Overview
The Subaru BRZ’s mission is simple: provide all the necessary ingredients for pure and unadulterated driving fun and forget everything else. The light and limber chassis makes the 2.4-liter flat-four under its hood feel surprisingly strong considering its relatively paltry 228-hp output. Sure-footed handling and vivid steering feedback imbue the BRZ with potent aliveness in the corners. This little Subie is best experienced with a six-speed manual transmission, although an automatic is also available.
The BRZ’s rear seats aren’t there for carpooling but rather add additional cargo space; flip them down and you can even carry four tires to your track-day adventures. The BRZ and its Toyota GR86 mechanical twin are more practical than the Mazda Miata, which is the only other option in the rapidly disappearing affordable-sports-car segment. For doing its part to keep the barebones enthusiast car alive, the Subaru BRZ has earned a spot on our 2026 10Best list.
Expert Tip: There’s nothing wrong with a light and nimble coupe, but there’s something special about a sporty roadster. If you have an affinity for open-top motoring, the Mazda Miata comes as a convertible.

2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata
When the original MX-5 Miata burst onto the scene over 30 years ago, it redefined the affordable sports car. The 2026 model furthers Mazda’s original vision of a lightweight, open-top two-seater, and it still satisfies driving enthusiasts the way it always has: with an expertly tuned chassis, an eager four-cylinder engine, and a sublime manual transmission. All…
2026 Toyota GR86
Overview In an age where active aerodynamics and four-digit horsepower figures are blazing into the world of supercars, the Toyota GR86 strips the sports-car recipe down to its most essential ingredients. With a svelte, lightweight coupe body; a 228-hp flat-four engine, rear-wheel drive; and a manual transmission, the GR86 has everything it needs—and nothing it…




Leave a comment