The Subaru BRZ already stands out as a sharp-handling, rear-wheel-drive sports car that rewards drivers on every twisty road. But even the most enthusiastic owners sometimes crave more punch from the boxer engine. The Stage 2 Turbo Kit delivers exactly that—an extra 50 horsepower and a noticeably broader torque curve—without requiring a second mortgage. Priced under $2,500, this kit offers one of the most cost-effective power upgrades for the BRZ, making it accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts who want to wake up the car's true potential.

What Exactly Is a Stage 2 Turbo Kit for the BRZ?

A “Stage 2” turbo setup typically builds on a base forced-induction system by adding larger injectors, a higher-flow fuel pump, and a more aggressive ECU tune. For the Subaru BRZ, a dedicated Stage 2 kit includes a turbocharger, intercooler, upgraded fuel components, and a custom calibration. The result is a reliable 50-horsepower increase over stock, with the torque curve shifting earlier and staying flatter across the rev range. Unlike a full custom turbo build that can spiral in cost and complexity, this kit is intentionally engineered as a bolt-on package that keeps installation straightforward.

Key Components of the Kit

  • Turbocharger: A precision-machined, journal-bearing or ball-bearing unit designed to spool quickly on the BRZ’s 2.0L FA20 engine. The turbine housing is optimized for low-end response while still delivering top-end flow for the extra 50 hp.
  • Front-Mounted Intercooler (FMIC): Reduces intake air temperatures significantly compared to the stock top-mount setup. Cooler air means denser charge and less risk of detonation, allowing the tuner to run more aggressive timing.
  • Fuel System Upgrades: The kit includes high-flow fuel injectors (often 550cc or larger) and a higher-capacity in-tank fuel pump. These ensure the engine receives enough fuel under boost to maintain air/fuel ratios in the safe zone.
  • ECU Tune: A custom flash or piggyback controller that remaps ignition timing, fuel delivery, and boost pressure. The tune is the brain of the kit—without it, the hardware alone won’t deliver the advertised gains or reliability.
  • Oil and Coolant Lines: Braided stainless-steel lines, fittings, and a turbo oil drain kit are included for a clean, reliable installation.

Supported Modifications and Compatibility

This Stage 2 kit is designed for the 2013–2020 Subaru BRZ (and its Toyota 86/Scion FR-S siblings). It works with both manual and automatic transmissions, though the manual is the preferred platform for extracting maximum performance. The kit is also compatible with most aftermarket exhaust systems, though a cat-back or axle-back is recommended to help the turbo breathe. Owners with stock exhausts may still see gains, but a freer-flowing setup enhances spool and top-end power.

Installation Process: What to Expect

Installing a Stage 2 turbo kit requires intermediate mechanical skills. While the kit is designed to be as “bolt-on” as possible, expect to spend a weekend if you’re doing it yourself, or a day if a professional shop handles it.

Tools and Preparation

  • Basic hand tools: socket set (metric), wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers
  • Torque wrench (inch-pounds and foot-pounds)
  • Jack and jack stands or a lift
  • Engine support bar (if removing the header)
  • Coolant drain pan and fresh coolant
  • Shop towels and brake cleaner

Step-by-Step Installation Outline

  1. Disconnect battery and drain fluids. Remove the battery and tray, drain the engine coolant, and consider draining the engine oil if you plan to replace it.
  2. Remove factory intake and exhaust. The stock airbox, intake manifold, and exhaust headers must come out. On some kits, the oil pan may need to be dropped to install the turbo oil return line.
  3. Install the turbo manifold and turbocharger. Bolt the cast or tubular manifold to the engine, then mount the turbo. Use new gaskets and apply anti-seize to studs.
  4. Mount the intercooler. The front-mount intercooler fits behind the bumper beam. You may need to trim the plastic bumper support slightly for clearance.
  5. Run charge pipes and intake piping. Connect the turbo outlet to the intercooler, then the intercooler to the throttle body. Install the intake filter and ducting.
  6. Upgrade fuel system components. Replace the fuel injectors (may require removing the intake manifold) and swap the fuel pump in the tank.
  7. Connect oil and coolant lines. Feed the turbo with oil from a sandwich plate or dedicated port, and run coolant lines to the turbo bearing housing.
  8. Reassemble and refill fluids. Install the battery, fill coolant, check oil level, and prime the turbo system.
  9. ECU Tune. Connect a flashing tool and upload the supplied calibration. First start requires monitoring for leaks and proper idle.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

If you have experience with turbocharging and engine wiring, the DIY route is rewarding and saves labor costs. Expect about 12–16 hours for a first-time install. Professionals typically charge between $500 and $800 for the labor, bringing the total cost closer to $3,000–$3,300. The premium is worth it if you lack the tools, time, or confidence—especially for the tuning and fuel system work.

Performance Gains: More Than Just a Number

The advertised 50-horsepower increase is a conservative, safe figure. On a dyno, many Stage 2 BRZ kits produce around 240–260 wheel horsepower (up from roughly 190–200 whp stock). Torque jumps from about 150 lb-ft to 210–230 lb-ft at the wheels. That translates into dramatically improved acceleration without overwhelming the chassis or drivetrain.

Dyno Results and Real-World Driving

  • 0–60 mph: Stock BRZ runs about 6.2 seconds. With the Stage 2 kit, times drop to the 4.9–5.2 second range, depending on traction and shifting.
  • Quarter-mile: Stock is around 14.5 seconds at 97 mph. Stage 2 can dip into the low 13s at 105–108 mph.
  • Daily driving feel: The engine no longer feels flat above 5,500 rpm. Boost builds from 2,800 rpm, with strong mid-range pull that makes merging and passing effortless.
  • Throttle response: A well-tuned Stage 2 kit eliminates the stock FA20’s dip in torque around 4,000 rpm. The curve is linear, making the car more predictable on track.

Because the kit retains the stock compression ratio and conservative boost levels (around 7–8 psi), engine stresses remain within safe parameters. Many owners report trouble-free daily driving for tens of thousands of miles with proper maintenance.

Cost Breakdown: Getting the Most for Your Money

The kit itself is the star: $2,500 (typically $2,000–$2,200 for the hardware and tune, plus injectors and pump if not included). But the total investment goes beyond the box price.

Itemized Costs

  • Stage 2 Turbo Kit: $2,000–$2,200
  • Professional installation (recommended for most): $500–$800
  • ECU tune (if kit doesn’t include it): $300–$500
  • Supporting mods (optional but beneficial): Performance clutch ($400–$600), upgraded radiator ($200–$400), oil cooler ($300–$500)
  • Consumables (coolant, oil, gaskets): $75–$125
  • Total (DIY with basic kit): ~$2,500
  • Total (full professional install with supporting mods): ~$4,000–$4,500

Even on the high end, the cost-per-horsepower ratio is outstanding compared to naturally aspirated modifications (think headers, intake, tune) that might deliver 15–20 hp for $1,500. The Stage 2 turbo provides triple the power gain per dollar.

Reliability and Tuning Considerations

The FA20 engine is robust but sensitive to detonation. A proper tune is non-negotiable. Most reputable Stage 2 kits come with a base map that is safe for pump gas (91–93 octane). However, every engine is slightly different, so a custom dyno tune or data-logging session is strongly advised. Running a quality oil (5W-30 full synthetic), monitoring oil temperatures, and letting the turbo cool down before shutdown will extend the system’s life.

A common myth is that adding boost reduces engine life dramatically. In reality, a conservative 7 psi on a modern engine with proper fueling and cooling yields a long service life—many cars surpass 100,000 miles on a Stage 2 kit without major issues. The weak point tends to be the clutch on manual cars; the stock unit handles the torque at first but slips with aggressive driving. Budget for a performance clutch if you plan to drive hard.

Alternative Upgrade Paths: Turbo vs. Supercharger vs. All-Motor

The Stage 2 turbo isn’t the only way to add power, but it strikes a unique balance. Compare it to:

  • Supercharger kits: Cost $3,500–$5,500 for similar power. They offer instant throttle response but generate more heat and under-hood packaging issues. The turbo’s efficiency often yields better peak numbers for the price.
  • Stage 1 turbo kits: Usually ~$1,500–$2,000, but only deliver 30–40 hp. The Stage 2 gives more power per dollar and includes the fuel upgrades needed for future growth.
  • Bolt-on naturally aspirated builds: Headers, intake, tune, and exhaust (~$1,800) give maybe 20 hp. You’ll never reach Stage 2 levels without forced induction.

For the money, the Stage 2 turbo is the sweet spot. It transforms the BRZ from a momentum car into a genuine sports coupe that can hang with much pricier machinery.

Final Thoughts: Is the Stage 2 Turbo Kit Right for You?

The Subaru BRZ Stage 2 Turbo Kit is a well-rounded, accessible upgrade that respects the car’s balanced character while injecting genuine excitement. It’s not a wild, high-boost setup that compromises daily drivability—it’s a thoughtful enhancement that makes the BRZ faster everywhere you press the throttle.

If you’re looking for an under-$2,500 path to a transformative power increase, this kit is hard to beat. Just remember to budget for professional installation if you’re not confident in your wrenching skills, and always invest in a quality tune. With those boxes checked, you’ll enjoy a new lease on life for your BRZ—one that keeps the corners sharp and the straights far more interesting.

For deeper technical discussions, check out the FT86 Club forced induction forum or the Subaru BRZ Forum Stage 2 experiences thread. If you want to compare kit reviews, Tuner Speed has a comprehensive BRZ turbo kit comparison that includes dyno charts. For those who prefer a video guide, Engineering Explained covers the engineering behind small-displacement turbocharging.