Are Subaru BRZ Engines Powerful Enough?

The Subaru BRZ is a small sports coupe with a unique boxer engine that’s mounted low to allow more agile handling. But is it powerful enough to provide driving excitement?

2013 Subaru BRZ

Key Points

  • The BRZ’s engine–the FA20–is mounted low to improve handling. It produces 205 hp in models with manual transmission. Automatics get 200 horses. A turbocharger is not available.
  • The engine was named one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines of 2013. Then, in 2017, Subaru coaxed five more horses from the FA engine.
  • While the overall impression of the BRZ is one of a competent, nimble sports coupe, the engine powertrain has come in for some criticism due to lack of power.
  • Subaru’s modern FA and FB engines replaced the EJ in 2012, and potential issues soon followed. The 2013 BRZ was part of a global recall over potential engine issues that could lead to stalling.
  • “The BRZ is a supremely competent machine, even in greasy conditions, where its quick steering and alert chassis fill you with faith that the car will respond to your every command,” reported U.K. site Auto Car in 2018.
  • An all-new BRZ is slated for 2022, with a new 2.4-liter flat-four that increases power output to 228 horsepower. The new model will reportedly cost less than the outgoing model.
  • The BRZ’s direct handling and hatchback utility make for a thrilling drive in a practical car. But for true driving thrills, more power may be needed. You may have to try a few different models to see if the BRZ speaks to you.

2014 Subaru BRZ

Subaru BRZ Engine: Reliable, or Overrated?

Like in every modern Subaru, the BRZ’s engine is a boxer layout that allows the engine to be mounted lower in the chassis. This lowers the center of gravity and improves handling characteristics, which is especially important for a sporty car like the BRZ.

The engine itself is known as the FA20, and it produces 205 horsepower and 156 lb.-ft. of torque in models equipped with a manual transmission. Automatics get 200 horses and 151 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s naturally aspirated and displaces two liters. Though the engine is available with a turbocharger in other Subaru models, it won’t fit in the compact BRZ.

The only car that shares the Subaru BRZ’s engine is the Toyota 86. The engine in the 86 is identical to the BRZ’s, but it uses a Toyota designation of 4U-GSE.

BRZ’s FA Features ‘Square’ Architecture, Named ‘Best Engine’

The engine was named one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines of 2013. “The 2.0L FA…musters luscious mid-range torque, loves to rev hard, and sounds tremendous, while being sedate at idle,” said Ward’s, which added: “it clobbers other naturally aspirated fours.”

In another article, Ward’s explains what makes the engine so good. “Unrelated to any previous Subaru H-4, the new engine uses a ‘square’ architecture, meaning its bore and stroke dimensions are the same at 3.38 inches, [which is] part of the reason for its quick-revving personality and 7,400 rpm redline,” said Ward’s.

Initially, both the manual and automatic versions had the same 200 horsepower rating, but in 2017, Subaru coaxed five more horses from the FA engine for those with manual transmissions.

The updated BRZ has an EPA rating of 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, down from original’s 22/30 mpg rating. The engine requires premium gasoline and lightweight 0W-20 oil.

Subaru BRZ - Photo - Subaru

BRZ Engine’s Performance Gets Mixed Reviews

While the overall impression of the BRZ is one of a competent, nimble sports coupe, the engine powertrain has come in for some criticism due to lack of power.

“The quickest BRZ we’ve tested went from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. Unfortunately, its flat-four makes unflattering noises and could use more power to help the BRZ reach its full potential,” explains Car & Driver.

Overall, they note the engine as the biggest drawback for the car, reporting: “the BRZ and its counterpart, the Toyota 86, are destined to suffer the same fate as the late Nissan 240SX—another coupe with a fantastic chassis that desperately needed an engine to match.”

However, Motor Trend disagrees. “Some will complain about the BRZ’s lack of power and torque, but it seems like the perfect amount of grunt for the platform’s weight and grip level. Exploring the upper reaches of this engine’s rev range and swapping cogs with the excellent manual transmission is a satisfying affair.”

2013 Subaru BRZ

FA20’s Performance and Reliability Marred by Recall

Subaru’s modern FA and FB engines replaced the venerable EJ in 2012, and potential issues with the BRZ’s engine soon followed. The 2013 BRZ was part of Subaru and Toyota’s recall of 400,000 vehicles worldwide for potential engine issues that could lead to a car stalling.

Toyota told Consumer Reports that engine valve springs in affected 2013 BRZs may fracture, leading to an unusual noise or engine malfunction. There is the possibility that the engine could stall while driving and not restart.

Also, in a 2012 report, Jalopnik mentions a rough idle issue. “At low rpms, an issue is causing the cars to shudder, idle rough, and in some cases stall. Some of the cars had just eight miles on the odometer when the issue surfaced, and then spent a few weeks at the dealer.”

However, Jalopnik adds that “it is an extremely rare condition found in a small number of U.S. Subaru BRZ vehicles. Customers will be alerted to the issue by a check engine light.”

More recently, the Subaru BRZ has been garnering positive reviews for its performance.

“The BRZ is a supremely competent machine, even in greasy conditions, where its quick steering and alert chassis fill you with faith that the car will respond to your every command,” reported the U.K. auto site Auto Car in 2018, after spending six months with a Subaru BRZ to conduct a long-term test review. “It does roll slightly, but this is part of the car’s communication process to let you know you’re approaching the limits of grip.”

“Few cars can mix a supple ride with composed cornering as well as this,” adds the review. “[The steering is] not exactly dripping with feel but delightfully responsive to make the BRZ feel light on its toes…Few modern cars can really get under your skin like this one. It’s like the plucky underdog everyone likes.”

2022 Subaru BRZ - Photo - Subaru

Higher HP, Lower MSRP Promised for 2022 BRZ

Reportedly, an all-new BRZ is slated for the 2022 model year. Under the hood will be a new 2.4-liter flat-four that increases power output to 228 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque.

“Access to that torque should come easier, with the new engine hitting max torque at 3,700 rpm rather than the 6,700 rpm required previously,” reports Motor Authority. “Max horsepower is still not achieved until 7,000 rpm.” They also note that Subaru has nixed a turbocharger for the car due to the cost.

Speaking of cost, the new model will actually debut with a price decrease over the current model, with Kelley Blue Book noting that the starting point is now $27,995, versus the $28,845 of the outgoing model.

So, How Does the BRZ’s Engine Stack Up Overall?

The BRZ is somewhat of an outlier in the current sport coupe landscape. Its closest American competitors, such as the Mustang and Camaro, are more powerful but more expensive, regardless of trim. The closest competitor is Mazda’s Miata, which also offers four-cylinder power and nimble handling.

You’ll love the BRZ’s direct handling and hatchback utility, but for true driving thrills, more power might be called for. Sporty cars are an emotional purchase, so try a few different models within your price range to see if the BRZ speaks to you.

Photos: Subaru; Evox Images

Frequently Asked Questions

Mar 31, 2022

How much horsepower can a Subaru BRZ engine handle?

The Subaru BRZ is a relatively affordable Japanese sports car and that has led to an enthusiast community forming around the vehicle. Many owners are looking to make modifications to their cars to make them more powerful. Some of the most common mods include tunes, intakes, turbos, and exhausts but it leaves people wondering how much power the engine can handle.

The consensus is that the stock engine can handle about 300 wheel horsepower before you start having problems with fuel delivery. At that point, you will usually need larger fuel rails and a more powerful fuel pump to keep up with the demand. The bottom end of the engine should have no issues going up to 350 wheel horsepower, but after that, you will want to get more stout internals.

The BRZ is a fun sports car and you can make them relatively quick with some mods. Just always remember when you modify your vehicle you will decrease its reliability in the pursuit of more power.

Is the BRZ or WRX faster?

The Subaru BRZ and WRX are aimed at different markets. The WRX is targeted more at the rally market and people looking for a fast sedan, whereas the BRZ is more of a sports coupe with rear-wheel-drive that would be better suited to autocross tracks. In a straight line though the WRX is going to be faster than a BRZ.

The WRX has more power than a BRZ, and it has an all-wheel-drive system which makes it a better choice if you are looking for something with better acceleration. The BRZ may be more fun though on city streets. The lower horsepower figures will let you accelerate harder without worrying about breaking the law. The BRZ may also be more fun on winding roads because it is rear-wheel-drive and can be more playful.

The WRX and BRZ each have their positive qualities and if you are looking for a fun Subaru ultimately you will just have to decide which you prefer. The WRX is a bit more modifiable as well which makes it a better choice if you want to have a very high-horsepower car.

Is the Subaru BRZ being discontinued?

The Subaru BRZ was paused after the 2020 model year and Toyota and Subaru do not plan on releasing one for the 2021 model year. There will be a new BRZ that is coming out for the 2022 model year and this will be a refresh of the entire platform.

The BRZ was first introduced in 2012 as a joint venture between Toyota and Subaru and is marketed as the Toyota 86 or the Subaru BRZ. After 8 years of producing the car, they felt that it was time for an update. The latest update will now give the vehicle 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque which is a healthy increase from the outgoing model.

The 2022 BRZ is also expected to have a starting price of $27,995 which is down nearly $1,000 from the 2020 model. Overall it seems that Subaru has improved the BRZ, and made it more affordable while still keeping the playful characteristics that helped them sell.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Dorothy S on August 13, 2021
The 2013 Subaru BRZ is a great car for the price!
My favorite feature of the brz is the handling. It has great pickup and hugs the curves well. Also very comfortable driver’s seat and loads of storage for a sports car! Only drawbacks are the rear seats are ridiculous with absolutely no leg room. Not sure what the point was since it is impossible to fit an adult back there. Also no controls for the stereo on the steering wheel. That should be standard in any car in this day and age.
accountCircle Mark R on August 15, 2021
2015 Subaru BRZ Limited: the good and the bad.
I love my Subaru brz. It is reliable and drives like a sports car, which is important to me. It is much more affordable than premium sports cars but provides the driver a good experience. I have owned the vehicle for over 3 years and have not had any issues so far with the reliability. The car is comfortable for front passengers but the back seats are too small to fit adults. The car performs well, has responsive steering and braking.
accountCircle Kevin D on August 12, 2021
The 2013 Subaru BRZ Limited is a great entry sports car. Beats anything steering wise under 50k.
This car has been great reliability wise. I would suggest getting a 2014 and up car due to valve spring issues on the earlier cars. It is fun to drive, but if you are coming from a non sports car it can honestly be pretty stiff. It really does not have many features in the earlier years. If that concerns you, buy a 2017 and above.
accountCircle Breanna B on August 16, 2021
2014 Subaru BRZ Premium is worth the money for the driving experience.
The car handles well, and truly feels like a driver’s car. I have a manual which adds to the experience. I have had issues with the ecu, and it has been replaced twice. Other than that, the car runs really well and has a sporty look. A great two-person car but not much room to seat people in the back.
accountCircle Nana t on August 12, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ: Good looking, fun car to drive.
It's a lightweight, compact, smooth handling vehicle that anyone can enjoy driving. The features may not be the most luxurious, if you are looking for a fun car to drive, this car is perfect. It looks good, handles great, and makes enough power for the motor with good amount of torque.
accountCircle Jacob F on August 15, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ Limited is a very good car if you live with good weather.
Bad in snow. Do not buy this car if you live in the north east. The winter mode is trash and does not help at all. It is good in the summer and fun to drive. Feels like a go kart. The suspension lets you feel every single bump in the road but it feels natural because you are so low.
accountCircle Jake S on August 12, 2021
The best vehicle I have owned: the 2014 Subaru BRZ PREMIUM.
Fantastic vehicle! I use it as a daily as well as a track vehicle on occasion. I have pushed it hard and it has not given me any issues whatsoever. Maintenance is easy and this car is just an all around joy to own, as it is one of the most affordable sport cars I have come across.
accountCircle 2018 Subaru BRZ tS on August 15, 2021
Versatile blue two door 2018 Subaru BRZ tS.
Nice interior but it lacks power. Love the brembo brake kit and nice 18 inch wheels. It is very attractive to other people. It is very versatile car but not a lot of interior space. Fits two people nicely but backspace it is almost nothing only smalls kids fit perfectly in there.
accountCircle Nana T on August 14, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ Premium is a nice, entry level sports car.
Looks great, easy to drive sports car for entry level drivers. Available in stick shift, good turning radius and handling, not fast but a quick car. The only complaint I have is the ac capacity as it takes forever to cool. Other than that, I truly enjoy driving this car.
accountCircle Andrew L on August 15, 2021
The 2014 Subaru BRZ Limited is especially beautiful.
The brz does not have a lot of power, but it is one of the best handling cars I have ever bought. The car also gets fantastic gas mileage. The brz is also one of my personal favorite looking cars, it is small but a blast to drive in corners and on the track.
accountCircle BRZ GUY on August 14, 2021
2017 Subaru BRZ handles like a dream!
Sure, the engine is not a powerhouse, but the power is more than adequate for any legal purpose, and the handling is absolutely superb. I love my BRZ more today than the day I drove it home, and I never start my engine without a rush of adrenaline.
accountCircle Rafaela G on August 11, 2021
My 2016 Subaru BRZ Premium is blue and has two doors.
It is reliable, I can confidently drive anywhere and know I will get there safe and effectively. It is also comfortable for the driver but not as comfortable for my passengers. This is a sporty car so it can be a fast car. So as a result is fun.
accountCircle Sheila A on August 11, 2021
A quick and simple overview of the 2017 Subaru BRZ Limited.
Performance is good, fun around tight curves. Car is reliable. Comfort is okay, everything heard on the road can be heard in the car so not great with sound dampening. Features about the car would be sport mode and modes for terrain like snow.
accountCircle Jennifer D on August 14, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ Premium is an affordable sports car that's great on gas.
My favorite part is the amazing gas mileage. It's hard to find a car that looks cool and is good on gas but I average 30 mpg. I would highly recommend buying this car if it fits your lifestyle. It's very fun to drive and looks amazing.
accountCircle Stefanie G on August 15, 2021
2015 Subaru BRZ is fast for a little thing!
Have had the car for a couple of months and no problems. Drives and shifts smoothly and is amazing on gas. Basically a super-safe yet fast and fuel-efficient sports car. Affordable, I paid under $20,000 for a 2015.
accountCircle Carson F on August 16, 2021
2014 Subaru BRZ is very fun but lacks the power of other sports cars.
Great little sports car! Currently have around 73k miles on it and it still runs great. Minor electrical problems have occurred (driver seat warmer stopped working) but nothing major. Very fun and reliable car.
accountCircle Andrea R on August 12, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ Limited has great gas mileage; turns heads!
I love my brz. It is great on gas mileage; about 32 miles per gallon. I have never had any problems with it except a recall, and Subaru covered it. It is a smooth drive considering it is a 'feel the road car.'
accountCircle Rebecca S on August 12, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ is not for families.
Fast, fuel efficient, higher maintenance bills, comfortable seating for 2. It does have a backseat but I do not recommend anyone trying to cram back there. Trunk is rather large for such a small car.
accountCircle Madison P on August 16, 2021
Great 2017 Subaru BRZ Premium and fun to drive.
This car is super fun to drive and handles really well. I recommend manual transmission if you have the option. The car is really cool to drive, nice interior and overall highly recommend!
accountCircle Tim F on August 12, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ LIMITED: a go kart for the streets.
It is been very reliable and a ton of fun to drive. You feel very connected with the car and the road. The 6 speed manual is a blast to shift with also. It is like a street legal go kart.
accountCircle Devon R on August 16, 2021
Why I love my 2013 Subaru BRZ Premium!
I love my car the driving on it is amazing! The steering is amazing as well! You can really drive pretty fast and take any turn and hug the turn and it does not slide or anything!
accountCircle Brent S on August 16, 2021
2017 Subaru BRZ LIMITED: fun car to drive, looks great.
It is a very fun car to drive but it needs a turbo. If you like driving back roads it is exhilarating. It is easy to modify and personalize to make your own.
accountCircle justin g on August 11, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ has a very great fuel economy so that you save on gas.
Beautiful car, very fuel efficient. There is a strong engine and great sound system as well.
accountCircle Christopher L on August 12, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ Limited: Stock with 200 horsepower and rear wheel drive and super light.
It is really fun to drive pretty quick stock. Has a lot of options to customize it.
accountCircle Tom P on August 15, 2021
2013 Subaru BRZ is fun to drive and sporty.
It is fun to drive, and affordable sport car.
avatar Michael D'Ambrosio
Mike D’Ambrosio is an automotive writer and photographer whose work has been featured in multiple publications, including Roundel, Jalopnik, Performance BMW Magazine, and Speedhunters. As a creative director, he’s worked with clients like BMW, MINI, and Jaguar Land Rover. He also maintains the automotive photography blog MachinesWithSouls.com.
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