CR Says Subaru BRZ Hangs With BMW M3 As Most Fun-To-Drive New Models This Year

What are the most fun-to-drive new cars you can buy this year? Consumer Reports says the affordable 2023 Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 sports coupes now rank alongside the more expensive BMW M3 and Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing. The BRZ Consumer Reports tested was priced at $30,495 compared with the pricey BMW M3 at $94,445 and Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing ($76,340).

CR's five most fun-to-drive models this year

Consumer Reports picked the 2023 Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86, Honda Civic Hatchback, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing, and BMW M3.

photo credit: Competition Subaru

What does CR say about the Subaru BRZ?

"The redesigned Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 capture the best traits of a great driver's car at an achievable price, with capabilities that make them approachable for many."

What is the price of the 2023 Subaru BRZ?

The 2023 Subaru BRZ comes in two trim levels with two transmission options. The BRZ Premium with a 6-speed manual gearbox has a starting price of $29,615. BRZ Premium with an automatic transmission starts at $33,115.

The Limited (6-speed manual) has a starting MSRP of $32,115. The Limited with an automatic transmission starts at $33,255. Pricing includes destination and delivery fees.

photo credit: John Powers/Consumer Reports

Is the 2023 BRZ a good value for sports car shoppers? The 2023 Subaru BRZ is still one of America's most affordable sports cars.

What sets the BRZ apart from other sports cars?

The BRZ has superior driving dynamics because the sports coupe has a lower center of gravity with the flat-four Boxer engine. It sits lower in the chassis offering better balance and stability in the corners.

The 2023 BRZ is powered by a non-turbocharged FA24 2.4-liter Boxer engine with 228 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. It comes mated with a six-speed close-ratio manual gearbox or a six-speed electronic direct-control automatic transmission.

The BRZ remains one of the best sports cars offering value and driving dynamics for driving enthusiasts. CR says, "The small RWD coupe formula of the original cars remains unchanged, and their value is unparalleled from a driving enthusiast's perspective. Regardless of transmission choice, these cars offer nimble, sharp, and well-balanced handling dynamics that anyone can enjoy."

Which is the better model, the Subaru BRZ or Toyota GR86?

CR says, "the BRZ being a bit tamer and easier to live with every day, and the GR86 being the choice for the more hardcore thrill-seeker." In the story link below, see why Consumer reports says you should date the Toyota GR86 and marry the Subaru BRZ.

Overall, CR says the Subaru BRZ is one of the five most fun-to-drive models they tested this year and ranks alongside the pricey BMW M3 and Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing.

You Might Also Like: Toyota Vs. Subaru - Consumer Reports Says Date The GR86, Marry The BRZ

Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: Subaru, Consumer Reports