The Subaru BRZ keeps its lineup elegantly simple: two trims, Premium and Limited, with one shared 228-hp flat-four engine and one shared rear-wheel-drive chassis. The decision comes down to whether Brembo brakes and a Harman Kardon stereo are worth $2,700 to you — and whether you plan to drive a manual or automatic.
Bottom Line: Both BRZ trims deliver the same exceptional driving experience; the Limited adds Brembo brakes, navigation, and Harman Kardon audio that benefit daily commuters and audio enthusiasts alike.
- Both trims share the identical 228-hp 2.4L naturally aspirated flat-four engine
- Limited adds Brembo 4-piston front brake calipers, 18-inch wheels, and performance exhaust
- EyeSight driver-assist is only available on the automatic Limited — manual buyers skip it entirely
What the BRZ Premium Includes
The BRZ Premium is everything a driving enthusiast needs at the most accessible price point. Starting at $30,395, it delivers the FA24F 2.4L flat-four, a 6-speed manual or available 6-speed automatic, and a sport-tuned chassis that makes Nassau County’s backroads genuinely fun.
Standard features on the Premium are comprehensive: 17-inch gloss-black aluminum wheels, full LED lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch STARLINK multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Heated front seats come standard — a practical touch for Long Island winters in Hicksville, Bethpage, or Plainview.
For everything you need to know about the full BRZ ownership experience in Nassau County, see our complete Subaru BRZ guide. The key takeaway: the Premium does not compromise the driving character in any meaningful way.
What the BRZ Limited Adds
The Limited starts at $33,095 with the manual or $34,395 with the automatic — a $2,700 premium over the base Premium. The headline upgrade is Brembo 4-piston front brake calipers with their distinctive red finish visible through the 18-inch wheels. Drivers who run autocross events or enjoy canyon-carving will notice the improved pedal feel and fade resistance.
Additional Limited features include a performance exhaust with a more distinctive engine note, built-in navigation on the 8-inch display, and a Harman Kardon 8-speaker audio system that’s legitimately impressive for a $33,000 car. Auto-dimming rearview mirror and reverse auto-tilt side mirrors round out the convenience package.
Critically, the Limited with automatic transmission adds Subaru EyeSight driver-assist — adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. This makes the automatic Limited the practical choice for Nassau County commuters who want safety tech alongside sports car dynamics.
"Most of our BRZ buyers go Premium with the manual -- they know the chassis is identical and would rather put that $2,700 toward performance tires or track day fees. The Limited sells well to buyers who want EyeSight for their commute."
General Manager, Grand Prix Subaru
Premium vs. Limited: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Premium | Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP (manual) | ✓ $30,395 | $33,095 |
| Wheel Size | 17-inch | ✓ 18-inch |
| Front Brakes | Single-piston | ✓ Brembo 4-piston |
| Audio System | Standard stereo | ✓ Harman Kardon 8-speaker |
| Navigation | No | ✓ Yes (built-in) |
| EyeSight (auto only) | Not available | ✓ Standard with auto |
| Performance Exhaust | No | ✓ Yes |
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Manual vs. Automatic: The Transmission Decision
Your transmission choice is more consequential than your trim selection. The 6-speed manual is the choice of virtually every driving enthusiast who buys a BRZ — the short throws, precise gating, and direct connection to the 228-hp flat-four make it the car’s natural state.
The 6-speed automatic uses a proper torque-converter unit, not a CVT. Paddle shifters allow manual control, and it responds quickly. For Nassau County commuters who face Northern State Parkway traffic or regular trips to Midtown, the automatic is a reasonable choice that doesn’t fundamentally compromise the BRZ experience.
EyeSight safety tech requires the automatic Limited configuration specifically. If you want adaptive cruise for your Hicksville-to-Manhattan commute, that’s your path. If you want the purist driving experience, the manual Premium is your answer.
Schedule a BRZ test drive at Grand Prix Subaru to compare both transmissions back to back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the BRZ Premium have Apple CarPlay? Yes. Both the Premium and Limited come with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through the 8-inch STARLINK multimedia system. You don’t need to upgrade to the Limited for smartphone connectivity.
Is the Subaru BRZ available with all-wheel drive? No. The BRZ is rear-wheel drive only across all trims and transmission options. This is intentional — rear-wheel drive is fundamental to the BRZ’s handling balance and driving character. Nassau County buyers who want AWD should look at the Subaru WRX instead.
Can you get EyeSight on the BRZ Premium trim? No. EyeSight driver-assist technology is exclusive to the Limited trim and only available when paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission. Manual transmission buyers across both trims cannot add EyeSight.
How much does the automatic add to the BRZ price? The automatic transmission adds $1,300 to both the Premium and Limited. Premium manual: $30,395; Premium auto: $31,695. Limited manual: $33,095; Limited auto: $34,395.
Are BRZ models in stock at Grand Prix Subaru in Hicksville? Grand Prix Subaru carries both new and certified pre-owned BRZ models. Check the current BRZ inventory online or call the Hicksville showroom to inquire about current stock and incoming vehicles.
Ready to Choose Your BRZ Trim in Nassau County?
The Premium and Limited BRZ deliver identical driving dynamics — the choice is purely about features. Visit Grand Prix Subaru in Hicksville to test-drive both trims and feel the difference between the standard brakes and the Brembo setup. For Nassau County sports car buyers, there’s no substitute for putting both trims back to back on the road.
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