2019 Subaru BRZ Raiu Edition
Tech specs
Price range: $33,795.
Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder.
Transmission/drive: Six-speed manual/rear wheel.
Why it matters: As the sole vehicle in Subaru’s range not equipped with all-wheel drive, you’d expect the BRZ to be hampered by a lack of traction. On the contrary: This lightweight little two-plus-two coupe makes the most of its 205-hp naturally aspirated flat-four, harkening back to the days when sports cars were about nimble handling rather than outright speed.
Now in its seventh model year, the BRZ has benefitted from a host of minor engineering tweaks that have refined its driving characteristics. The special Raiu edition is a Canada-only special, limited to 100 units, and while there's no additional power, Subaru has sharpened up the BRZ's performance a little. SACHs dampers help keep Subaru's coupe planted, while upgraded Brembo brakes haul things down after the straightaway.
With a unique blue-grey paint and a host of special cosmetic add-ons from the STI catalogue, the BRZ Raiu is a limited edition track-special for around the same price as a mid-grade WRX. Outright power isn’t everything.
Subaru Ascent
The return of a three-row crossover is, quite literally, a huge addition to Subaru’s lineup. Previously, families who outgrew their Forester outgrew Subaru as a brand, perhaps returning as empty-nesters to buy an Outback.
Stay on top of all our Drive stories. We have a Drive newsletter covering car reviews, innovative new cars and the ups and downs of everyday driving. Sign up for the weekly Drive newsletter, delivered to your inbox for free. Follow us on Instagram, @globedrive.