2026 Subaru BRZ Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
Born from the same Subaru-Toyota collaboration that also produced what would become the GR86, the 2026 Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports car designed for driving enthusiasts who value balance, precision, and pure fun behind the wheel. In a segment where excitement often comes at a high price, the BRZ stands out as a spirited choice that’s accessible without compromise.
Performance coupe rivals include the Ford Mustang and Mazda Miata.
What’s New
Following last year’s Series. Purple special, the BRZ lineup gains a limited-run Series.Yellow edition for 2026, distinguished by its Sunrise Yellow paint, matte black wheels, and black interior with yellow contrast stitching. Only 350 units will be built, each paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. At the same time, Subaru has discontinued the BRZ’s Premium trim level.
What We Think
The Subaru BRZ delivers what enthusiasts want most: a fun, engaging sports car that remains surprisingly affordable.
Its naturally aspirated boxer engine provides just enough punch to keep you smiling, and sharp steering, responsive pedals, and a satisfying manual shifter make every drive feel special. The enhanced BRZ tS sharpens things further with well-judged upgrades, making it the smart choice for those eyeing suspension or wheel changes.
But not everything is perfect. Engine and tire noise make the cabin loud, which adds to the car’s raw character but can wear thin in daily driving. The tiny rear seat isn’t much use for passengers, though the fold-down feature makes it handy for extra cargo.
Still, the BRZ’s flaws quickly fade once you find a winding road. Its immediacy and precision behind the wheel are rare, even compared to pricier sports cars. In a market with so few affordable performance options, the BRZ’s very existence is something to celebrate.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
MotorTrend Tested
The 2026 BRZ comes with a single powertrain: a 2.4-liter flat-four producing 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. In MotorTrend testing, the automatic version hit 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, and the manual cut that to 5.8 seconds.
By contrast, the Miata’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes 181 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque, paired with a standard six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic. In testing, MotorTrend clocked a Miata Club at 5.6 seconds to 60 mph, edging out the BRZ by a hair.
MPGs and Range
With its manual transmission, the BRZ is rated at 20/27 mpg city/highway for a range of up to 290 miles. Opting for the automatic improves efficiency to 21/30 mpg and extends range to about 330 miles.
The Miata does better thanks to its lighter weight and smaller engine. Manual versions return 26/34 mpg, and the automatic matches the 26-mpg city figure and improves to 35 mpg on the highway. Both models claim a 345-mile range.
Safety Ratings and Features
For 2025, the BRZ earned strong crash test results. The IIHS gave it the top Good rating across most categories, along with high marks for its crash avoidance and mitigation systems. The only shortfall was in LATCH child seat securing system usability, which received the second-tier Acceptable rating.
Standard active safety features are bundled in Subaru’s EyeSight suite. All BRZs receive:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Driver fatigue warning
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Trunk space surpasses the Miata’s but trails the larger Ford Mustang. As a 2+2 coupe, the BRZ offers comfortable seating for two adults up front, with small rear seats better for children or extra storage.
Technology
Infotainment
Every 2026 BRZ comes equipped with a 7.0-inch driver display and 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two USB ports in the center console are also standard.
Sound System
The base setup features six speakers, and the upgrade comes with eight speakers.
Available Upgrades
The BRZ tS unlocks an STI-tuned suspension, Brembo braking system, 18-inch dark gray alloy wheels, and distinctive interior touches like Ultrasuede and leather with blue stitching, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and red-accented gauges. Exterior upgrades include Crystal Black Silica trim, red BRZ logos on the headlights, and “BRZ tS” badging.
Value
Standard Features
This one is for the enthusiasts—every BRZ comes with decent power, a low center of gravity, transmissions with manual control, limited-slip differential, summer tires, and disc brakes at each corner.
Recommended Trim
For the budget-conscious enthusiast, the entry-level BRZ Limited is a solid choice. Its standard performance features—a flat-four engine, limited-slip differential, and six-speed manual—deliver plenty of driving enjoyment.
