GT86 4U-GSE 4UGSE FR-S FA20 FA20D 2.0L ENGINE: A Comprehensive Guide

Buy JDM SUBARU BRZ TOYOTA GT86 4U-GSE 4UGSE FR-S FA20 FA20D 2.0L ENGINE for sale online,  The GT86 is a popular sports car produced by Toyota and Subaru, renowned for its lightweight chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and performance-driven engineering. The heart of this iconic vehicle is its 2.0L engine, known by various names, including the 4U-GSE, 4UGSE, FA20, and FA20D. This engine is celebrated for its balance between power, efficiency, and handling, making the GT86 and its variants like the FR-S a favorite among car enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of the 2.0L engine and answer some frequently asked questions.

Overview of the GT86 2.0L Engine

The 2.0L engine powering the GT86 is a boxer engine, also known as a flat-four engine, developed in collaboration between Toyota and Subaru. This engine plays a key role in the car’s low center of gravity, which improves handling and overall driving dynamics.

Key Specifications

• Engine Type: 2.0L naturally aspirated flat-four (Boxer)
• Engine Codes: 4U-GSE, 4UGSE, FA20, FA20D
• Displacement: 1998 cc
• Power Output: 197 hp (146 kW) at 7,000 RPM
• Torque: 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) at 6,400 RPM
• Compression Ratio: 12.5:1
• Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
• Fuel Type: Petrol (Gasoline)
• Aspiration: Naturally aspirated (NA)
• Cooling System: Water-cooled

Engine Variants: FA20 vs. 4U-GSE/4UGSE

Though the engine is generally the same, there are subtle differences between the various codes used for the 2.0L engine found in the GT86 and its siblings:

• FA20: This is the base engine code used for the GT86 in both the U.S. and international markets. The FA20 engine is part of Subaru’s engine lineup, designed with a high compression ratio and modern engineering to ensure maximum performance and fuel efficiency.

• 4U-GSE / 4UGSE: These codes refer to the Toyota-specific version of the engine. While the core engine design remains the same, Toyota’s version comes with slight variations to its engine management system and intake/exhaust configurations, which slightly impacts its power output and tuning. These differences are particularly relevant for the FR-S and the Japanese Toyota 86 models.

Key Features of the Engine

1. Flat-Four Boxer Configuration: The engine’s design, with horizontally opposed cylinders, gives it a lower center of gravity, contributing to the GT86’s balanced handling and responsiveness.

2. Dual VVT-i: Both the intake and exhaust valves benefit from variable valve timing, enhancing engine efficiency, power, and fuel economy.

3. D4-S Direct & Port Fuel Injection: A combination of direct injection and port injection helps optimize fuel delivery, improving both power output and efficiency.

4. Lightweight Design: The FA20 engine is built to be compact and lightweight, contributing to the overall low weight of the car, a key factor in its agility and handling.

5. Performance Tuning: The GT86’s 2.0L engine is tuned to deliver a balance between performance and everyday usability. It produces enough power to give the car a thrilling driving experience while maintaining relatively good fuel efficiency for a sports car.

FR-S and Subaru BRZ

The FR-S (Scion FR-S in the U.S.) and the Subaru BRZ are closely related to the GT86, sharing the same chassis, engine platform, and performance characteristics. However, each brand puts its own spin on the design and tuning.

• FR-S: In the FR-S, the 2.0L engine (4U-GSE / 4UGSE) is tuned with slightly different intake and exhaust configurations to provide a unique driving experience, with some enthusiasts noting a sharper throttle response.

• Subaru BRZ: The Subaru version of the car uses the FA20 engine and shares a very similar tuning philosophy with the GT86. However, Subaru’s suspension setup and small engineering tweaks make the BRZ a bit more focused on raw handling and cornering agility.

FAQs About the 4U-GSE / 4UGSE / FA20 Engine

1. What is the difference between the 4U-GSE and FA20 engines?

The main difference between the 4U-GSE and FA20 is the brand tuning. The 4U-GSE engine, found in the Toyota 86 (and its FR-S variant), is a Toyota-specific version of the engine with slight variations in the intake and exhaust setup, leading to a marginal difference in power output. Both engines are essentially the same in terms of core design and specifications.

2. How much horsepower does the 2.0L engine produce?

The 2.0L boxer engine produces around 197 horsepower (146 kW) at 7,000 RPM, with 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) of torque at 6,400 RPM.

3. Is the FA20 engine turbocharged?

No, the FA20 engine is naturally aspirated. It doesn’t feature forced induction (like a turbocharger), which helps it achieve a pure, responsive driving experience.

4. What makes the 4U-GSE / FA20 engine special?

The 4U-GSE / FA20 engine is renowned for its boxer configuration, which lowers the center of gravity and enhances handling. Combined with Dual VVT-i for better efficiency and power, and a D4-S direct and port fuel injection system, it delivers a high level of performance without sacrificing fuel economy.

5. What cars use the 2.0L FA20 engine?

The FA20 engine is used in a variety of performance vehicles, including:

• Toyota GT86 (and its variants like the Toyota 86 and FR-S)
• Subaru BRZ
• Toyota 86 GR (the newer, more powerful model)
• Some Subaru models (such as the Subaru Impreza WRX in certain regions)

6. What kind of performance can I expect from the GT86 with the 2.0L engine?

The GT86 with the 2.0L engine offers a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.2 seconds, making it a quick and nimble sports car that’s perfect for twisty mountain roads and track days.

7. Is the 4U-GSE / FA20 engine reliable?

Yes, the 4U-GSE / FA20 engine is generally regarded as very reliable, with many owners reporting trouble-free performance when properly maintained. Regular oil changes, coolant checks, and other basic maintenance will keep the engine running smoothly for many miles.

8. Can I modify the 2.0L engine for more power?

Yes, the FA20 engine is relatively easy to modify, with many aftermarket parts available, including turbocharging kits, intake and exhaust systems, and ECU tuning options. However, performance modifications can affect reliability, so it’s important to approach tuning carefully.

Conclusion

The 2.0L FA20 engine is a key component of the Toyota GT86, Subaru BRZ, and FR-S, offering a thrilling combination of power, responsiveness, and efficiency. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car or interested in modifying the engine for more performance, the FA20 engine provides a strong foundation for enthusiasts. With its boxer layout and excellent balance, this engine continues to be a fan favorite in the world of small, agile sports cars.