2022 Subaru BRZ Limited

Thanks to Subaru, the affordable sports car is alive and well, in the form of a second-generation BRZ, which was redesigned for 2022. In collaboration with Subaru, Toyota produces the nearly identical GR86 (see page 112). Noteworthy improvements include new sheet metal, a new engine, and tweaks to the chassis and suspension. The BRZ offers only 1 engine, a flat 4-cylinder that churns out 228 hp, up 23 hp from the previous model. Rear-wheel drive is standard, as is a 6-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed automatic is optional. A good argument for choosing the automatic, though, is that you also get adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and auto high beams—they’re not available with stick shift. LED headlights and dual-zone automatic climate control also are standard. The BRZ’s pros are pretty much de rigueur for a sports car: bold exterior styling, sharp handling, and a responsive drivetrain. And the cons? Also what you’d expect: a noisy cabin, limited storage and cargo space, and a rough, bouncy ride. Additionally, fuel economy is less than stellar (premium fuel is required). Nonetheless, if you’re looking to buy a sports car without breaking the bank, the BRZ is a solid choice.