All good things come to an end, right? Unfortunately, that seems to be the case for the 2026 Subaru BRZ. The beloved budget-friendly sports car is losing one of its biggest selling points: affordability. When the updated model hits showrooms early next year, it’ll come with a much steeper price tag — about $5,000 more than the current 2025 version.
For years, the BRZ and its twin, the Toyota GR86, have been go-to choices for driving enthusiasts looking for an affordable entry into the sports car world. They’ve never been about massive horsepower, but their lightweight, rear-wheel-drive chassis, low center of gravity, and sharp handling deliver a driving experience you’d usually only find in pricier models. Add in the standard 6-speed manual transmission, and you’ve got a pure, analog driving feel that’s becoming increasingly rare.
But that accessible pricing is no longer part of the equation. For 2026, the BRZ now starts at $35,860. Ouch.
New Pricing Reflects Streamlined Lineup
Subaru revealed 2026 BRZ pricing this week — and let’s just say, the jump was bigger than anyone expected. Once you add the mandatory $1,195 destination fee, the starting price climbs to $37,055. That’s edging dangerously close to entry-level luxury territory. For comparison, the 2026 Toyota GR86 starts at just $30,800 before destination fees, and even with them included, you can still get one for under $32,000.
It’s a big change from just a few years ago. When the second-generation BRZ debuted for the 2022 model year, it started at $28,955 for the base Premium trim. Subaru has since eliminated that entry-level version for 2026, which helps explain part of the price hike. The company says only about 10% of buyers opted for the Premium model, so the higher starting price shouldn’t impact most customers too much.
Still, it’s worth noting that every trim level in the 2026 lineup has seen a price bump — even if those increases are smaller by comparison.
The 2026 BRZ lineup is made up of three trims: the Limited, the tS, and a brand-new Series.Yellow special edition — which is also being offered on the WRX. Subaru plans to build just 350 units of the Series.Yellow, each finished in a striking Sunrise Yellow paint color and offered exclusively with a manual transmission.
This limited-run model also gets a handful of unique design touches, including exterior and interior accents borrowed from the tS, giving it a sportier, more distinctive look inside and out.
Pricing for the full range is as follows:
| 2026 Subaru BRZ Pricing Comparison | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Model | 2026 Pricing* | 2025 Pricing | Difference |
| BRZ Premium | – | $31,095 | Discontinued |
| BRZ Limited | $35,860 | $33,745 | +$2,115 |
| BRZ tS | $38,360 | $36,245 | |
| BRZ Series.Yellow | $39,360 | – | New for 2026 |
| *All prices exclude a $1,195 destination charge. | |||
Every 2026 BRZ comes with the same powertrain under the hood: a 2.4-liter flat-four engine that produces 228 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 184 lb-ft of torque at 3,700 rpm. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard across the lineup, while the Limited trim offers an optional 6-speed paddle-shifted automatic for an additional $850.
Weighing in at just 2,837 pounds, the BRZ keeps things light and agile. Performance-wise, you can expect a 0–60 mph time of about six seconds with the manual and roughly seven seconds with the automatic — not blistering, but plenty quick for a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe.
A High Level Of Standard Equipment
Subaru is packing in a healthy list of standard features to help soften the blow of the BRZ’s higher price tag. Every model now comes equipped with a Torsen limited-slip differential, LED headlights, and 18-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. Inside, you’ll find a seven-inch digital gauge cluster, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a stability control system with a dedicated Track mode.
That gauge cluster isn’t just for show — it can display amps, coolant temperature, or lateral G-forces, and in Track mode, the tachometer swaps its traditional circular layout for a linear graph. For infotainment, every BRZ includes an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Subaru also bundles in its suite of driver-assist tech, such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning.
Stepping up to the tS trim — first introduced in 2024 — brings subtle but meaningful performance upgrades from Subaru’s STI division (the name stands for tuned by STI). The suspension is sharpened with STI-tuned struts and Hitachi dampers, while Brembo brakes with larger rotors and calipers boost stopping power. Inside, the tS gets Ultrasuede trim, blue accent stitching, and STI badging throughout the cabin. Like the base model, it rides on 18-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, ensuring confident grip and precise handling.
FAQ’s
Is a Subaru BRZ classified as a sports car?
Yes, the Subaru BRZ is considered a sports car. It’s lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and built for precise handling, offering a more engaging driving experience than most regular coupes.
Will there be a 2025 BRZ?
Yes, Subaru is continuing the BRZ for 2025. The new model keeps its signature lightweight design and sharp handling while adding updated features and small performance tweaks.
Is a Subaru BRZ expensive?
Not really — the BRZ is one of the most affordable sports cars you can buy. It usually starts around $30,000, offering great handling and performance without a luxury-level price tag.
Why are Subaru BRZ so popular?
The BRZ is popular because it’s fun, affordable, and focused on driving feel. Its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and manual gearbox option make it a favorite among car enthusiasts and beginners alike.
Is the BRZ a real Subaru?
Yes, the BRZ is a genuine Subaru. It’s built by Subaru and powered by a Subaru-developed engine, though it was co-engineered with Toyota to share costs and expertise.
What Toyota car is like the BRZ?
The Toyota GR86 is essentially the BRZ’s twin. Both cars share the same platform, engine, and many components, with only slight differences in suspension tuning and styling.
How long do BRZ engines last?
With proper maintenance, BRZ engines can easily last over 200,000 miles. Regular oil changes, careful driving, and timely servicing are key to keeping the flat-four engine reliable.
Who makes Subaru engines?
Subaru designs and builds its own engines, including the flat-four “Boxer” engine found in the BRZ. This unique design helps keep the car’s center of gravity low for better handling.
Is Toyota making a 2025 GR86?
Yes, Toyota will continue producing the GR86 for 2025. Like the BRZ, it’s expected to receive small updates while keeping its lightweight, driver-focused design.
Does a BRZ have a Toyota engine?
No, the BRZ uses a Subaru-built engine. The 2.4-liter flat-four Boxer engine is designed by Subaru, even though the car is a joint project with Toyota.
What are the common problems with Toyota BRZs?
Some owners report issues like oil leaks, engine idle problems, or premature clutch wear, especially on early models. Most of these are minor and easily preventable with proper maintenance.
Does Toyota own Subaru?
Toyota doesn’t fully own Subaru, but it does hold a significant stake — about 20%. The partnership allows both brands to collaborate on models like the BRZ and GR86.
Which is better, Toyota GR 86 or Subaru BRZ?
They’re nearly identical, so the “better” choice depends on personal preference. The GR86 is slightly more playful in handling, while the BRZ feels a bit more balanced and composed.
Which Subaru has a Toyota engine?
Currently, no Subaru models use a Toyota engine. Even the BRZ uses Subaru’s own Boxer engine, though it was co-developed with Toyota.
Who owns Subaru?
Subaru is owned by Subaru Corporation, a Japanese company formerly known as Fuji Heavy Industries. Toyota owns a minority share but doesn’t control the brand.
Why isn’t the BRZ turbocharged?
Subaru chose not to turbocharge the BRZ to keep it lightweight, affordable, and focused on handling. A turbo would add cost and weight, changing the car’s balanced driving dynamics.
What is faster, BRZ or 86?
They’re nearly identical in performance. Any speed difference between the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 is minimal — usually less than a tenth of a second in 0–60 times.
What is the rarest Subaru BRZ?
Special editions like the BRZ tS or the Hyper Blue edition are among the rarest. These limited-run models often feature unique styling, upgraded suspension, and exclusive badging.
Which BRZ to avoid?
Early first-generation models (2013–2014) had a few engine and build-quality issues, so it’s best to look for a well-maintained 2015+ version or the newer second generation.
Why do Subaru engines last so long?
Subaru engines are known for their durable Boxer design, which reduces stress on components. With regular maintenance, they run smoothly and reliably for hundreds of thousands of miles.
How fast does a Subaru BRZ go 0-60?
The current Subaru BRZ goes from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.4 to 5.8 seconds. While not supercar fast, it’s quick enough to make the lightweight sports coupe feel exciting on the road.