What kind of engine is in the BRZ?
The BRZ uses a horizontally opposed, or "boxer," four‑cylinder engine. In its first generation it used a 2.0-liter unit, while the current generation uses a larger 2.4-liter engine developed in collaboration with Toyota. Both engines are naturally aspirated and paired with rear‑wheel drive, with a manual or automatic transmission depending on trim and market.
The BRZ is renowned for its low center of gravity and balanced handling, a pairing that comes directly from its boxer engine layout. As the model evolved, Subaru and Toyota expanded displacement to improve mid‑range torque while preserving the lightweight, high‑revving character that enthusiasts expect from the sport coupe.
Generations and displacement
The BRZ has two generations with two distinct engine displacements. The original model used a 2.0-liter four‑cylinder; the latest generation adopted a 2.4-liter version co‑developed with Toyota to boost mid‑range power and overall outputs.
First-generation details (2012–2020)
Key specifications for the original 2.0-liter boxer engine:
- Displacement: 2.0 L (FA20D)
- Configuration: Flat-four (boxer), horizontally opposed
- Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
- Power: about 200 hp (147 kW)
- Torque: about 151 lb-ft (205 Nm)
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
These figures defined the early BRZ’s character: lightweight, accessible power, and a high‑revving nature that appealed to driving enthusiasts.
Second-generation details (2022–present)
Key specifications for the 2.4-liter boxer engine:
- Displacement: 2.4 L (FA24)
- Configuration: Flat-four (boxer), horizontally opposed
- Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
- Power: about 228 hp (170 kW)
- Torque: about 184 lb-ft (250 Nm)
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
The 2.4-liter variant delivers stronger mid‑range torque and higher peak power while preserving the BRZ’s lightweight, balanced feel.
Notes on collaboration and market variations
Subaru and Toyota collaborated on the BRZ and its sibling, the Toyota GR86 (and its variants sold in different markets). The engine blocks and tuning reflect shared engineering goals, with Toyota contributing calibration for the updated 2.4-liter variant in the latest models. Specifications can vary slightly by market and model year due to emissions rules, trim levels, and transmission choices.
Summary
The BRZ’s engine identity rests in its boxer configuration. It began with a 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated four‑cylinder and evolved to a 2.4-liter version in the current generation, maintaining rear‑wheel drive and options for a manual or automatic gearbox. Developed through a Subaru–Toyota collaboration, the BRZ remains a compact, high‑revving sports coupe with an emphasis on balance and driver engagement.
