For 2014, the Subaru BRZ is essentially unchanged apart from gaining standard smartphone integration.

Before last year, talking about a Subaru in the same breath as iconic sports cars like the Datsun 240Z and Porsche 944 would have raised eyebrows. Yet when the Subaru BRZ debuted last year, such comparisons flowed freely -- and rightfully so. With its superb chassis, communicative steering and light weight, the 2014 Subaru BRZ is proof that you don't need a lot of power to have a lot of fun.

The BRZ also proves that this decidedly different Japanese car brand isn't tethered to tradition. Since 1997, every Subaru has had all-wheel drive, and almost all of its U.S. market performance models have been turbocharged. In the BRZ, however, the rear wheels are driven by a naturally aspirated, 200-horsepower flat-4 "boxer" engine. This architecture is the result of the car being developed with Toyota, which sells the similar FR-S under its Scion brand.

The collaboration produced a winner, as that layout is key to the BRZ's impressive handling capabilities. Going with rear-wheel drive (rather than all-wheel drive) and the flat-4 engine allowed the powertrain to be set farther back, and lower, in the chassis. That architecture translates to an ideal fore-aft weight balance as well as a low center of gravity. Mix in wonderfully communicative steering and a low 2,700-pound curb weight and the result is a brilliantly balanced sports car that's one of the most rewarding to drive, regardless of cost.

Therefore, if practicality or racing away from traffic lights is a priority, the 2014 Subaru BRZ probably isn't for you. However, it should be very appealing to those who value an involving drive and back-roads athleticism in a small, affordable package that comes packed with features.