2014 Subaru BRZ Engine: Specs & Performance

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2014 Subaru BRZ Engine: Specs & Performance

Let's dive deep into the heart of the 2014 Subaru BRZ! If you're curious about what powers this sporty coupe, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know about the engine in the 2014 BRZ, from its specifications to its performance characteristics. Whether you're a current BRZ owner, a potential buyer, or just an automotive enthusiast, this article will provide you with a comprehensive overview.

The FA20 Engine: Powering the 2014 Subaru BRZ

The 2014 Subaru BRZ is equipped with the FA20 engine, a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated, horizontally opposed (flat-four) engine. This engine is part of Subaru's FA engine family and was co-developed with Toyota. The FA20 is specifically designed for performance and efficiency, making it a perfect fit for the BRZ's sporty character. One of the standout features of this engine is its use of direct injection, which helps to improve fuel economy and power output. Direct injection allows the fuel to be injected directly into the combustion chamber, resulting in a more precise and efficient combustion process. This technology, combined with other advanced features, helps the FA20 engine deliver a balanced combination of power and efficiency.

Furthermore, the horizontally opposed configuration of the engine, also known as a boxer engine, contributes to the BRZ's low center of gravity. This design helps to improve the car's handling and stability, making it more responsive and fun to drive. The engine's compact size and lightweight construction also play a role in enhancing the car's overall performance. The FA20 engine in the 2014 BRZ produces around 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. While this may not seem like a huge amount of power, it's important to remember that the BRZ is a lightweight car, which means that the engine's output is more than sufficient to provide an engaging driving experience. The engine is also known for its rev-happy nature, which means that it enjoys being revved to higher RPMs. This characteristic adds to the car's sporty feel and makes it a joy to drive on twisty roads. Overall, the FA20 engine is a well-engineered and capable powerplant that is perfectly suited to the 2014 Subaru BRZ. Its combination of direct injection, horizontally opposed design, and lightweight construction makes it a standout engine in its class.

Key Features of the FA20 Engine

  • Displacement: 2.0-liter
  • Configuration: Horizontally opposed (flat-four) or boxer engine
  • Fuel Delivery: Direct injection
  • Horsepower: Approximately 200 hp
  • Torque: Approximately 151 lb-ft

Performance and Driving Experience

When you get behind the wheel of the 2014 Subaru BRZ, the FA20 engine truly shines. The engine's responsiveness and willingness to rev make it a blast to drive, especially on winding roads. The BRZ's lightweight design further enhances the driving experience, allowing it to feel nimble and agile. The combination of the FA20 engine and the BRZ's chassis creates a balanced and engaging driving experience that is sure to put a smile on your face. The engine's power delivery is smooth and linear, which makes it easy to control and predictable in corners. This is especially important for drivers who are new to sports cars or performance driving. The BRZ's handling is also excellent, thanks to its low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension. The car feels planted and stable, even when pushed hard through corners. This gives the driver confidence to explore the car's limits and improve their driving skills. In addition to its performance capabilities, the FA20 engine is also relatively fuel-efficient. The BRZ can achieve up to 30 mpg on the highway, which is impressive for a sports car. This makes it a practical choice for daily driving, as well as weekend canyon runs.

The BRZ's standard six-speed manual transmission is a joy to use, with short, precise throws and a well-weighted clutch. The manual transmission allows the driver to fully engage with the engine and extract the most performance from it. An automatic transmission is also available, but it is not as engaging as the manual. The automatic transmission does offer paddle shifters, which allow the driver to manually select gears, but it still doesn't provide the same level of control and involvement as the manual. Overall, the FA20 engine and the BRZ's chassis work together to create a driving experience that is both fun and rewarding. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a novice driver, the BRZ is sure to impress with its performance and handling. The car's balanced nature and predictable behavior make it a great platform for learning and improving your driving skills. And with its relatively fuel-efficient engine, the BRZ is also a practical choice for everyday use.

Driving Impressions

  • Responsive Engine: Quick and eager to rev.
  • Balanced Handling: Low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension.
  • Engaging Transmission: Precise and rewarding to use.

Engine Specifications in Detail

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. The FA20 engine in the 2014 Subaru BRZ boasts a bore and stroke of 86mm x 86mm, giving it a square engine design. This design helps the engine rev freely and contributes to its balanced performance. The engine also features a high compression ratio of 12.5:1, which helps to improve its efficiency and power output. The cylinder heads are made from aluminum alloy, which helps to reduce weight and improve cooling. The engine also features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, which allows for optimal airflow and combustion. The FA20 engine also incorporates Toyota's D-4S direct injection system, which combines direct injection with port injection. This system helps to optimize fuel delivery and reduce emissions. The direct injection system sprays fuel directly into the combustion chamber, while the port injection system sprays fuel into the intake ports. This combination of direct and port injection helps to improve fuel economy, power output, and emissions.

The engine's lubrication system is a wet sump design, which means that the oil is stored in a pan at the bottom of the engine. The engine also features an oil cooler, which helps to keep the oil temperature down during hard driving. This is important for maintaining the engine's performance and preventing damage. The engine's cooling system is a liquid-cooled design, which means that it uses coolant to transfer heat away from the engine. The engine also features a radiator, which helps to dissipate the heat from the coolant. The engine's exhaust system is a dual exhaust design, which helps to improve exhaust flow and reduce backpressure. The engine also features a catalytic converter, which helps to reduce emissions. Overall, the FA20 engine is a well-engineered and sophisticated powerplant that is designed to deliver a balanced combination of performance and efficiency. Its advanced features and technologies make it a standout engine in its class. The engine's square engine design, high compression ratio, and dual overhead camshafts all contribute to its rev-happy nature and balanced performance. And its direct injection system helps to improve fuel economy, power output, and emissions.

FA20 Engine Tech Specs

  • Engine Code: FA20
  • Displacement: 1,998 cc (2.0 liters)
  • Bore x Stroke: 86 mm x 86 mm
  • Compression Ratio: 12.5:1
  • Fuel System: Direct injection (Toyota D-4S)

Reliability and Maintenance

Regarding the FA20 engine found in the 2014 Subaru BRZ, it's generally considered a reliable engine when properly maintained. Like any performance engine, regular maintenance is key to ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. This includes following the recommended oil change intervals, using high-quality oil, and keeping up with other scheduled maintenance items. One of the most important maintenance items for the FA20 engine is the oil change. It is recommended to change the oil every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Using high-quality synthetic oil is also recommended, as it provides better protection against wear and tear. Another important maintenance item is the air filter. A clean air filter helps to ensure that the engine is getting the proper amount of air, which is important for performance and fuel economy. The air filter should be checked regularly and replaced as needed.

In addition to regular maintenance, it's also important to be aware of some common issues that can affect the FA20 engine. One common issue is carbon buildup on the intake valves. This can occur due to the engine's direct injection system, which can cause oil and fuel vapors to accumulate on the valves. Carbon buildup can lead to reduced performance, poor fuel economy, and even engine damage. To prevent carbon buildup, it is recommended to use a fuel system cleaner regularly and to perform an intake valve cleaning service every 30,000 miles. Another common issue is oil consumption. Some FA20 engines have been known to consume oil at a higher rate than normal. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn piston rings, leaky valve seals, and excessive idling. To prevent oil consumption, it is recommended to check the oil level regularly and to address any leaks or other issues promptly. Overall, the FA20 engine is a reliable engine when properly maintained. By following the recommended maintenance intervals and being aware of some common issues, you can help to ensure that your 2014 Subaru BRZ runs smoothly for years to come.

Tips for Maintaining Your FA20 Engine

  • Regular Oil Changes: Stick to the recommended intervals.
  • Use Quality Oil: Opt for synthetic oil for better protection.
  • Monitor Oil Levels: Keep an eye on oil consumption.

Conclusion

The 2014 Subaru BRZ is a fantastic sports car, and the FA20 engine is a big part of what makes it so enjoyable. Its blend of performance, efficiency, and reliability makes it a great choice for enthusiasts and daily drivers alike. So, if you're considering a 2014 BRZ, you can be confident that you're getting a well-engineered and capable engine that will provide you with years of driving pleasure. The FA20 engine's combination of direct injection, horizontally opposed design, and lightweight construction makes it a standout engine in its class. And its rev-happy nature and balanced performance make it a joy to drive. Whether you're carving up canyon roads or just cruising around town, the FA20 engine is sure to impress. And with proper maintenance, you can expect it to provide you with many years of reliable service. So, go ahead and take that 2014 BRZ for a spin – you won't be disappointed!