2013 Subaru BRZ - First Drive + More Rides
#1
12-13-2011, 05:14 AM
2013 Subaru BRZ - First Drive + More Rides
2013 Subaru BRZ - First Drive
We drive Subaru's new $25,000 baby.
By John Lamm / Photos by the Author
December, 2011
<!--/photos-video-wrapper-->
Slideshow >>
Subaru BRZ in Tokyo >>
<!--/photos-video-wrapper-->
<!-- /Main photo wrapper --><!-- test output end: --><!-- the article, at a glance, downloads, top competitors, from buying guide --><!-- left column -->Specs >>
Kuzu City, Tochigi, Japan—It’s rare we get to test a new sports car aimed directly at those who want a sports car but don’t have Porsche money in the bank.
This one is, of course, the long-anticipated Subaru BRZ, as in Boxer, Rear-wheel drive Zenith (as in peak, not the television set). Jointly developed with Toyota (and to also be sold as the Scion FR-S in the U.S.), the BRZ was mostly engineered by Subaru and mostly styled by Toyota, with companies tweaking the other’s efforts to personalize the machine somewhat.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Getting right to the driving—look out, Miata. With the exception of the brief, unfulfilled “Solstice interlude,” Mazda has owned the small sports car market and with good reason. Great car, the Miata, and Mazda has never taken its eye off the ball when it comes to keeping it pure and honest.
Strong Off the Line
Mazda finally has real competition. From the start, the 2.0-liter flat-4 pulls smoothly, and is flexible enough to drive off at 1500 rpm in 6th gear. It’s more fun, of course, to be down a few notches in the smooth, lightweight 6-speed manual transmission. The engine pulls strongly from 3000 rpm to the 150 lb.-ft. peak at 6600 rpm. Redline is 7400. Subaru says the BRZ hits 60 mph in less than 7 seconds with the manual gearbox. Along the way, you’ll find the exhaust to be as exuberant as the engine.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Considering cars of this ilk, I think of a road that connects Highway 1 with 101 in Northern California, a twisting, climbing-then-falling two-laner among the redwoods. What you want there is a machine that not only handles with ease, but also has the sort of torque character that means you aren’t shifting every other corner. In 2nd gear? No problem, stick with it. In 3rd? That’s okay too. Instead, enjoy the drive, the even turn-in—there’s just a bit of confidence-inspiring understeer—and the good balance even when the road might dip into a rut in the apex.
The ride is a proper match to the handling, isolated for both quality and sound, and yet not separating you from the driving experience. On a straight highway where exhaust sound and handling aren’t important, shift up to 6th and the exhaust falls away for a reasonably calm highway ride. Keep going and we’re told you could top out at more than 135 mph. Overall, it’s a good dual-character machine that’s fun on the weekends but won’t beat you up during the week. Early mileage estimates peg the BRZ at 30 mpg on the highway.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Do It Automatically
At risk of sounding heretical here, you can have just as much fun with the automatic. Paddle shifters are standard, and when you shift the mode from D to M for manual, the mapping tightens up. Nice rev-popping to match downshifts and, again, the torque minimizes the amount of shifting you’ll be doing.
The Miata does get points for being a roadster, where the BRZ is only a coupe. We’d put money down that at some point there will be a soft top BRZ, but don’t hold your breath.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Besides, it’s a very handsome coupe. The Subaru and Scion are basically the same design, and hint at a sort of 7/8th-scale modern rendition of the original Datsun 240Z...and we mean that as a compliment. The Subaru and Scion share the same taillights, but the Subie gets HID headlamps. Unfortunately, both designs have the non-functional grille at the tops of the front fenders. The roof is a “double bubble,” not in the classic Zagato sense, but “flat bubbles,” taller on the sides for added headroom and stiffness.
The roofline’s side curve peaks right about where the driver gets in, so entry and exit for anyone around six feet is easy. You’ll snuggle right into the well-bolstered seats, which should be as comfortable for long runs as for tight corners. Outward visibility—with a minor exception in rear view—is quite good for a car of this size.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Inside Line
In this day of hard interior plastic/low-cost interiors, Subaru has done a reasonable job of making certain everything you touch has a comfortable feel to it. There’s leather on the shift ****, emergency brake handle and steering wheel, the last adjustable for rake and reach.
Three gauges are straight ahead, the center a tach with a digital speedo, the analog speedometer to the left, fuel and temp on the right. HVAC controls are in the center stack, configured with ***** and levers that are large enough that you can easily operate them, even with gloves. No mysteries, no fiddling around.
2013 Subaru BRZ
There are two possible negatives inside. Subaru may call this a 2+2, but that’s being optimistic. It’s more like a 2+ kids. Subaru points out, howevever, that with the folding rear seatback you can fit a pair of golf bags or four racing tires, helmet and tools in back.
The other area of concern is the radio/navigational system. Kudos to Subaru for making navi standard at this price, but the system is clumsy and requires a lot of time with eyes off the road.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Tech Basics
We’ve already written about the technical basics of the BRZ. The 200-bhp, 2.0-liter, fuel-injected flat-4 that sits well back and low in the chassis, all the better to lower the center of gravity and reduce the polar moment of inertia. You can have either a 6-speed manual or the aforementioned 6-speed automatic gearbox, and a Torsen limited-slip differential is standard as are 17-in. wheels and tires. Front suspension is MacPherson struts; the rear is a double-wishbone layout with Impreza roots. Steering has electric assist with a ratio of 13.1:1 through a 14.4-in. steering wheel.
Price? Nothing final, but we believe the $25,000 sports car ball has just been lobbed into the Miata’s court.
<STYLE type=text/css>table.list td{padding:5px;}</STYLE><CENTER><TABLE style="BORDER-BOTTOM: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid; BORDER-LEFT: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid; BORDER-TOP: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid; BORDER-RIGHT: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid" class=list border=0 width=350><TBODY><TR><TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid" colSpan=2 align=center>Specifications</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>ENGINE</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Engine type</TD><TD vAlign=top>flat-4</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Displacement</TD><TD vAlign=top>2.0 liters</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Fuel system</TD><TD vAlign=top>direct injection</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Horsepower (SAE) rpm</TD><TD vAlign=top>est 200 bhp @ 7000</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Torque</TD><TD vAlign=top>est 170 lb-ft @ 6400-6600 rpm</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Transmission</TD><TD vAlign=top>6-spd manual, 6-spd auto</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Wheelbase</TD><TD vAlign=top>101.2 in.</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Length</TD><TD vAlign=top>166.7 in.</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Width</TD><TD vAlign=top>70.9 in.</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Height</TD><TD vAlign=top>50.4 in.</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Curb weight</TD><TD vAlign=top>2770 lb</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>STEERING</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Steering type </TD><TD vAlign=top>power rack & pinion</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Steering ratio</TD><TD vAlign=top>13.0:1 </TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>SUSPENSION</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Suspension, f/r</TD><TD vAlign=top>MacPherson strut/double wishbone</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top></TD><TD vAlign=top></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>TIRES</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Tire size</TD><TD vAlign=top>P215/45R-18 f, P225/45R-18 r</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></CENTER>
We drive Subaru's new $25,000 baby.
By John Lamm / Photos by the Author
December, 2011
<!--/photos-video-wrapper-->
Slideshow >>Subaru BRZ in Tokyo >><!--/photos-video-wrapper-->
<!-- /Main photo wrapper --><!-- test output end: --><!-- the article, at a glance, downloads, top competitors, from buying guide --><!-- left column -->Specs >>
Kuzu City, Tochigi, Japan—It’s rare we get to test a new sports car aimed directly at those who want a sports car but don’t have Porsche money in the bank.
This one is, of course, the long-anticipated Subaru BRZ, as in Boxer, Rear-wheel drive Zenith (as in peak, not the television set). Jointly developed with Toyota (and to also be sold as the Scion FR-S in the U.S.), the BRZ was mostly engineered by Subaru and mostly styled by Toyota, with companies tweaking the other’s efforts to personalize the machine somewhat.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Getting right to the driving—look out, Miata. With the exception of the brief, unfulfilled “Solstice interlude,” Mazda has owned the small sports car market and with good reason. Great car, the Miata, and Mazda has never taken its eye off the ball when it comes to keeping it pure and honest.
Strong Off the Line
Mazda finally has real competition. From the start, the 2.0-liter flat-4 pulls smoothly, and is flexible enough to drive off at 1500 rpm in 6th gear. It’s more fun, of course, to be down a few notches in the smooth, lightweight 6-speed manual transmission. The engine pulls strongly from 3000 rpm to the 150 lb.-ft. peak at 6600 rpm. Redline is 7400. Subaru says the BRZ hits 60 mph in less than 7 seconds with the manual gearbox. Along the way, you’ll find the exhaust to be as exuberant as the engine.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Considering cars of this ilk, I think of a road that connects Highway 1 with 101 in Northern California, a twisting, climbing-then-falling two-laner among the redwoods. What you want there is a machine that not only handles with ease, but also has the sort of torque character that means you aren’t shifting every other corner. In 2nd gear? No problem, stick with it. In 3rd? That’s okay too. Instead, enjoy the drive, the even turn-in—there’s just a bit of confidence-inspiring understeer—and the good balance even when the road might dip into a rut in the apex.
The ride is a proper match to the handling, isolated for both quality and sound, and yet not separating you from the driving experience. On a straight highway where exhaust sound and handling aren’t important, shift up to 6th and the exhaust falls away for a reasonably calm highway ride. Keep going and we’re told you could top out at more than 135 mph. Overall, it’s a good dual-character machine that’s fun on the weekends but won’t beat you up during the week. Early mileage estimates peg the BRZ at 30 mpg on the highway.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Do It Automatically
At risk of sounding heretical here, you can have just as much fun with the automatic. Paddle shifters are standard, and when you shift the mode from D to M for manual, the mapping tightens up. Nice rev-popping to match downshifts and, again, the torque minimizes the amount of shifting you’ll be doing.
The Miata does get points for being a roadster, where the BRZ is only a coupe. We’d put money down that at some point there will be a soft top BRZ, but don’t hold your breath.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Besides, it’s a very handsome coupe. The Subaru and Scion are basically the same design, and hint at a sort of 7/8th-scale modern rendition of the original Datsun 240Z...and we mean that as a compliment. The Subaru and Scion share the same taillights, but the Subie gets HID headlamps. Unfortunately, both designs have the non-functional grille at the tops of the front fenders. The roof is a “double bubble,” not in the classic Zagato sense, but “flat bubbles,” taller on the sides for added headroom and stiffness.
The roofline’s side curve peaks right about where the driver gets in, so entry and exit for anyone around six feet is easy. You’ll snuggle right into the well-bolstered seats, which should be as comfortable for long runs as for tight corners. Outward visibility—with a minor exception in rear view—is quite good for a car of this size.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Inside Line
In this day of hard interior plastic/low-cost interiors, Subaru has done a reasonable job of making certain everything you touch has a comfortable feel to it. There’s leather on the shift ****, emergency brake handle and steering wheel, the last adjustable for rake and reach.
<IFRAME height=350 border=0 src="http://blog.roadandtrack.com/wp-content/uploads/panorama/2011-tokyo-auto-show/subaru-brz-interior/subaru-brz1sm_ezp.html" width=450></IFRAME>360-Degree Panorama of BRZ Interior
Three gauges are straight ahead, the center a tach with a digital speedo, the analog speedometer to the left, fuel and temp on the right. HVAC controls are in the center stack, configured with ***** and levers that are large enough that you can easily operate them, even with gloves. No mysteries, no fiddling around.
2013 Subaru BRZ
There are two possible negatives inside. Subaru may call this a 2+2, but that’s being optimistic. It’s more like a 2+ kids. Subaru points out, howevever, that with the folding rear seatback you can fit a pair of golf bags or four racing tires, helmet and tools in back.
The other area of concern is the radio/navigational system. Kudos to Subaru for making navi standard at this price, but the system is clumsy and requires a lot of time with eyes off the road.
2013 Subaru BRZ
Tech Basics
We’ve already written about the technical basics of the BRZ. The 200-bhp, 2.0-liter, fuel-injected flat-4 that sits well back and low in the chassis, all the better to lower the center of gravity and reduce the polar moment of inertia. You can have either a 6-speed manual or the aforementioned 6-speed automatic gearbox, and a Torsen limited-slip differential is standard as are 17-in. wheels and tires. Front suspension is MacPherson struts; the rear is a double-wishbone layout with Impreza roots. Steering has electric assist with a ratio of 13.1:1 through a 14.4-in. steering wheel.
Price? Nothing final, but we believe the $25,000 sports car ball has just been lobbed into the Miata’s court.
<STYLE type=text/css>table.list td{padding:5px;}</STYLE><CENTER><TABLE style="BORDER-BOTTOM: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid; BORDER-LEFT: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid; BORDER-TOP: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid; BORDER-RIGHT: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid" class=list border=0 width=350><TBODY><TR><TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: rgb(0,0,0) 1px solid" colSpan=2 align=center>Specifications</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>ENGINE</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Engine type</TD><TD vAlign=top>flat-4</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Displacement</TD><TD vAlign=top>2.0 liters</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Fuel system</TD><TD vAlign=top>direct injection</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Horsepower (SAE) rpm</TD><TD vAlign=top>est 200 bhp @ 7000</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Torque</TD><TD vAlign=top>est 170 lb-ft @ 6400-6600 rpm</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Transmission</TD><TD vAlign=top>6-spd manual, 6-spd auto</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Wheelbase</TD><TD vAlign=top>101.2 in.</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Length</TD><TD vAlign=top>166.7 in.</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Width</TD><TD vAlign=top>70.9 in.</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Height</TD><TD vAlign=top>50.4 in.</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Curb weight</TD><TD vAlign=top>2770 lb</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>STEERING</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Steering type </TD><TD vAlign=top>power rack & pinion</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Steering ratio</TD><TD vAlign=top>13.0:1 </TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>SUSPENSION</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Suspension, f/r</TD><TD vAlign=top>MacPherson strut/double wishbone</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top></TD><TD vAlign=top></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>TIRES</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>Tire size</TD><TD vAlign=top>P215/45R-18 f, P225/45R-18 r</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></CENTER>
Last edited by Space; 12-13-2011 at 06:46 AM.
#2
12-13-2011, 05:18 AM
2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe - 2012 Detroit Auto Show Preview
The Genesis gets a new look for its 2012 Detroit Auto Show debut.
By Calvin Kim
December 8, 2011
<!-- auto show is false why is this showing --><!-- use auto show template in this case -->Photos » Videos »
<!-- test output end: --><!-- the article, at a glance, downloads, top competitors, from buying guide --><!-- left column -->Photos: 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe >>
A revised Genesis Coupe was bound to happen, and Hyundai revealed exactly that at a 5000-strong enthusiast gathering at Korea’s Yeongam F1 circuit. Immediately evident is a completely revised front fascia that falls in line with the rest of Hyundai’s lineup. The design change reveals a more aggressive and bolder aesthetic. The car is expected to make its U.S. debut at the North American International Auto Show.
2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Bigger news still comes from two revised, more powerful engines: a 3.8-liter direct-injected V-6 and a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4. The V-6 now outputs 345 bhp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, while the turbo-4 will generate 271 bhp and 275 lb.-ft. of torque. From the early Korean-spec numbers, this puts the Genesis Coupe in contention with other sporty imports such as Nissan’s 370Z.
2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
=====================
BEST OF THE 2012 Detroit Auto Show Preview2012 Detroit Show
<TABLE class=default border=0 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width=186><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top>
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>LIVE Blogging the Detroit Show! >></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>2012 Detroit Auto Show >></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
<!-- /rt-col --><!-- tags, pager -->Pages: 1 Photos
The Genesis gets a new look for its 2012 Detroit Auto Show debut.
By Calvin Kim
December 8, 2011
<!-- auto show is false why is this showing --><!-- use auto show template in this case -->Photos » Videos »
<!-- test output end: --><!-- the article, at a glance, downloads, top competitors, from buying guide --><!-- left column -->Photos: 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe >>
A revised Genesis Coupe was bound to happen, and Hyundai revealed exactly that at a 5000-strong enthusiast gathering at Korea’s Yeongam F1 circuit. Immediately evident is a completely revised front fascia that falls in line with the rest of Hyundai’s lineup. The design change reveals a more aggressive and bolder aesthetic. The car is expected to make its U.S. debut at the North American International Auto Show.
2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Bigger news still comes from two revised, more powerful engines: a 3.8-liter direct-injected V-6 and a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4. The V-6 now outputs 345 bhp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, while the turbo-4 will generate 271 bhp and 275 lb.-ft. of torque. From the early Korean-spec numbers, this puts the Genesis Coupe in contention with other sporty imports such as Nissan’s 370Z.
2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
=====================
BEST OF THE 2012 Detroit Auto Show Preview2012 Detroit Show
<TABLE class=default border=0 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width=186><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top>
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>LIVE Blogging the Detroit Show! >></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top>2012 Detroit Auto Show >></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
<!-- /rt-col --><!-- tags, pager -->Pages: 1 Photos
Last edited by Space; 12-13-2011 at 06:52 AM.
#3
12-13-2011, 08:04 AM
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Southeast PA
Posts: 25,136
PSH, get that Genesis out of this thread :p
I'm loving this BRZ/FRS more and more. Seriously going to test drive one if I can find it next year.
I'm loving this BRZ/FRS more and more. Seriously going to test drive one if I can find it next year.
#4
12-13-2011, 08:35 AM
No `Way Mod `Mike, I want everyone to know everything they can about it
Knowledge is Power 
Why don't you like them ? I've never driven one or seen that many on the roads (but, I don't get out much : ) 
================================================== =======
I also can't wait to test drive the BRZ/FRS...I really like everything I've read about them & looking 4ward to seeing them & drivin one
I think it's going to be a super package `if they don't end `up being 2 expensive....I also hope the insurance rating isn't 2 high & not classified as a performance vehicle (?) I love go`kart type of rides 
Last edited by Space; 12-13-2011 at 08:38 AM.
#5
12-13-2011, 08:39 AM
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Southeast PA
Posts: 25,136
I think the Scion is going to be more of a barebones car, should be around 21/22k
The Genesis just is in the wrong class. For its weight and drivetrain we start to look at Mustangs and Camaros instead
The Genesis just is in the wrong class. For its weight and drivetrain we start to look at Mustangs and Camaros instead
#6
12-13-2011, 08:51 AM
I agree Mod `Mike, it's not in the same class, but that's not why I contained the additional links in this thread...
I posted it for other member's that clicked & found that they did not care for the Scion's or Subie's & had other vehicles & shows to check out...during their visit.
"Variety is the Spice of Life"
I posted it for other member's that clicked & found that they did not care for the Scion's or Subie's & had other vehicles & shows to check out...during their visit.
"Variety is the Spice of Life"
#7
12-13-2011, 10:42 AM
I'm diggin' the BRZ/FRS idea. I really like the idea of a simple (i.e. not tricked out with electronic controls / gadgets), sporty, fun-to-drive, economical car. Kind of afraid to test drive one for fear that I might like it too much. Based on what I've read, I think it would be a blast to drive. Even the automatic trans w/manual mode & paddle shifter sounds cool. I'd prefer a manual trans, but even the auto trans as described has something for both the wife (auto) and me (quasi-manual).
If any new car makes it's way into our garage in the near future, it will be for my wife, not me. She's let me have fun with my old Jaguar after retiring from the Army. So she has dibs on the next vehicle for us. And I'm thinking the BRZ/FRS is not what she has in mind. We'll see...
If any new car makes it's way into our garage in the near future, it will be for my wife, not me. She's let me have fun with my old Jaguar after retiring from the Army. So she has dibs on the next vehicle for us. And I'm thinking the BRZ/FRS is not what she has in mind. We'll see...
#8
12-13-2011, 11:25 AM
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Southeast PA
Posts: 25,136
I am going to be swapping my 2nd car a lot. All while keeping the Monte, and I was dead set on a used 5th Gen Camaro. But I just might test drive these JUST to see
#10
12-14-2011, 12:03 PM
i like the subie. sounds like it would be fun to drive. i wish they wouldve kept the taillights from the concept, i think they were alil sharper but nice overall. not feeling the front end of the genesisi actually like the old front end better.