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NYC area driving? AWD.
If you can have two cars, then a BRZ could be your fair weather car.
NYC parking? WRX - its a little taller and if parallel parking is involved, it might get hit slightly less than the invisible front end of the BRZ. (so low that people in SUVs dont see it when backing up).
NYC traffic? WRX. RAV4 might be bigger than ideal.
NYC pothole roads? WRX or RAV4.
There's not much case for buying the BRZ. And with an auto, its geared higher for better fuel economy with a penalty of an extra 1 second to get to 60mph. In a car that's already not very fast, that's a deal breaker.
The WRX with a CVT - in theory the trans could keep the engine in boost and could be very enjoyable. I have an older WRX with a 4 speed auto and it sucks the fun out of it from a dig - but also makes the car much more relaxing to just get in and drive. At speed, dropping the go-pedal gives me an instant 2 gear drop and I just take off.
Btw - the prices you mentioned SUCK! A new 2014?? That car is nearly 2 years old and never sold?? And a 1 year old WRX with 12k miles for $29k?? That's more than they go for new, depending on options. If you find the model you want, I suggest find a dealer online who moves volume and will give you a good price, even after the $6-900 transport fee. A new WRX auto starts around $27k.
Btw - you'll get people saying they drive a manual Miata year round in Alaska and its fine. Just bc it can be done doesn't mean its should be done. If an auto and awd is a better choice FOR YOU then don't worry about what others say.
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