Top 3 Great Years for a Used Subaru BRZ (and 2 to Skip)

The Subaru BRZ and its related models, the Toyota GR86 (formerly known as the GT86) and Scion FR-S, are among the top choices for budget-friendly performance vehicles available today. The BRZ has been consistently produced since the 2013 model year, providing a wide range of trims, features, and updates across two generations. These are lightweight sports cars that are simple to customize, making them ideal for both new drivers and serious racers. There are even racing competitions specifically for 86-platform vehicles. This leads to the question — with so many model years and such a rich history, which one is the best and which is the worst?

We will consider two primary aspects when ranking: generational and incremental variations. The Subaru BRZ has two separate generations, with the second generation introduced in 2022. The first generation, on the other hand, received a mid-cycle update in 2017, featuring numerous new additions, which essentially makes it a 1.5-generation model. Each of these different periods in the BRZ's history will be taken into account, with the top model year from each period chosen based on a wide range of criteria.

Overall, these vehicles will provide you with a comparable experience: the feel of a clubman car at an affordable price. This aspect is unlikely to change from one model year to the next; a 2026 model features a fundamental, naturally-aspirated boxer engine paired with a six-speed manual that drives the rear wheels, just like the 2013 model. However, there are specific years worth noting, for either positive or negative reasons. From issues with reliability to special trims, let's take a closer look and examine the top and bottom years for the Subaru BRZ.

Read more: 8 Unreasonably Popular Cars That Are Overhyped

Year to skip: 2013

The year 2013 was the first for the Subaru BRZ and its related models, and as with many new beginnings, there were some challenges. It's not unusual for new platforms to experience initial problems, from mechanical issues to electrical problems. In this instance, it unfortunately included the famous boxer engine (the "B" in the BRZ designation) These boxer engines are characterized by the cylinder banks being directly opposite each other — one bank extends straight left, while the other extends to the right, effectively creating a flat engine block. Almost every new Subaru features such an engine, and these engines often come with their own distinct characteristics. Unfortunately, for this initial model year, those characteristics led to issues for many owners.

In truth, the 2013 BRZ has a greater number of documented problems on theNHTSA databaseMore than any other model year, it has 63 customer complaints and 2 recalls. One recall is related to a valve spring failure that led to valvetrain issues and affected the engine's performance. Although the first-generation BRZ is praised for its thrilling nature, these vehicles are probably much more enjoyable when they aren't being towed.

That being said, some owners have noted high mileage readings on 2013 BRZ models. Reliability issues often arise from how the vehicles were handled by their owners; as track-oriented and cost-effective cars, the BRZ is often pushed to its limits. That being said, these models are considered the most rugged compared to other years because they were brand-new, and Subaru required time to resolve initial problems. Issues such as valve problems were eventually fixed, but early models without these repairs could lead to more challenges than enjoyment.

Year of first generation: 2016

This was the last full year prior to the mid-cycle update, and likely the optimal year for a first-generation model, although generally any BRZ manufactured between 2014 and 2016 will be acceptable since Subaru had resolved the initial problems by then. Specifically, the years 2015 and 2016 represented peak periods for BRZ reliability, with no significant mechanical recalls issued. More importantly, there is no longer a dubious reputation regarding the valvetrain from this point onward, thoughSubaru's flat-four engines are known to experience various widespread issues..

Although not all boxer engines are the same, the first-generation BRZ (excluding the 2013 model) is known for its reliability, provided it isn't regularly misused. The FA20 engine beneath the hood is now in its teenage years and is seen as a flexible, solidly constructed design following its initial challenges. The 2016 model year offers several small but significant improvements.

First, it offers a relatively low initial cost if you're considering a BRZ, depreciating approximately $1,000 annually as of 2026, according toKelley Blue BookIt maintains all the features of earlier models but without the reliability issues, and includes features such as Starlink Multimedia, which is available for the first time this year. The 2016 model was also offered in a limited-run Hyperblue variant, with only 500 units produced, which could be the choice if you're looking for a rare BRZ. While none of the first-generation BRZs are particularly poor, the 2016 model provides some unique conveniences and special options that set it apart from the rest. When combined with its relatively low cost, the 2016 model is considered the best among the first-gen BRZs.

Gen 1.5 years to get: 2020

Subaru introduced an updated BRZ for 2017 with several modifications. Key mechanical enhancements featured adjusted suspension design for better handling, a more compact final drive ratio to enhance acceleration, a new "Track" setting for the stability control system, and an increase in power to 205 hp (previously 200). The rear subframe also saw added reinforcement. Alongside updates such as a redesigned exterior, larger wheels, and a more refined cabin, these changes make the Gen 1.5 model the best way to experience an earlier BRZ. According to many reviews, they are reliable, everyday vehicles for those who prefer practicality, yet offer a more sporty driving experience.

There aren't any significant problematic models among the Gen 1.5 BRZs; they tend to be uniform in quality, without major recalls or substantial modifications over time. These vehicles are also relatively uncommon, with sales of fewer than 3,000 units in both 2019 and 2020. In general, each of these cars is a reliable choice, but the 2020 model year particularly shines due to its technological and comfort improvements.

All 2020 models were available in Limited or tS trims, with the latter being restricted to 300 units. This indicates that every 2020 model comes equipped with a factory Torsen limited-slip differential, LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, and additional features. It represents the most advanced and polished offering from the first generation, and because it's the latest model, it's less probable that it has experienced many years of heavy use. In terms of Gen 1.5 model years, 2020 is a solid option.

Gen 2 model to avoid: 2022

The second generation of the BRZ began in 2022 and brought several significant updates to both the platform and powertrain. The sports car now features a larger 2.4-liter boxer engine producing 228 horsepower, along with a new driver-oriented interior that kept most of the enhancements and features from earlier model years. These include the same infotainment systems, the same type of limited-slip differential, and transmission choices, as well as Subaru's Starlink Multimedia connectivity, among other elements. In every way, it was a highly modern and well-equipped vehicle for its price range under $30,000, and its modesty proved to be an advantage.

However, similar to the BRZ's initial release year, the first second-generation BRZ has also faced customer complaints, though in smaller numbers compared to earlier models. Still, some of these problems are quite serious, such as RTV sealant leaking into the oil system and blocking the oil pump, resulting in oil starvation. One owner experienced this issue so severely that it damaged their engine after only 31 miles. Honestly, the seriousness of this problem should not be ignored, especially since the following model years are still under warranty and are experiencing comparable depreciation rates.

The engine problems here represent a low point for the Gen 2 Subaru BRZ, if there ever was one; all later models do not have such obvious issues. That being said, the problem isn't common enough to cause significant worry, and the model year is still too recent to know if any long-term issues might still be hidden.

Gen 2 year to get: 2024

When it comes to discussing reliability, it has to be put on hold for newer BRZ models, as these vehicles are too recent to provide an accurate evaluation. The second-generation models have only been on the road for approximately four or five years, with many still covered by the three-year factory warranty and five-year powertrain warranty. That being said, it's reasonable to expect that the level of refinement is such that they will be just as, if not more, dependable than earlier models. The ideal choice in 2026, for several reasons, is the 2024 model year.

The first reason is tied to why we initially choose a BRZ: it's a cost-effective sports car. Subaru brought back the tS trim level in 2024, representing the peak of this concept. It's essentially a modified BRZ with a warranty sticker, including bigger 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes with larger rotors, a tuned suspension system using Hitachi dampers, and unique interior materials. In terms of affordability, this sets the benchmark for a quality used sports car that doesn't come with a high price tag.a Mazda MX-5 or any of the BRZ options out there.

In addition, the 2024 model year brings several minor yet noticeable upgrades throughout the range, with the most significant being the inclusion of Subaru's EyeSight advanced safety system. This offers standard features such as adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane keep assist, making the 2024 BRZ the most up-to-date vehicle in terms of technology. However, EyeSight has its detractors, so if you prefer to avoid it, consider a 2023 model and install bigger wheels along with a suspension tune for a comparable experience without the complications.

Our methodology

To determine the top years for the BRZ, we utilized information from various online sources, including owner vlogs, forum discussions, and expert reviews from reputable publications. For customer feedback, we examined resources such as Car Complaints, the NHTSA database, long-term user reviews, and specialized forums to ensure a comprehensive approach.

Several of these reviews centered around how easy and enjoyable it was to drive the vehicles, considering factors such as comfort, usefulness, appearance, and overall livability. Our approach concentrated on more measurable, concrete information, including dependability and test results, comparisons with other subcompact models, and distinctive characteristics of each model year.

Since these vehicles are still being manufactured and the majority of model years are less than ten years old as of 2026, there is simply not enough information to provide accurate predictions about the lifespan of newer models. Therefore, we concentrated on what we can determine and the characteristics that differentiate various model years of a car that looks the same visually.

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