
The Subaru BRZ is equipped with a naturally aspirated engine with the code name FA20 and a displacement of 2.0 liters. This engine was jointly developed by Subaru and Toyota, delivering a maximum horsepower of 200 hp, a maximum power output of 147 kW, and a peak torque of 205 Nm. The Subaru BRZ has body dimensions of 4240mm in length, 1775mm in width, and 1285mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2570mm. The car features a horizontally opposed engine layout and a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration. It is equipped with a front MacPherson strut independent suspension and a rear double-wishbone suspension. The new model boasts a more sporty exterior design and comes with 225/40ZR18 tires, while the chassis has been reinforced for greater durability.

I've been driving the BRZ for a while now. This sports car consistently uses Subaru's signature horizontally opposed engine, like a symmetrical box. This design gives the car an ultra-low center of gravity, making cornering extremely stable. The first generation from 2012 to 2020 used the FA20 model, a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine with smooth power output, delivering around 197 horsepower. It easily revs up to 7000 RPM, making high-speed overtaking exhilarating with strong acceleration, yet remains fuel-efficient, with real-world highway fuel consumption under 9L/100km. Driving on mountain roads is where I feel it most—the engine roar is thrilling, the low center of gravity combined with rear-wheel drive provides excellent balance, making it beginner-friendly for drifting. Just upgrading the intake and exhaust noticeably improves handling. Maintenance isn't complicated; regular oil and filter changes suffice, and 4S technicians often praise its durability. The FA20's lightweight design is a highlight, with the whole car weighing just 1200 kg, making daily commuting and cornering agile, unlike some cars with high-mounted engines that feel unstable. While its horsepower can't match turbocharged sports cars, the pure driving pleasure is top-tier, perfect for enthusiasts like me who prioritize handling. In 2022, the second generation upgraded to the FA24 engine, a 2.4L pushing 228 horsepower with significantly increased torque, making acceleration noticeably quicker according to friends who test-drove it. Yet, the fundamental design remains unchanged, preserving the BRZ's unique Boxer character and securing its niche sports car status.

As a BRZ owner for three years, its horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, the first-generation FA20 with a 2.0L displacement, makes daily driving enjoyable. It responds quickly when starting from traffic lights in the city, accelerating smoothly without hesitation due to its lightweight. A full tank can cover 500 kilometers for my daily commute, so rising fuel prices don't worry me. The reliability is truly impressive—I've never encountered engine stalls or major repairs, just routine maintenance for peace of mind. The engine layout keeps the chassis low, making it easy to navigate ramps without scraping, and my wife appreciates the easy entry and exit. The 2022 model upgraded to the FA24 engine, a 2.4L with more horsepower, delivering stronger and more stable power on highways, making acceleration and overtaking swift. Maintenance costs are affordable, with oil changes costing just a few hundred bucks if done myself. As for drawbacks, some might find the stock horsepower lacking, but I've gotten used to it—it's not about straight-line speed but cornering and balance. The engine noise isn't too loud, remaining quiet during highway cruising without interfering with music. Overall, as a daily driver, the engine performs excellently with great value for money. I recommend it to practical-minded friends—it's an economical choice among small-displacement sports cars.

For car enthusiasts like me who love modifications, the BRZ's engine is a treasure. It uses Subaru's horizontally opposed four-cylinder, either the FA20 or FA24 model, with a base design that's the perfect starting point for modifications. The stock FA20 only delivers 197 horsepower, but after I upgraded the intake and exhaust systems, it jumped to 250 hp, with more responsive revs, making track driving incredibly thrilling. The FA24 has even greater potential, with its naturally aspirated engine offering high durability, and lightweight parts can enhance its center-of-gravity advantage. Community experience suggests avoiding reckless turbocharging, as it can easily lead to overheating. It's recommended to start with an ECU remap. After modifications, the cornering grip is off the charts, feeling like flying close to the ground. Maintenance is straightforward, and DIY part replacements are convenient.

Friends who have driven both the old and new BRZ, please share your thoughts. The first generation in 2012 used the FA20 engine, a 2.0L naturally aspirated with 197 hp, designed purely for agile city driving with direct response. Later in 2022, the second generation switched to the FA24, a 2.4L with 228 hp, making a big leap in torque and acceleration, offering stronger low-end punch while maintaining the low center of gravity from the boxer layout. I've test-driven both—the older model is lighter and more nimble on mountain roads, while the newer one feels more stable at high speeds. The engine evolution kept it naturally aspirated, unlike some cars that complicate things with turbos. Subaru's tradition keeps its positioning unique.


