The 2015 Subaru BRZ Premium represents the pinnacle of the first-generation model, combining the core driving dynamics that made the BRZ famous with a suite of thoughtful upgrades. This trim level was designed for the driver who values both performance and comfort, offering features that transformed the engaging coupe into a more refined daily driver without sacrificing the visceral connection to the road. From the moment you step inside, the Premium trim signals its elevated status compared to the base model, setting a new standard for the experience.
The Premium Difference: Comfort and Convenience Features
Moving beyond the standard BRZ, the Premium package introduced key enhancements that significantly improved long-drive comfort. The most notable addition was the inclusion of heated front seats, a feature that transformed chilly morning commutes and extended evening drives into more enjoyable experiences. This focus on climate comfort was matched by upgraded audio systems, which provided a richer, more immersive soundscape for music enthusiasts, turning the cabin into a personal entertainment space on the go.
Design and Aesthetic Appeal
Visually, the 2015 BRZ Premium distinguished itself with unique styling cues that signaled its higher position in the lineup. The premium trim often featured exclusive color options and special badging that set it apart from the base model. The addition of a rear spoiler was not merely for aesthetics; it contributed to the vehicle's aerodynamic stability at higher speeds, a subtle detail that complemented its already engaging handling characteristics. These design elements worked in concert to create a more sophisticated and commanding road presence.
Interior Craftsmanship and Technology
Inside, the Premium trim justified its name through upgraded materials and a more polished finish. While the BRZ has always prioritized driver focus, the Premium version achieved a better balance between sport functionality and everyday usability. The steering wheel often featured integrated audio controls, allowing for seamless music management without taking hands off the wheel. This blend of tactile feedback and modern convenience technology ensured that the cabin remained both driver-centric and remarkably user-friendly for daily use.
Performance Under the Hood
Mechanically, the 2015 BRZ Premium retained the heart of the model: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter boxer engine producing 200 horsepower. This powertrain configuration was celebrated for its lightweight design and balanced weight distribution, which were fundamental to the car's agile handling and predictable cornering dynamics. The Premium trim enhanced this mechanical purity not with more power, but with improved traction and stability control systems, making the performance accessible and confidence-inspiring in a wider range of driving conditions.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety was a critical component of the Premium experience, with Subaru's renowned EyeSight driver assistance technology becoming a standard feature. This suite included adaptive cruise control, which eased highway driving fatigue, and lane departure warning, which helped keep the car centered in its lane. When combined with the standard suite of airbags and robust chassis construction, these systems provided a comprehensive safety net that allowed drivers to fully exploit the car's dynamic capabilities with greater peace of mind.
Value and Market Position
In the competitive sports coupe segment, the 2015 BRZ Premium held a unique position by offering an engaging driving experience rarely found in mainstream vehicles. Its value proposition was strengthened by the durability and low cost of ownership associated with the Subaru boxer engine and standard all-wheel drive. For buyers seeking a car that was both thrilling to drive and practical for daily use, the Premium trim represented a smart investment that balanced performance, comfort, and long-term reliability better than many of its rivals.
