Performance-oriented rear-wheel-drive coupe, targeting driving enthusiasts. Competes with vehicles like Mazda MX-5 Miata, Toyota 86 (same platform), Nissan 370Z.
Competitive Analysis
Key Selling Points:
Lightweight chassis, balanced handling, boxer engine, engaging driving dynamics, affordable entry into RWD sports car segment.
Key Features
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides DIY mechanics and owners with dealership-level repair information, enabling significant cost savings on maintenance and repairs. Enhances vehicle longevity and performance through proper servicing.
Content Quality:
Vehicle-specific, not generic. Features step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics for accurate and safe repairs.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Full Service, Repair, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Maintenance
High (typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals)
Manual Type
Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Digital Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for disassembly, inspection, assembly, and troubleshooting of the engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, etc.
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including component location and wire color codes.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Professional-level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex component overhaul and electronic diagnostics, equivalent to dealer technician resources.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows and macOS
Reader Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Print Quality
Printability:
Yes, all pages are printable for convenient use in a workshop environment.
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual
Optional
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Automatic with Paddle Shifters (optional)
Features
Manual Transmission Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.649, 2nd: 2.188, 3rd: 1.513, 4th: 1.175, 5th: 1.000, 6th: 0.791, Reverse: 3.400, Final Drive: 4.100 - typical values, confirm in manual)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Sport mode, paddle shifters for manual control, adaptive shift logic.
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific Subaru-approved gear oil (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5 specification, specific viscosity like 75W-90 or 70W-80).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific Subaru-approved ATF (e.g., Subaru ATF HP).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
169.1 inches (4,295 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1,755 mm)
Height:
50.6 inches (1,285 mm)
Wheelbase:
101.2 inches (2,570 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.9 inches (125 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,758 lbs (1,251 kg) for manual transmission
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 6.9 cu ft (0.195 m³)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (refer to specific year's ratings)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star Overall (refer to specific year's ratings)
Active Features
ABS:
Yes, Anti-lock Braking System
Vsc:
Yes, Vehicle Stability Control
Trac:
Yes, Traction Control System
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point rear seat belts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Base models typically featured a 6.1-inch touchscreen with AM/FM/CD, USB, auxiliary input, Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims may have enhanced audio or navigation options.
Driver Assistance
Advanced Driver Assistance:
Limited for 2012 model year; primarily ABS, VSC, and TRAC. Features like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were not available.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB and auxiliary audio inputs.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6 months or 7,500 miles (12,000 km), whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific conditions and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed, typically every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs. Consult manual for exact interval.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual: Likely SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil, meeting Subaru specifications.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters) with filter change (confirm in manual).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent. Check manual for specific type and mixture.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification).
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Valve spring issues (in some early models, check for recalls/TSBs), potential oil consumption, clutch wear (especially with aggressive driving), exhaust manifold cracks (less common, but possible).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru is renowned for its all-wheel-drive systems and boxer engines, with a history of rally racing and practical, durable vehicles. The BRZ marks a departure with its RWD layout, focusing on pure driving engagement.
Model Evolution
Brz Development:
Developed in collaboration with Toyota (as the Toyota 86/Scion FR-S), the BRZ was Subaru's first rear-wheel-drive sports car in decades. Designed to be lightweight, affordable, and fun to drive.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car Of The Year Nominations:
Often recognized for its driving dynamics and affordability, garnering positive reviews from automotive journalists.
Performance Awards:
Frequently cited in 'best driver's car' lists and praised for its handling characteristics and driver engagement.