusiastically. It's always recommended to get quotes from multiple insurance providers.
Potential Considerations
While the BRZ offers a compelling driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of a few drawbacks:
- Limited Power: The 2.0-liter engine, while well-balanced, is often criticized for its lack of outright power, especially in comparison to turbocharged competitors. Acceleration is adequate but not breathtaking.
- Firm Ride: The suspension is tuned for sporty handling, which translates to a firm ride that can be noticeable over rougher road surfaces. This may be uncomfortable for some drivers on a daily basis.
- Lack of All-Wheel Drive: Unlike most other Subaru models, the BRZ is exclusively rear-wheel drive. This means it's not as adept in slippery conditions like snow or heavy rain as its AWD siblings, and winter tires are highly recommended if you live in such climates.
- Minimalist Interior and Practicality: The interior, while driver-focused, is also quite basic. The rear seats are virtually unusable for adults, and cargo space is very limited. This makes the BRZ a less practical choice for families or those who regularly need to carry passengers or significant amounts of gear.
- Road Noise: The lightweight nature and focus on performance can sometimes lead to increased road and wind noise within the cabin, especially at highway speeds.
Overall Summary
The 2020 Subaru BRZ is a beautifully balanced and engaging compact sports coupe that prioritizes the joy of driving. It offers sharp handling, responsive steering, and the pure connection to the road that enthusiasts crave, all powered by a characterful Boxer engine and a satisfying manual transmission. While it lacks the brute force and everyday practicality of some rivals, the BRZ carves out its own identity as a pure driver's car. It's a fantastic choice for those who value the journey as much as the destination and are willing to embrace its focused, albeit sometimes compromised, nature.
