How much HP can a BRZ hold?
Stock BRZ models deliver roughly 200–228 horsepower depending on generation, and with proper tuning and supporting upgrades most cars can reliably reach about 300–350 horsepower. Pushing beyond that pushes you into significant reliability and cost considerations, often requiring substantial engine and drivetrain work.
The stock horsepower landscape by generation
The BRZ lineup has evolved from the 2.0-liter FA20 engine in earlier years to the newer 2.4-liter FA24 engine in the latest models. This shift increased the baseline horsepower across generations. Below are the official figures you’ll typically see in the market today.
- First-generation BRZ (2013–2020): 200 hp with the early FA20 engine, rising to 205 hp in later MYs; torque around 151–156 lb-ft depending on year and spec.
- Second-generation BRZ / GR86 (2022–present): 228 hp with the FA24 engine; torque around 184 lb-ft, with transmission choice affecting the exact torque figure.
These figures establish the starting point for any horsepower upgrades and help define the practical limits you’ll seek to exceed with modifications.
Practical horsepower ceiling
In practical terms, a BRZ build can follow a few common upgrade paths, each with a typical horsepower range. The limits depend on the generation, the quality of parts, and how well the system is supported (fuel, cooling, and drivetrain).
- Stage 1 bolt-ons plus a tune (intake, exhaust, headers, and calibration): generally increases a FA20-based BRZ to roughly 230–270 hp and FA24-based BRZ/GR86 to about 260–290 hp, depending on the exact kit and tune.
- Stage 2 forced induction (turbo or supercharger): commonly targets 300–380 hp on FA20 platforms; 350–420 hp on FA24-equipped cars with appropriate hardware and fuel systems.
- Stage 3 and beyond (built engine, high-boost systems): 400+ hp is achievable with forged internals, upgraded cooling and fuel systems, and a strengthened drivetrain, but these are specialized builds and not typical for daily driving.
These ranges reflect typical outcomes from reputable tuners and community benchmarks. Real-world results vary with quality of parts, tuning expertise, and how the car is used (daily driving vs. track duties).
Key limits and upgrades to consider
Reaching higher horsepower on a BRZ involves more than just turning up a dial. Several components become limiting factors and often require upgrades to stay reliable and safe.
- Drivetrain and clutch: the stock clutch and manual transmission are the primary bottlenecks as power increases beyond the mid-range. Upgrades or replacements are common for high-power builds.
- Cooling system: higher power generates more heat. Upgraded radiators, oil coolers, and sometimes intercooling (for forced induction) help maintain reliability.
- Fuel system and ECU: bigger injectors, a higher-capacity fuel pump, and proper ECU calibration are essential for safe, consistent power delivery.
- Suspension and tires: more power requires better grip and handling to translate horsepower into usable performance; that often means upgraded brakes, dampers, sway bars, and higher-performance tires.
- Reliability considerations: daily-driven cars at the upper end of the horsepower range may require extra maintenance, more frequent service intervals, and careful part selection to avoid reliability issues.
When planning a BRZ build, map out a staged plan (Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3) with clear goals, and consult experienced tuners to align engine, fuel, cooling, and drivetrain upgrades for the target power level.
Owners pursuing higher horsepower should consider how they intend to use the car. Track-focused builds can justify more aggressive upgrades, while daily drivers benefit from a more conservative, reliable setup. Always factor in cost, maintenance, insurance, and the availability of high-quality parts for your generation (FA20 vs FA24) when planning a long-term project.
Summary
The BRZ’s stock horsepower ranges from about 200–205 hp in early FA20 models to 228 hp in the latest FA24-powered cars. A practical, reliable upgrade path typically lands in the 300–350 hp range, with 400+ hp possible only through extensive, high-cost builds that include forged internals, cooling and fuel-system upgrades, and drivetrain improvements. Your exact ceiling depends on the generation, the parts chosen, and how well the system is engineered and tuned. For most drivers, a thoughtfully planned Stage 1–Stage 2 build provides a meaningful boost without sacrificing daily drivability.
End of article. For any specific build, consult a qualified tuner familiar with BRZ/GR86 platforms to tailor the plan to your model year and use case.
