Incidentally, the same author LOVES the twins (and loves their AT):
http://ericpetersautos.com/2012/12/1...obaru-brzfr-s/
Excerpt:
"The BRZ (and FR-S) are sports cars. 190 proof, no-nonsense, no BS, real-deal sports cars. Like Miata – only so much better. Low-mounted flat-four boxer engine and 200 hp. Driving dynamics you have to experience to appreciate – after which you will be sorely tempted to sell your oldest daughter to a Saudi sheik – if that’s what it takes to get the $25k or so it takes to acquire one of these things. The best automatic transmission on the market. Yes, a six-speed manual is standard – as it ought to be – but the automatic in this car – anticipatory (and rev-matched) double downshifts, spot-on upshifts – is just as good. Maybe better.
God, I could go on and on...
WHAT’S GOOD
What’s not?
If handling and fun to drive were translated into IQ, this car would rate genius.
No, super genius.
Superbly good six-speed automatic – if you swing that way.
More interior space than Miata.
34 MPG on the highway – with the optional automatic.
No “chick car” issues.
WHAT’S NOT SO GOOD
No convertible – yet.
30 MPG on the highway with the standard manual.
A bit beefy (2,762 lbs. vs. 2,480 for the convertible Miata).
Probable dealer mark-up.