The Subaru BRZ comes standard with rear-wheel drive, not all-wheel drive

The Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports car. Every model year from 2012 to present uses a rear-engine layout that sends power to the rear wheels only. Subaru does not offer an all-wheel-drive version of the BRZ, and there is no option to add AWD to any trim level.

This is a deliberate design choice. Subaru built the BRZ as a lightweight, affordable sports car meant to handle like a traditional two-seater — predictable, responsive, and straightforward to control. Adding all-wheel drive would increase weight, cost, and mechanical complexity, which would work against those goals. The rear-wheel-drive layout is part of what makes the BRZ different from Subaru's other vehicles, most of which come standard with AWD.

Key Takeaways

  • The Subaru BRZ is rear-wheel drive only across all model years and trim levels.
  • Subaru does not manufacture an all-wheel-drive version of the BRZ and does not offer AWD as an option.
  • The rear-wheel-drive design keeps the BRZ lighter and cheaper than it would be with all-wheel drive.
  • If you need all-wheel drive, you will need to look at a different Subaru model or a different brand entirely.

Why Subaru chose rear-wheel drive for the BRZ

Subaru is known for all-wheel drive. The company uses it on the Outback, the Crosstrek, the Forester, the Impreza, and most other models in its lineup. The BRZ is the exception, and that exception is intentional.

The BRZ was developed as a joint project with Toyota, which also built a rear-wheel-drive version called the Toyota 86 (or GT86 in some markets). Both cars prioritize handling feel and driver control over traction in all conditions. Rear-wheel drive allows for a simpler suspension setup, lower curb weight, and a lower price point. It also gives the driver more direct feedback from the road and makes the car more engaging to drive on a track or a winding road.

Adding all-wheel drive would have added several hundred pounds, increased the cost by thousands of dollars, and required a more complex drivetrain. For a car designed to be affordable and fun rather than practical and capable in snow, that trade-off did not make sense.

How the BRZ handles without all-wheel drive

Rear-wheel drive in a lightweight sports car behaves differently than rear-wheel drive in a truck or sedan. The BRZ weighs around 2,700 pounds and has a low center of gravity. Power delivery is predictable and progressive, not sudden or aggressive.

On dry pavement, the BRZ grips well and corners flat. On wet pavement or light snow, the rear end can slide if you accelerate hard mid-corner or brake while turning, but the car is designed to be recoverable — the driver can feel what is happening and correct it. This is why the BRZ is popular with driving schools and track days. It teaches you how a car actually moves.

In heavy snow or on ice, rear-wheel drive is a disadvantage compared to all-wheel drive. The BRZ is not a winter car in climates where snow is frequent or deep. If you live in a place where winter driving is common, you will need winter tires and caution, or you will need a different vehicle.

What to do if you need all-wheel drive and want a Subaru

Subaru makes several all-wheel-drive models that are smaller or sportier than the average SUV. The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact crossover with standard all-wheel drive, a higher ride height than the BRZ, and more cargo space. It is heavier and less fun to drive on a track, but it handles snow and rough terrain much better.

The Subaru Impreza is a compact sedan or hatchback with standard all-wheel drive. It is not a sports car, but it is nimble, affordable, and capable in winter weather. The Subaru WRX and WRX STI are performance-focused sedans with all-wheel drive, turbocharged engines, and track-ready handling — they are more expensive than the BRZ but offer more power and winter capability.

If you want rear-wheel drive and do not require Subaru specifically, the Toyota 86 is mechanically identical to the BRZ and offers the same driving experience. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is another lightweight, affordable, rear-wheel-drive sports car with a loyal following.

BRZ performance in different weather and road conditions

On dry pavement, the BRZ is confident and predictable. The rear-wheel-drive layout does not limit performance — in fact, it contributes to the car's reputation for sharp handling and driver engagement. Track times are competitive with other cars in its class and price range.

On wet pavement, the BRZ requires more attention. Hydroplaning is possible at highway speeds, and the rear end will step out if you push hard in a corner. This is not a flaw — it is how rear-wheel-drive cars work. Drivers who understand this and adjust their speed and steering input accordingly find the BRZ rewarding to drive in the rain.

On snow and ice, the BRZ is at a real disadvantage compared to all-wheel-drive cars. The front wheels handle steering and braking, but the rear wheels have no power to help pull the car forward or grip the road. In heavy snow, the BRZ can get stuck where an all-wheel-drive car would keep moving. Winter tires help significantly, but they do not eliminate the limitation.

Comparing the BRZ to other rear-wheel-drive sports cars

The BRZ is not alone in the rear-wheel-drive sports car category. The Toyota 86, the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Chevrolet Camaro, the Dodge Challenger, and the Ford Mustang are all rear-wheel drive. None of them offer all-wheel drive as a factory option (though some aftermarket shops have added it to older models).

Among these, the BRZ and Toyota 86 are the lightest and least powerful. They are also the cheapest and the most focused on handling rather than raw speed. The Miata is lighter still and has a convertible top. The Camaro, Challenger, and Mustang are heavier, more powerful, and more expensive, but they offer more engine options and features.

If you are comparing the BRZ to all-wheel-drive sports cars like the Subaru WRX STI or the Audi S4, you are comparing different categories. Those cars prioritize traction and all-weather capability. The BRZ prioritizes simplicity, weight, and handling feel. The choice depends on what matters most to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add all-wheel drive to a BRZ after I buy it?

No. The BRZ is not designed to accept all-wheel drive, and the engineering required to retrofit it would be prohibitively expensive and complex. A few specialty shops have attempted it on older models, but it is not a practical or supported modification. If you need all-wheel drive, you should choose a different vehicle before you buy.

Does the BRZ have traction control to help in snow?

Yes. The BRZ comes with electronic traction control and stability control that can help prevent wheel spin and loss of grip. However, these systems work with the traction available — they cannot create traction that does not exist. In deep snow or on ice, traction control will limit your acceleration but will not make the car as capable as an all-wheel-drive car would be.

Is the BRZ safe to drive in winter?

The BRZ is safe to drive in winter if you use winter tires, drive at appropriate speeds, and understand the limits of rear-wheel drive. Many people drive rear-wheel-drive cars year-round in cold climates. The risk increases in heavy snow, on unplowed roads, or if you are inexperienced with how rear-wheel-drive cars behave when they lose grip.

Why did Subaru not make an all-wheel-drive BRZ?

All-wheel drive would have added weight, cost, and complexity to a car designed to be light, affordable, and fun to drive. Subaru already offers all-wheel-drive models in other categories. The BRZ was built to be different — a focused, rear-wheel-drive sports car that appeals to drivers who prioritize handling and engagement over all-weather capability.

Is the Toyota 86 all-wheel drive?

No. The Toyota 86 is rear-wheel drive, just like the BRZ. The two cars share the same platform and engine. Toyota does not offer an all-wheel-drive version of the 86 either.