2017 Subaru BRZ Pros vs Cons
What's New for 2017
Four years after making its debut, the Subaru BRZ has been considerably updated for the 2017 model year. The compact, two-door sports coupe has received updated styling as well as a standard hill-start assist system and auto LED headlights. The vehicle has also received an increase in power along with an updated manual transmission and the ability for suspension tuning. Additionally, there is now a Performance Package that includes an updated gauge cluster and larger Brembo brakes. These updates all enhance the best aspects of the Subaru BRZ, making it all the more enjoyable to drive.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2017 Subaru BRZ – The Pros
People who are looking for a nimble, fun-to-drive coupe are well-advised to take a closer look at the 2017 BRZ. Here are 10 reasons to buy it:
1. Newly Updated for 2017
As outlined above, the latest BRZ received minor but important updates for this year. They largely addressed minor complaints about previous models, including excessive cabin noise and bland styling. Unfortunately, however, acceleration continues to be a bit of an issue, but it's not enough to bother most drivers.
2. Fun to Drive
With its lightweight, well-balanced chassis, powerful engine and exceptional transmissions, the 2017 Subaru BRZ offers one of the most enjoyable driving experiences in its class. Steering is highly responsive, and handling is a breeze. Whether on city streets or the highway, the coupe flies along without a care.
3. Fairly Economical
For what it is, the 2017 BRZ is remarkably affordable. The base model has a suggested MSRP of $25,495, which is very competitive. That's even truer when one considers all of the features that come standard on the base model, including many advanced technological features.
4. Ample Standard Features
The base model of the latest Subaru BRZ is loaded with a great array of standard features. Many of them are typically upgrades on other cars in this class, so it's an excellent deal. This coupe comes in three trims: a Premium, a Limited, and a Series.Yellow. Standard features on the Premium base trim include: keyless entry, a rearview camera, fold-down rear seats, automatic LED headlights, a limited-slip rear differential, summer tires, a leather-trimmed tilt and telescoping steering wheel, the Star-Link infotainment system incl. Bluetooth, a 6.2" touchscreen and a nav system and an 8 speaker stereo with HD and satellite radio, a CD player, a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack.
5. Solid Safety Features
The 2017 BRZ also comes with many standard safety features. These include stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes and airbags at front and side curtain.
In crash tests, for front crash protection, the BRZ earned 4 out of 5 stars. In tests by the IIHS, the vehicle earned the best possible score of Good for side impact, front impact, head restraint and roof strength.
6. Decent Fuel Economy
Thanks to its lightweight and well-designed powertrain, the 2017 Subaru BRZ has remarkably good fuel economy. Only one engine, a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, is available. When paired with the six-speed manual transmission, it gets 205 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque as well as a combined fuel economy rating of 27 mpg. When paired with the six-speed automatic with shift paddles, it gets 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque and a combined fuel economy rating of 25 mpg.
7. Good Visibility
It's easy to keep a clear view of the road when driving this sporty coupe. This is largely thanks to its low profile hood. Blind spots aren't much of an issue.
8. Quiet Cabin
Thankfully, Subaru upgraded and improved cabin insulation with the latest BRZ. As a result, the coupe now offers a much quieter and more serene driving experience--even when flying down the freeway at full speed.
9. Comfortable Front Seats
Subaru has outdone itself with the front seats on this sports coupe. They are shaped in such a way that they offer exceptional support. They are also firm while still managing to be quite comfortable.
10. Respectable Cargo Space
No one is going to expect to get a ton of cargo space in a compact two-door sports coupe. However, the 2017 Subaru BRZ does well in this area. The trunk itself only offers 6.9 cubic feet of space, but that increases considerably when the rear seats are folded down.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2017 Subaru BRZ – The Cons
A few potential deal breakers regarding the 2017 BRZ include:
1. Cramped Backseat
There are no two ways around it: The backseat of this sports coupe is way too small. Just to get an adult to fit back there, the front seat must be pulled up a lot. Average-sized adults will feel too cramped.
2. No Available Engine Upgrade
While two transmissions are offered for this coupe, the manufacturer mysteriously only offers a single engine. Many drivers would happily upgrade to a more powerful one, so this is a bit of a head scratcher.
3. So-So Acceleration
Most aspects of driving the latest Subaru BRZ are phenomenal. The biggest caveat, by far, is that acceleration leaves much to be desired. In tests, coupes equipped with the manual transmission got from zero to 60 in 6.5 seconds. Those equipped with automatics take closer to eight seconds, which is very slow for a vehicle in this class.
Conclusion
Although it's not for everyone, the 2017 Subaru BRZ is a shining example of what a sports coupe is supposed to be. Now that it's received so many updates, this is the model year to buy.
