When it comes to sporty coupes with powerful engines, good fuel efficiency is often hard to come by. However, the all-new 2013 Subaru BRZ proves that zippy performance and excellent handling don't always have to be compromised in favor of gas mileage. Keep reading to take an early look at the 2013 Subaru BRZ to determine if it's a car worth waiting for.
Styling: 2013 Subaru BRZWith a development phase of approximately four years, the auto world has some pretty high expectations pinned on the new BRZ. According to most early reviews, the vehicle delivers on all the hype.
One look at the new sport coupe, and it's easy to see that Subaru threw its standard vehicle design out the window. A low center of gravity, aggressively flared wheel wells and a slicked-back body style all combine to give the BRZ an uber sporty appearance. Inside, the vehicle takes a less-is-more approach. This means the vehicle boasts a simple, streamlined interior that focuses on front passenger comfort (however, rear seat passenger seating is about as cramped as it can get). Plenty of high-tech features are available. Rear trunk space is listed at 6.9 cubic feet.
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Performance: 2013 Subaru BRZSubaru traditionalists may be appalled to learn that the BRZ doesn't come with all-wheel drive. However, Subaru opted to leave out this previously default feature in favor of better engine positioning and all-around enhanced performance. The sport coupe's sole engine comes in the form of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is good for 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque. A low vehicle weight and well-balanced design result in a zero-to-60 mph time of about 7.3 seconds. While some competitors beat this time, Subaru is betting you'll find it more than acceptable when taking fuel efficiency into consideration.
A Subaru BRZ outfitted with manual transmission delivers an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway (25 mpg combined). Even better, automatic transmission models zip along with an impressive 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway (28 mpg combined).
Review full 2013 Subaru BRZ specifications
Safety: 2013 Subaru BRZThe Subaru BRZ comes standard with antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. The vehicle has yet to be crash tested by either the National Highway Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Pricing and Features: 2013 Subaru BRZBase MSRP for the 2013 BRZ is listed at $25,495. For this price, you'll get a long standard features list that includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, keyless entry, full power accessories, air-conditioning, cruise control, fold-down rear seat, touchscreen interface, navigation system, voice controls, Bluetooth, hands-free text messaging, eight-speaker stereo and more. Performance features such as limited-slip rear differential and summer tires also come standard.
Step up to the BRZ Limited trim, and you'll also get a rear spoiler, foglamps, keyless ignition, faux-suede/leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control and heated front seats. Limited models start at $27,495.
The release date for the 2013 Subaru BRZ is set for Spring 2012. Subaru is recommending that interested shoppers contact their local dealers to discuss pre-ordering the vehicle.
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