What engine does the 2019 BRZ have?
The 2019 BRZ uses a 2.0-liter flat-four engine (Subaru FA20D), a naturally aspirated boxer engine that delivers roughly 200–205 horsepower and about 150–156 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission depending on the market.
Engine Type and Configuration
Key design features of the BRZ’s powerplant are outlined below.
- Displacement: 2.0 liters
- Configuration: horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder
- Aspiration: naturally aspirated
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 16 valves
- Variable valve timing: AVCS (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence)
- Engine family: FA20D (Subaru/BRZ family)
- Turbocharging: none — the engine is naturally aspirated
In short, the BRZ’s engine is designed for a low center of gravity, high-revving responses, and balanced handling characteristics that suit its driver-focused chassis.
FA20D Details
For those tracking the engine code, the FA20D is the 2.0-liter boxer four developed for Subaru’s BRZ/86 lineup. In the 2017 refresh, output was boosted to about 205 horsepower, while torque remained in the low-to-mid 150s, depending on market.
Performance Figures
The following figures illustrate typical performance for the 2019 BRZ with the 2.0-liter engine. Note that exact numbers vary by market and transmission choice.
- Horsepower: approximately 200 hp (with later revisions around 205 hp in some markets)
- Torque: around 151–156 lb-ft of torque
- Redline: about 7,000 rpm
- Compression ratio: around 12.5:1
- Induction: naturally aspirated
These figures reflect a focus on high-revving, responsive performance rather than outright torque, aligning with the BRZ’s sport-centric design philosophy.
Transmission Pairing
The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission as standard in most markets, with a six-speed automatic offered as an option in some regions. The manual transmission enhances the connected, driver-centric feel the BRZ is known for.
Why this engine matters
The 2.0-liter FA20D boxer engine contributes to the BRZ’s characteristic balance and handling. The horizontally opposed configuration helps lower the center of gravity and reduce overall weight transfer during cornering, supporting the car’s reputation as a nimble, predictable sports coupe rather than a torque-heavy performer.
Summary
In the 2019 BRZ, Subaru’s 2.0-liter flat-four engine (FA20D) powers the car with natural aspiration, delivering about 200–205 horsepower and roughly 150–156 lb-ft of torque. The setup emphasizes high-revving responsiveness, precise handling, and a driver-focused experience, available with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission depending on market.
