2020 Subaru BRZ review
Subaru BRZ highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Agile handling
- Balanced performance for a sports car
- Spacious and comfortable front seats
Cons
- Virtually no standard driver-assistance features
- Slower acceleration than competitors
- Noisy engine at highway speeds
Mileage (EPA estimate)
20 city, 27 highway, 23 combined
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Fast, fun, and full of personality
The 2020 Subaru BRZ is a sports car through and through. The engaging driving dynamics, potent engine power, and dialed-in responsiveness mean you'll love every drive in a BRZ, whether you're commuting or off on a weekend adventure. The sleek lines, aggressive stance, and charming color choices mean this is a car you'll enjoy on your daily drive. This 2020 Subaru BRZ research will introduce you to the top reasons to buy, what you need to know about this sports car, and what you should look out for in a used BRZ.
All Subaru BRZ years
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Subaru BRZ generation from 2013 to 2025
What is new for the 2020 Subaru BRZ?
- The BRZ is available in a new trim called the TS.
- The Premium and Series.Gray trims have been discontinued for 2020.
- BRZ trims have been upgraded with Parking Sensors as standard equipment this year.
2020 Subaru BRZ trims
Curious how Subaru BRZ trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesLimited: Features proximity keyless entry, sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, seven-inch touch screen, track-mode, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, navigation system, Bluetooth® connectivity, eight-speaker audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, rearview camera, and more.
tS: Adds manual transmission, larger alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, SACHS performance dampers, and more.
Subaru BRZ photos
5 reasons to buy the 2020 Subaru BRZ
1. Performance package
The base Limited model has the option of a performance package. Look out for this if you'd like an even more performance-focused feel to your BRZ. You'll get 17-inch alloy wheels, Brembo® performance brakes, and SACHS® performance shock absorbers. This gives you a stiffer, more responsive ride, as well as a sportier look.
2. Track-ready features
The rear-wheel drive BRZ is ready to hit the track. Use the 4.2-inch multifunction display to keep an eye on G-force, lap times, engine torque, and more. There's also a dedicated track driving mode that lets you push the car even further. When turned on, the car will slide more easily, without completely disabling the traction control.
3. Back row
Despite its compact sports car looks, the 2020 Subaru BRZ does, in fact, have a back seat. It's not the most spacious but it's suitable for children. Where it does come in handy, though, is as interior storage, something two-seat sports cars are often lacking. If you are going to carry passengers, the legroom in the back row is 29.9 inches with 51.7 inches of shoulder room.
4. Trunk size
The 6.9 cu-ft of trunk gives you enough space to pack up for a weekend away. Or, if it's more your style, you could fit some extra tires and some tools in there for a trip to the track. Adding this practicality to a fun car makes every drive more enjoyable and enables you to use the BRZ as your daily driver.
5. Low center of gravity
Where this car shines is in its engaging driving dynamics. Part of this is down to its low center of gravity, which makes you feel more connected with the road. With the 205-horsepower engine and lightweight construction, the 2020 Subaru BRZ handles phenomenally. You'll also enjoy the small-diameter leather-wrapped steering wheel—it makes it easier to go lock-to-lock when pushing this car on the track.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2020 Subaru BRZ, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
The Chevrolet Camaro is a striking muscle car has been turning heads for decades. Modern versions such as 2017–2020 models are no less impressive. 2019 models boast a zero-to-60 time of 5.4 seconds with the 2.0L turbo engine (according to the manufacturer, when new). If that's not enough, look out for the 2019–2020 ZL1 model with its 650-horsepower engine, which turns out 650 lb-ft of torque.
Notable standard features for the 2017–2020 Camaro 1LS include:
Rearview camera
Leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel
Seven-inch color touchscreen
The Ford Mustang is a beautiful muscle car that doesn't mess around. The available V8 engine on 2017–2020 models gives you the thrill you're after but there's a lot to be said about the base engine too. 2018–2020 models feature a 2.3L Ecoboost® engine, which has 310 horsepower (compared to the V8's 460 horsepower) but can still return an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined.
The 2017–2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost trim has these standard features and more:
Keyless entry and ignition
Perimeter alarm
Six-speaker sound system
This two-door sports car has a 2.0L engine, rear-wheel drive, and manual transmission as standard (all models from 2017). Look out for 2019–2020 Toyota 86 GT models for functional aerodynamics, aggressive design features, and a performance-focused cockpit. If you'd like to head to the track, look out for the 2019 TRD version, which features upgraded Brembo brakes, SACHS suspension, and a performance exhaust.
Standard features for the 2017–2020 Toyota 86 base trim model include:
Automatic LED headlights
Bluetooth connectivity
Seven-inch infotainment touchscreen
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Ratings & reliability
RepairPal gave the Subaru BRZ an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Subaru BRZ 24th out of 27 among Subcompact Cars.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Subaru BRZSubaru BRZ features and specs
Curious how Subaru BRZ trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
Limited 2WD 2D Coupe
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- CD Audio
- Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Mirrors
- Leather & Suede Seats
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear Spoiler
- Rear View Camera
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- Kicker Speaker System
- Rear Spoiler
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
2.0L
Horsepower
200
Torque (ft-lbs)
151
Engine type
Gas
Fuel capacity
13.2
Wheelbase
101.2"
Overall length
166.7"
Width
69.9"
Height
52"
Leg room
F 41.9"/R 29.9"
Head room
F 37.1"/R 35"
Front tires
P215/45WR17
Rear tires
P215/45WR17
Seating capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic
2020 Subaru BRZ FAQ
Very much so. Take a 2020 BRZ to the track, and when new, it can reach a top speed of 143 mph and will go from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). The 2.0L engine offers up 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque.
It's actually a pretty cool answer. According to Subaru, BRZ stands for 'Boxer-Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive, Zenith'—neat, right? These are all elements that make up the charm of the 2020 Subaru BRZ.
Yes, it does. This two-door sports car has a second row of seats that can accommodate adults when required, usually just on short journeys, however. Where it comes into its own is when you want to take your niece or nephew for a spin or buckle your small dog into the rear seats while you drive over to the grooming parlor.
Yes, you can. The 2020 BRZ is equipped with two sets of LATCH fixtures that can accommodate a variety of child seats. Given its limited space back there, try out a variety of models in your BRZ before committing to the purchase of a seat—not all brands will fit as you'd like them to.
More about the 2020 Subaru BRZ
Color options
Exterior colors:
Ceramic White
Crystal Black Silica
Crystal White Pearl
Ice Silver Metallic
Magnetite Gray Metallic
WR Blue Pearl
Interior colors:
Black
Black/Red
Interior details
The two-door, four-seat BRZ has a slick cockpit interior with synthetic Alcantara® suede and real leather seat upholstery, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel—all standard for the 2020 models. Grippy seat bolsters ensure your twists and turns won't affect your seating position, while the BRZ's low-slung seats and center of gravity take you closer to the road action. Available in Black or Black and Red interior finishing, there's no doubt the 2020 BRZ has the looks and personality to charm drivers and passengers alike.
Child seat details
This nifty sports car has seating for four across two rows, and while the second row can accommodate adults at a pinch, it suits your smallest travel companions perfectly. The 2020 Subaru BRZ rear-row has two full sets of LATCH restraints (upper tether and lower anchors), that are easy to find and can accommodate front-facing seats. Not using the front passenger seat? Push it forward, and your BRZs rear row can also accommodate some rear-facing seat models too.
Performance
Driven by a 2.0L flat-four Subaru Boxer® engine with rear-wheel drive, the 2020 BRZ achieves 205 hp and 156 pound-feet of torque. Your driving style will dictate whether the six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission suits you best, with only a small reduction in horsepower (down to 200 hp) under the automatic transmission's power distribution.
Equipped with a sports-tuned suspension and track-ready data technology, the 2020 BRZ, when new, can reach a top track speed of 143 mph and a zero-to-60 time of 6.2 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). If fuel economy is your priority, the Limited trim with automatic transmission is the option to go for, achieving an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined.
Year comparisons
2013–2021 Subaru BRZ (first generation)
The first generation BRZ saw its biggest changes in 2017. A revised manual transmission and some engine upgrades bring more power to the fore. The interior cockpit gains some improved accent finishing along with a refreshed infotainment system and gauge cluster.
For the 2018 BRZ, the Limited trim gains some nice tech functionality, namely a 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone functionality. A short-run BRZ trim, the tS, is also available for this model year, offering a stiffer chassis and slick ride suspension. Another limited-run trim, the Series.Gray appeared in 2019.
For 2020, the tS trim is now a permanent offering, while the Premier trim is discontinued. With no yearly update in 2021, the BRZ awaits 2022, and its second-generation debut.
2022–2023 Subaru BRZ (second generation)
Kicking off the second generation with a ground-up redesign, the 2022 BRZ gets an updated interior with more technology and a new 228-hp 2.4L engine.
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