The BRZ is powered by a 2.4-litre horizontally-opposed ‘boxer’ four-cylinder petrol engine, making 174kW of power and 250Nm of torque.

It drives the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, and is aided by a Torsen limited slip differential.

The BRZ is a strict four-seater only, with enough room up front for adults but very limited space out back.

For its second-generation iteration, the dashboard has been completely redesigned, and features a modern layout with an 8.0-inch touchscreen perched in the centre, offering most of the modern multimedia amenities as well as a camera and access to vehicle and communication functionality.

The instrumentation is digital and very clear; storage is surprisingly good, and even vision out from within the excellent driving position has been improved compared to before.

The Subaru BRZ can sprint from standstill to 100km/h (0-100km/h) in 6.6 seconds, on the way to a top speed of up to 226km/h.

Every BRZ comes with keyless entry/start, adaptive LED headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, a reversing camera, satellite navigation, digital radio, wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated and power-folding exterior mirrors, a mechanical limited-slip differential, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep systems, tyre pressure monitors and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Stepping up to the BRZ S sees a suede-like material and leather replace cloth, as well as heated front seats, while the tS ushers in sportier suspension, Brembo brakes, some blacked-out trim, a push-button start, unique instrumentation and red/black colours inside.

The Subaru BRZ is classed as a '2+2'-seater. This means it has two conventional bucket seats up front, and a bench offering two places for occasional use out back.

They are usually suitable only for smaller children, though larger adults can travel for short stints on them as well. The backrest folds in one piece to increase cargo capacity into the cabin.

The BRZ averages either 9.5 or 8.8L/100km on the combined cycle, depending on whether it is a manual or automatic respectively.

This translates to 217 grams per kilometre of carbon dioxide emissions for the manual, and 201g/km for the auto.

Topping the 50-litre tank requires expensive 98 RON premium unleaded petrol. Using the 8.8L/100km average combined figure, expect nearly 570km between refills.