The Subaru BRZ, a collaborative effort with Toyota (who markets it as the GR86), has captivated enthusiasts with its rear-wheel-drive layout, nimble handling, and affordable price point. However, like any vehicle, certain model years of the BRZ stand out as being more desirable than others, whether due to improvements in performance, reliability, or features. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the best and worst years for the Subaru BRZ, helping you make an informed decision when purchasing this iconic sports car.
Subaru BRZ Model Year Overview
| Model Year | Key Features/Changes | Potential Issues/Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | First model year, naturally aspirated 2.0L engine, 6-speed manual/automatic | Valve spring recall (affects some early models), oil starvation concerns under extreme conditions |
| 2014 | Minor updates, improved engine management | Valve spring recall (affects some early models), oil starvation concerns under extreme conditions |
| 2015 | Limited Edition Series.Blue introduced | Valve spring recall (affects some early models), oil starvation concerns under extreme conditions |
| 2016 | Minor interior updates, upgraded infotainment system | Oil starvation concerns under extreme conditions |
| 2017 | Mid-cycle refresh, revised styling, increased power (manual transmission models), upgraded suspension | Potential for increased engine wear with added power, oil starvation concerns under extreme conditions |
| 2018 | Performance Package option (Brembo brakes, Sachs dampers) | Oil starvation concerns under extreme conditions |
| 2019 | tS trim level introduced (STI-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, other performance upgrades) | Oil starvation concerns under extreme conditions |
| 2020 | Final year of the first generation, limited edition Hakone Edition | Oil starvation concerns under extreme conditions |
| 2022 | Second generation introduced, naturally aspirated 2.4L engine, significantly improved performance and handling | Potential for infotainment glitches in early production models |
| 2023 | Minor updates | Potential for infotainment glitches in early production models |
| 2024 | Minor updates, tS trim level reintroduced with STI-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes |
Detailed Explanations
2013: The inaugural year of the BRZ. It's powered by a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine producing around 200 horsepower, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. While it offered the purest, most raw driving experience, early models were subject to a valve spring recall. Also, the FA20 engine's oiling system was sometimes inadequate under sustained high-G cornering, leading to potential oil starvation.
2014: The 2014 model year received minor updates and improvements to the engine management system. However, it shared the same potential issues as the 2013 model, including the valve spring recall and concerns about oil starvation under extreme conditions.
2015: Aside from the Limited Edition Series.Blue, the 2015 BRZ carried over largely unchanged. The valve spring recall continued to affect some early production models. The oil starvation issue remained a concern for those who frequently tracked their cars.
2016: Minor interior updates, including an upgraded infotainment system, were the main changes for 2016. The engine and mechanical components remained the same as previous years. The oil starvation issue still needed to be addressed by owners who tracked their cars.
2017: A significant mid-cycle refresh brought revised styling, a slight power increase (5 hp and 5 lb-ft of torque) for manual transmission models, and an upgraded suspension. While the power bump was modest, it did put additional stress on the engine. The oil starvation issue remained a concern, and the added power may have exacerbated existing engine wear for some owners.
2018: The 2018 model year introduced the Performance Package option, which included Brembo brakes and Sachs dampers. This package significantly improved the car's handling and braking performance, making it a more capable track car. The oil starvation concerns continued to be a factor for track enthusiasts.
2019: The tS trim level, featuring STI-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and other performance upgrades, debuted in 2019. This model offered a more refined and engaging driving experience compared to the standard BRZ. Like previous models, oil starvation remained a potential issue under extreme track conditions.
2020: The final year of the first generation BRZ, the 2020 model year featured a limited edition Hakone Edition with unique exterior and interior styling. Mechanically, it was similar to the 2017-2019 models, with the same oil starvation concerns.
2022: The second generation BRZ was a major overhaul, featuring a larger and more powerful 2.4L naturally aspirated engine. This resulted in a significant improvement in performance and handling. Early production models experienced some infotainment glitches, but these were generally addressed through software updates.
2023: The 2023 BRZ received minor updates. The potential for infotainment glitches in early production models remained a possibility, but most issues were resolved with software updates.
2024: The 2024 model year sees the reintroduction of the tS trim level, now featuring STI-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes as standard. This promises to be the most performance-focused second-generation BRZ yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which BRZ year is most reliable? Generally, the 2016 model year and newer (first generation), and the 2023+ second generation BRZs are considered more reliable due to fewer reported issues and fixes to early problems.
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Is the valve spring recall a serious issue? Yes, if your BRZ is affected by the valve spring recall, it's crucial to have it addressed by a Subaru dealer as it can lead to engine failure.
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Does the BRZ have oil starvation issues? Yes, first-generation BRZs (2013-2020) can experience oil starvation under sustained high-G cornering, especially on track days. An aftermarket oil cooler or accusump system is highly recommended for track use.
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Is the second generation BRZ (2022+) better than the first? Yes, the second generation BRZ offers significantly improved performance, handling, and a more modern interior, making it a superior choice overall.
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Are the infotainment glitches in the 2022 BRZ a major concern? While some early production 2022 BRZs experienced infotainment glitches, most issues were resolved through software updates and are not a widespread problem.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the "best" year for the Subaru BRZ depends on your individual needs and preferences. The second-generation models (2022+) offer the most significant improvements in performance and technology, while later first-generation models (2017-2020) provide a good balance of features and value. Consider your budget, intended use, and desired features when making your decision.