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.
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