What are the best SUVs/wagons and the most affordable sports car in 2023? Car and Driver editors say the two Subaru models are the best in their category. See why they are the top picks for new car shoppers.
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Car and Driver announced that two Subaru models won best in their segment in the new Car and Driver Editors' Choice awards for 2023. The recently-remodeled 2023 Subaru BRZ sports coupe and the top-selling newly-upgraded 2023 Subaru Outback wagon/midsize SUV are the best in their respective segments.
The 2023 Subaru Outback wins the best Station Wagon award, and the 2023 Subaru BRZ is the most affordable sports car pick, along with its twin, the Toyota GR86.
Car and Driver says the newly-upgraded Outback wins the Best Wagon award because it has "more ground clearance than a regular wagon, (8.7 inches) plenty of space for cargo, and nicely equipped with standard tech features."
The low points
C&D says, "It's poky with the base four-cylinder engine, boring to drive, and the engine drones during acceleration thanks to CVT."
Car and Driver needs to mention the Outback comes with a 260 horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in many trim levels. They also do not say the Outback Wilderness is a rugged new model for outdoor enthusiasts.
The verdict
C&D says, "Its rugged looks make it attractive to those with outdoorsy lifestyles, but the Outback's practicality and ride comfort make it a good choice for families too."
What is the price of the 2023 Outback?
The 2023 Outback now comes in nine trim levels for U.S. customers; the base trim is priced from $29,620, Premium ($31,920), new Onyx Edition with a 2.5-liter engine ($34,720), Limited ($36,520), Touring ($41,070), Outback Wilderness ($39,670), Onyx Edition XT ($39,820), Limited XT ($40,920), and Touring XT ($43,520). Pricing includes $1,225 destination and delivery fees.
The remodeled Subaru Outback is Subaru of America's second best-selling model in the all-wheel-drive lineup. In addition, the all-new 2023 Outback Wilderness is the newest trim level and more rugged than standard models. You can read the complete Wilderness trim level report here.
Why does the 2023 BRZ win the most affordable sports car award?
Car and Driver says the BRZ is "Small and light, peppy, and the responsive flat-four engine is an absolute hoot to drive."
The low points
C&D says, "The interior needs a designer's touch, there is significant road noise and faux rear legroom."
The verdict
The BRZ is "Built by enthusiasts for enthusiasts at a budget price point, a tempting combo for folks who appreciate a fun drive but don't have Corvette money."
What is the price of the 2023 BRZ?
The 2023 Subaru BRZ comes in two trim levels with two transmission options. The BRZ Premium with a 6-speed manual gearbox has a starting price of $29,615. BRZ Premium with an automatic transmission starts at $33,115. The Limited (6-speed manual) has a starting MSRP of $32,115. The Limited with an automatic transmission starts at $33,255. Pricing includes destination and delivery fees.
The BRZ remains one of the best sports cars offering value and driving dynamics for driving enthusiasts. An updated iSeeCars study says the 2023 Subaru BRZ is a top sports car pick that holds its value along with the top ten vehicles you can buy today.
Car and Driver says the newly-upgraded 2023 Subaru Outback and the newly-remodeled all-new 2022 Subaru BRZ are the best new models for 2023 in their category for new car shoppers in 2023.
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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report, where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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