Over the past five years, the BRZ has been through several iterations, a range of aftermarket modifications, and even a movie cameo or two. Now, the 2018 Subaru BRZ near Mobile, AL is being reinvented once more. The BRZ is a performance-oriented sports coupe that still offers the safety and reliability for which the automaker is known. Continue reading to learn more about the 2018 BRZ.
Its Origins
As Subaru’s only two-wheel drive vehicle, the 2018 BRZ is an oddity. It’s the result of a partnership with Toyota, and as such, its underpinnings are shared with the Toyota 86. Though it doesn’t have the power of the WRX, the BRZ has a following all its own. With its zippy 2.0L engine and great road manners, the BRZ appeals to a skilled, nuanced driver.
New Additions
For the 2018 model year, the BRZ is available in a tS trim with a stiffer chassis, sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, 18” wheels, black Alcantara upholstery, and a carbon fiber spoiler. The tS and the Limited now come with a seven-inch StarLink audio system with navigation and smartphone integration; the Premium gets heated mirrors. To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Subaru offers a limited-edition model with a special paint color, wheels, and interior trim.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2018 BRZ gets its power from a 2.0L boxer engine. This normally aspirated four-cylinder offers 200hp and 151 lb. ft. of torque when mated to the six-speed automatic transmission, and slightly more with a manual gearbox. Manual-equipped models are EPA rated at 21mpg in the city and 19mpg on the highway; automatic BRZs get 24/33, and tS models get 20/27.
Available and Standard Features
The 2018 BRZ comes in three trims: the tS, Limited, and Premium, as well as the Limited-based 50th anniversary model. All BRZs come with a six-speed manual transmission as standard equipment, and there’s an available six-speed automatic.
· The Premium has AC, heated mirrors, cruise control, power windows and locks, 65/35 folding rear seats, wheel-mounted Bluetooth and audio controls, 17” alloys, a touchscreen audio system, USB and iPod input, and phone connectivity.
· The Limited gets Alcantara seats, LED fog lights, illuminated vanity mirrors, push button start, smartphone integration, StarLink audio and navigation, dual climate controls, and more. The available cold weather option package adds heated mirrors and front seats. A six-speed auto transmission and paddle shifters are optional, while cars with manual transmissions have a performance package that comes with SACHS performance dampers, Brembo brakes, and 17” wheels.
· The tS gets STI rear and front coil springs and dampers, as well as a bolstered engine compartment. Other standard touches include lightweight 18” wheels, exclusive exterior and interior trim, and Brembo brakes.
· The 50th Anniversary edition has everything found in the Limited, along with a unique paint scheme, contrast stitching on the upholstery, and silver safety belts.
Safety Features
Every 2018 Subaru BRZ near Mobile, AL has standard antilock brakes, electronic stability and traction control, and a full range of driver and passenger airbags. In government-sponsored crash tests, the 2018 BRZ got a 4.5-star rating. The IIHS gave it a top rating in almost every test.
Taking the Wheel
With its 156 lb. ft. of torque, the BRZ doesn’t quite deliver the same snappy acceleration as the WRX or the WRX STI, it’s still peppy enough for most enthusiasts. Thanks to the lightweight chassis, if a driver is willing to rev it high and work the gearbox, the vehicle will make them smile every time they drive. It’s nimble in the curves, with great brakes, tremendous traction, and precise steering. With these road manners, the BRZ is a fun car to take down a winding road.
The Perfect Sports Coupe Layout
Due to its low rearward engine position, the BRZ is an almost perfectly balanced sports coupe. With its quick reflexes and low center of gravity, as well as its RWD-based handling dynamics and its Track Mode, the BRZ is a surprisingly nimble sports coupe. For the everyday driver, though, it’s easy to handle. The ride isn’t overly harsh, it gets relatively good fuel economy, and its maintenance requirements are on par with its rivals.
Multifunction Display
The 2018 BRZ’s performance just got smarter. With a 4.2” screen that displays driver info such as lap times and a G-force meter, the BRZ can easily go from street to track and back again.
The new 2018 Subaru BRZ near Mobile, AL is truly a driver’s car, and we invite our local customers to see its performance in person. Come by the dealership to take a test drive or call us at (888) 486-3576 for more information.
