Pulse Reviews and Analysis
Best Subaru BRZ Model Years (Ranked)
Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate
Best Subaru BRZ Model Years (Ranked)
The Subaru BRZ is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe co-developed with Toyota and built around a low-mounted boxer four-cylinder engine for an unusually low center of gravity. Sold across two generations — the first-generation ZC6 (2013-2020) with the naturally aspirated 2.0L FA20 and the second-generation ZD8 (2022-present) with the larger 2.4L FA24 — the BRZ prioritizes balance, steering feel, and affordability over outright horsepower.
Used examples are plentiful and reasonably priced, but model year matters: the second generation cured the original's notorious mid-range torque dip, and a few early first-gen cars carry minor quirks. This ranking covers the best Subaru BRZ model years, their engines, known issues, and where the value lies today.
Direct Answer
The best overall Subaru BRZ is the 2022-2024 second-generation (ZD8), which adds the 2.4L FA24 boxer making 228 horsepower, eliminates the old torque dip, stiffens the chassis, and modernizes the interior while keeping the car light and engaging. For shoppers focused on value, the best value is the 2017-2020 first-generation (ZC6) Performance Package car, which gains Brembo brakes and SACHS dampers, sharper handling, and a strong used-market price well below a new ZD8.
Avoid expecting big power from any BRZ; the appeal is balance and feel. First-gen cars are reliable but slower, so test-drive before deciding whether the extra torque of the second generation is worth the premium.
1. 2022-2024 Second Generation (ZD8) — 2.4L FA24 🏆 BEST OVERALL
The second-generation BRZ is the definitive version. The new 2.4L FA24 naturally aspirated boxer produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, and crucially it erases the flat spot that plagued the first-gen 2.0L around 4,000 rpm. A stiffer chassis, retuned suspension, and a more modern interior with a digital gauge cluster sharpen the whole experience.
Both a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic are offered, with the manual the enthusiast's choice. The car remains light, communicative, and affordable to run. Early reliability has been strong, though some owners note occasional rod-bearing concerns on heavily tracked cars.
For most buyers, a clean low-mileage ZD8 manual is the BRZ to own.
2. 2017-2020 First Generation (ZC6) — Performance Package 💎 BEST VALUE
The facelifted first-generation BRZ with the Performance Package is the value champion. Introduced for 2017, this option adds Brembo four-piston front and two-piston rear brakes, SACHS performance dampers, and lightweight 17-inch wheels, transforming an already nimble car into a genuinely sharp track-day tool.
The 2.0L FA20 still makes 205 horsepower (manual) and retains the mid-range dip, but the chassis upgrades make it the most rewarding ZC6 to drive. The best value is a 2017-2020 Performance Package manual, which delivers the best first-gen hardware at a used price far below a new car.
These are well-documented, reliable cars when maintained, and depreciation has made them a smart enthusiast buy.
3. 2024 BRZ tS
The 2024 BRZ tS is the most focused factory second-gen car. Tuned by Subaru Tecnica International, it adds STI-developed SACHS dampers, larger Brembo brakes (front and rear), and unique chassis tuning for crisper turn-in and better body control, while keeping the 2.4L FA24 and 228 horsepower.
It is offered only with the six-speed manual, underscoring its enthusiast intent. The tS does not add power, staying true to the BRZ philosophy of balance over brute force. As the sharpest-handling factory BRZ, it commands a premium and is harder to find used, but for a driver who wants the best stock chassis without aftermarket modification, the tS is the standout pick within the ZD8 family.
4. 2013-2014 First Generation (ZC6) — Launch Cars
The original 2013-2014 BRZ launched the nameplate and remains a pure, lightweight driver's car. The 2.0L FA20 boxer made 200 horsepower (manual; 197 with the automatic), paired with a slick six-speed manual and a famously communicative chassis on skinny, grippy-enough Michelin tires.
These early cars carry the well-known mid-range torque dip around 4,000 rpm and modest interior materials, but they are mechanically simple and inexpensive on the used market. Some early units saw a valve-spring recall (2013) that should be verified as completed. For a buyer who wants the cheapest entry into BRZ ownership and prizes feel over speed, a clean launch-year manual is a rewarding, low-cost classic-in-the-making.
5. 2025 Second Generation (ZD8, Updated)
The 2025 BRZ continues the second generation with minor updates and the same proven 2.4L FA24 making 228 horsepower. As the newest used option, it offers the longest remaining factory warranty, the most modern infotainment, and the refined chassis of the ZD8 platform without the price of a brand-new car once lightly used examples appear.
Available again with the six-speed manual or automatic, the 2025 car carries forward the tS as a sharper variant. Early-ownership reliability mirrors the rest of the second generation, which has been dependable. Buy this one if you want a nearly new BRZ with full warranty coverage and the latest equipment, and you are comfortable paying close to new-car pricing.
6. 2015-2016 First Generation (ZC6) — Series.Blue and Special Editions
The mid-cycle 2015-2016 BRZ models added incremental refinement and several collectible special editions, including the 2015 Series.Blue (limited WR Blue Pearl run with STI-tuned suspension components) and the 2016 Series.HyperBlue and HyperBlue trims with unique colors and bolstered equipment.
Mechanically these retain the 2.0L FA20 at 200 horsepower and the familiar torque dip, but the limited editions came with upgraded dampers and styling that improved the driving experience. They are more sought-after than base cars and can hold value slightly better. For a buyer who wants a distinctive, lightly upgraded first-gen BRZ with collector appeal, a clean Series.Blue or HyperBlue manual is an appealing choice.
7. 2022-2024 BRZ Premium (Base Trim)
The base BRZ Premium in the second generation delivers the core ZD8 experience at the lowest second-gen price. It includes the 2.4L FA24 with 228 horsepower, the stiffer chassis, and the choice of manual or automatic, while doing without some of the Limited trim's leather and convenience features.
Lighter equipment can mean slightly less weight, which purists appreciate, and the Premium's smaller wheels with higher-profile tires can ride a touch better. It misses some driver-assistance tech bundled with the automatic. For a buyer who wants the modern engine and chassis without paying for luxury extras, a used 2022-2024 Premium manual is a sensible, focused way into second-generation ownership.
8. 2017-2020 First Generation (ZC6) — Limited (Without Performance Package)
The 2017-2020 BRZ Limited without the Performance Package is the comfortable, well-equipped first-gen choice. It pairs the 2.0L FA20 at 205 horsepower (manual) with leather-and-Alcantara seats, heated front seats, and the updated infotainment of the facelift, plus revised styling and a standard rear spoiler.
It lacks the Brembo brakes and SACHS dampers of the Performance Package, so it is less track-focused, but it is a refined, livable daily-driver sports coupe. These cars are plentiful and affordable used, and the facelift's extra power and equipment make them more desirable than the earliest examples.
For a buyer who values comfort and features over outright track hardware, the Limited is a strong everyday pick.
9. 2013-2020 First Generation (ZC6) — Automatic
Any first-generation BRZ with the six-speed automatic ranks below its manual counterpart for enthusiasts but suits buyers who want an easy daily driver. The automatic detunes the 2.0L FA20 slightly (around 197-200 horsepower) and dulls the engagement that defines the car, though paddle shifters and a sport mode help.
The automatic is mechanically reliable and makes the BRZ accessible to drivers who cannot or prefer not to row their own gears. It also tends to be cheaper on the used market than the manual. For commuters who still want sharp handling and rear-drive balance but need two-pedal convenience, an automatic ZC6 is a practical, lower-cost option, even if it sacrifices some of the BRZ's signature character.
10. 2022-2025 BRZ Automatic (ZD8)
The second-generation BRZ with the six-speed automatic closes out the ranking. It keeps the 2.4L FA24 and 228 horsepower and benefits from the ZD8's improved chassis and torque curve, but the automatic remains a torque-converter unit rather than a quick dual-clutch, so it lacks the sharpness enthusiasts crave.
Choosing the automatic does unlock EyeSight driver-assistance features unavailable on the manual, which appeals to safety-minded buyers. It drives well and is reliable, but the manual is the clear enthusiast's pick. For a buyer who wants modern second-gen refinement with two-pedal ease and added safety tech, the automatic ZD8 is a reasonable, if less involving, choice.
What to Watch For When Buying
- Verify recalls via the VIN, including the early 2013 valve-spring recall on first-gen cars and any later service campaigns through Subaru and the NHTSA database.
- Confirm oil maintenance — the FA20 and FA24 boxers benefit from strict oil-change intervals; ask for records and check for any history of oil consumption or low-oil events.
- Inspect for track and clutch abuse, since many BRZs are driven hard; check the clutch, tires, brakes, and look for evidence of autocross or track days.
- Listen for the first-gen torque dip on a test drive; it is normal, not a fault, but confirm you can live with it before buying a ZC6.
- Check the suspension and bushings on higher-mileage cars, and verify the Performance Package hardware (Brembo brakes, SACHS dampers) is genuine on cars advertised as such.
- Prefer manual transmissions for resale and engagement, but confirm smooth shifting and no notchiness or grinding.
How to Choose
Match the BRZ to your priorities. For the best blend of power, refinement, and feel, the 2022-2025 second-generation ZD8 is the answer, with the manual the enthusiast's choice and the 2024 tS the sharpest factory chassis. For the best value with proven simplicity, a 2017-2020 first-generation Performance Package car delivers Brembo brakes and SACHS dampers at a fraction of new-car cost.
Budget buyers can consider early 2013-2014 launch cars for the lowest entry price, accepting the mid-range torque dip. Drivers needing two-pedal ease should look at an automatic, ideally the ZD8 with EyeSight. In every case, favor a documented manual with clean maintenance records.
FAQ
Which Subaru BRZ years should I avoid? No BRZ year is genuinely bad, but the earliest 2013-2014 cars have the most pronounced mid-range torque dip, the most basic interior, and should be checked for the 2013 valve-spring recall. Heavily tracked examples of any year carry more wear risk than the model year itself.
What is the BRZ torque dip? First-generation cars with the 2.0L FA20 have a noticeable flat spot in power around 4,000 rpm caused by the intake and tuning. It is normal behavior, not a defect, and Subaru eliminated it on the second-generation 2.4L FA24 engine.
Is the Subaru BRZ reliable? Yes. Both generations are generally dependable when maintained, with strict oil changes the key requirement. The FA20 and FA24 boxers are durable in stock form, though heavily tracked cars can see accelerated clutch, brake, and bearing wear.
Manual or automatic BRZ — which is better? The six-speed manual is the enthusiast's choice and holds value better, delivering the engagement the BRZ was designed for. The automatic is more relaxed for daily driving and, on the second-gen ZD8, unlocks EyeSight driver-assistance features unavailable with the manual.
Bottom Line
The Subaru BRZ is one of the most affordable ways into a balanced, rear-drive sports coupe, and model year choice comes down to engine and hardware. The 2022-2025 second-generation ZD8 is the best overall pick, thanks to the 2.4L FA24 that erases the old torque dip, while the 2017-2020 Performance Package first-gen car offers the best value with Brembo brakes and SACHS dampers.
Favor a documented manual, verify maintenance and recalls, and the BRZ rewards with feel and balance few cars match at the price.
Sources
- Subaru of America official BRZ model history and specifications, subaru.com
- NHTSA recall database for Subaru BRZ including the 2013 valve-spring recall, nhtsa.gov
- EPA Fuel Economy ratings for Subaru BRZ by model year, fueleconomy.gov
- Car and Driver Subaru BRZ first-drive and generation reviews, caranddriver.com
- Edmunds Subaru BRZ generation reviews and used-car appraisals, edmunds.com
- Kelley Blue Book Subaru BRZ used values by model year, kbb.com
- Wikipedia Subaru BRZ generations and technical specifications, en.wikipedia.org