HKS GTIII-RS Turbo Kit for 2022+ Subaru BRZ / Toyota GR86

Why the BRZ is the Perfect Platform for Forced Induction

The 2022+ Subaru BRZ represents everything enthusiasts love about pure sports cars: a lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive, a low center of gravity, and a naturally aspirated boxer engine that rewards drivers who explore the upper reaches of the tachometer. From the factory, the second-generation BRZ delivers 228 horsepower from its 2.4-liter FA24 engine—a noticeable improvement over the first generation's FA20.

The Natural Progression of BRZ Ownership

Most BRZ owners follow a familiar modification path. It typically starts with the essentials: a quality intake for improved throttle response and induction sound, a cat-back or header-back exhaust to free up flow and unlock that signature boxer rumble, and a proper tune to tie everything together. These bolt-ons can net 15-25 wheel horsepower on a naturally aspirated FA24—meaningful gains that enhance the driving experience without fundamentally changing the car's character.

But there comes a point where NA tuning hits diminishing returns. Once you've optimized airflow in and out of the engine and calibrated the ECU to take advantage of those modifications, you're left with a choice: accept the platform's naturally aspirated ceiling, or break through it with forced induction.

Why the FA24 Responds So Well to Boost

The FA24 engine in the 2022+ BRZ is exceptionally well-suited for turbocharging. It shares its fundamental architecture with the turbocharged FA24 found in the 2022+ WRX, meaning the bottom end was designed with boost in mind. Key attributes that make the FA24 turbo-friendly include:

• Robust bottom end — Forged crankshaft and strong connecting rods handle increased cylinder pressures
• Direct injection — Provides precise fuel delivery and helps combat detonation under boost
• Square bore/stroke ratio — Efficient combustion chamber design that responds well to forced induction
• Improved cooling — Better oil and coolant flow compared to the previous FA20

These characteristics mean the FA24 can reliably handle moderate boost levels without requiring expensive internal engine modifications—making a quality turbo kit an attractive option for owners seeking 300+ wheel horsepower while maintaining streetability and reliability.

Introduction to the HKS GTIII-RS Turbo Kit

When it comes to forced induction, HKS is a name that needs little introduction. With decades of experience developing turbo systems for Japanese sports cars, HKS has earned a reputation for engineering complete, well-integrated kits that deliver real-world performance without sacrificing reliability. The GTIII-RS turbo kit for the 2022+ BRZ and GR86 represents their latest achievement—a comprehensive bolt-on turbo system purpose-built for the FA24 platform.

The GTIII-RS Turbocharger Design Philosophy

At the heart of this kit is the HKS GTIII-RS turbocharger, a compact and efficient unit specifically selected to complement the FA24's displacement and powerband. HKS designed the GTIII-RS series with a focus on minimizing turbo lag while maximizing usable power across the entire RPM range—critical considerations for a lightweight, momentum-based sports car like the BRZ.

Key characteristics of the GTIII-RS turbo include:

• Ball-bearing center cartridge — Reduces friction for faster spool-up and improved throttle response compared to journal bearing designs
• Optimized A/R ratios — Compressor and turbine housings sized specifically for the FA24's airflow requirements
• Compact footprint — Designed to fit within the BRZ's tight engine bay without clearance issues
• High-quality construction — Built to HKS's exacting standards for durability under sustained high-boost conditions

A Complete Bolt-On Solution

What separates the HKS GTIII-RS kit from piecing together a custom turbo setup is its comprehensive, engineered-as-a-system approach. This isn't just a turbo and some piping—it's a complete package where every component has been designed and tested to work together seamlessly. HKS developed the kit to be a true bolt-on solution, meaning no cutting, welding, or fabrication is required during installation.

The kit includes everything needed to convert your naturally aspirated BRZ to turbocharged power:

• HKS GTIII-RS ball-bearing turbocharger
• Cast exhaust manifold with integrated wastegate flange
• Front-mount intercooler with piping
• Turbo inlet and outlet piping
• Oil feed and return lines
• Coolant lines for water-cooled turbo bearings
• Blow-off valve
• All necessary gaskets, hardware, and brackets

Turbo vs. Supercharger: Why Choose the GTIII-RS?

BRZ owners considering forced induction often debate between turbocharging and supercharging. Both have merits, but the HKS turbo kit offers distinct advantages for drivers seeking maximum power potential:

For drivers who prioritize outright power potential and efficiency—and don't mind a slight delay before boost builds—the GTIII-RS turbo kit is the clear choice. The ball-bearing design minimizes lag, making the power delivery feel responsive and natural in a chassis as communicative as the BRZ.

Performance Gains & Kit Components

The HKS GTIII-RS turbo kit is engineered to deliver substantial power gains while maintaining the reliability and driveability that make the BRZ such an engaging platform. Let's break down the performance targets and examine the key components that make this system work.

Power Output & Boost Levels

On a properly tuned 2022+ BRZ with the GTIII-RS kit installed, owners can expect significant improvements over the stock 228 horsepower output:

• Target output: 340-370+ horsepower (depending on tune and supporting mods)
• Boost pressure: Approximately 0.6-0.8 kg/cm² (8.5-11.4 psi) on the base calibration
• Torque gains: Substantial increases throughout the midrange, transforming the BRZ's power delivery

These figures represent a 50-60% increase over stock—a transformative improvement that fundamentally changes the car's character. Where the naturally aspirated FA24 requires high RPM to access its power, the turbocharged setup delivers strong thrust from the midrange, making the BRZ feel effortlessly quick in real-world driving situations.

Exhaust Manifold & Turbine Housing

The HKS cast exhaust manifold is a critical component that routes exhaust gases from the FA24's cylinders to the turbocharger. Key features include:

• Cast construction — Durable and resistant to cracking under thermal cycling
• Optimized runner design — Promotes efficient exhaust pulse energy transfer to the turbine
• Integrated wastegate flange — Allows for precise boost control
• Proper heat management — Designed to withstand sustained high-temperature operation

The manifold positions the turbocharger optimally within the engine bay, ensuring adequate clearance while minimizing the distance exhaust gases must travel—reducing lag and improving response.

Front-Mount Intercooler System

Compressed air from the turbocharger is hot—and hot air is less dense, reducing power potential and increasing the risk of detonation. The HKS kit addresses this with a front-mount intercooler (FMIC) system designed specifically for the BRZ chassis.

The intercooler system includes:

• Bar-and-plate core — Efficient heat exchanger design that cools compressed air before it enters the engine
• Properly sized end tanks — Ensure smooth airflow distribution across the core
• Mandrel-bent aluminum piping — Smooth internal surfaces reduce turbulence and pressure drop
• Silicone couplers and clamps — High-quality connections that resist boost leaks and heat degradation

By maintaining low intake air temperatures, the intercooler allows for more aggressive tuning, consistent power output during spirited driving, and improved reliability under sustained load—whether on a mountain road or during track sessions.

Oil & Coolant Management

Turbochargers spin at extremely high speeds and operate under intense heat. Proper lubrication and cooling are essential for longevity. The GTIII-RS kit includes a complete oil and coolant line package:

• Braided stainless steel oil feed line — Delivers clean, pressurized oil to the turbo's ball-bearing cartridge
• Oil return line — Gravity-drains oil back to the engine's oil pan
• Coolant feed and return lines — Circulates engine coolant through the turbo's center section, preventing heat soak during shutdown and extending bearing life

This water-cooled, oil-lubricated design is critical for turbo longevity. Even after shutting down the engine, residual coolant circulation helps prevent oil from coking inside the turbo—a common failure point on turbocharged vehicles that are shut down immediately after hard driving.

Blow-Off Valve

The included blow-off valve (BOV) serves an important function: when you lift off the throttle under boost, the BOV vents pressurized air from the intake tract, preventing compressor surge that can damage the turbocharger over time. The HKS BOV is tuned to release at the appropriate threshold, providing that satisfying "whoosh" while protecting your investment.

Component Quality & Integration

What makes the GTIII-RS kit stand out from budget turbo setups is the quality of every component and how well they integrate together. HKS engineers designed each piece to work as part of a complete system:

This attention to detail and system-level engineering is what you're paying for with the HKS name—and it's what ensures your turbocharged BRZ performs reliably for years to come.

Installation, Tuning & Supporting Modifications

While the HKS GTIII-RS kit is designed as a bolt-on solution, installing a turbo system is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning, proper supporting modifications, and professional tuning. Understanding these requirements upfront will ensure your build goes smoothly and delivers reliable performance.

Installation Overview

The GTIII-RS kit is engineered for installation without cutting, welding, or permanent modification to your BRZ. However, "bolt-on" doesn't mean "simple." This is an advanced modification that typically requires:

• Time: 12-20+ hours depending on experience level and shop workflow
• Skill level: Advanced—recommended for experienced mechanics or professional installation
• Workspace: Full lift access, proper tools, and a clean environment
• Documentation: Detailed instructions provided by HKS for step-by-step guidance

The installation process involves removing the factory exhaust manifold and intake system, mounting the turbocharger and exhaust manifold assembly, routing intercooler piping through the engine bay, connecting oil and coolant lines, and installing the blow-off valve. Each step must be performed carefully to ensure proper fitment and leak-free operation.

Tuning: The Most Critical Step

Installing the hardware is only half the equation. Without proper tuning, your turbocharged BRZ will not run correctly—and attempting to drive on the stock ECU calibration with a turbo installed risks severe engine damage. This cannot be overstated: professional tuning is mandatory.

Tuning a turbocharged FA24 requires:

• ECU management solution — A tuning platform capable of adjusting fuel, ignition timing, boost control, and other critical parameters
• Experienced tuner — Someone with specific knowledge of the FA24 platform and forced induction calibration
• Dyno time — Proper load-based tuning on a chassis dynamometer to dial in air/fuel ratios and ignition timing under boost
• Datalogging and refinement — Real-world driving logs to verify the tune performs safely across all conditions

Tuning Platform Options

For the 2022+ BRZ, several ECU tuning solutions are available that support forced induction calibrations:

• EcuTek — Popular choice for FA24 tuning with robust forced induction support and experienced tuner network
• Open source options — Available for experienced tuners comfortable with open-source ECU solutions

Your tuner will adjust parameters including:

• Boost target tables and wastegate duty cycles
• Fuel injector scaling and air/fuel ratio targets
• Ignition timing maps (critical for preventing detonation under boost)
• Rev limiter and safety parameters
• AVCS (variable valve timing) optimization for boosted operation

Supporting Modifications

While the GTIII-RS kit is designed to work on an otherwise stock BRZ at moderate boost levels, certain supporting modifications are strongly recommended—or required—depending on your power goals.

Required for Safe Operation

Strongly Recommended

• Oil cooler — Turbocharged engines generate more heat; an oil cooler helps maintain optimal oil temperatures during aggressive driving or track use
• Catch can system — Increased crankcase pressure under boost means more blow-by; a catch can prevents oil vapor from contaminating the intake tract
• Upgraded fuel system — For higher power targets (400+ WHP), larger injectors and fuel pump upgrades may be necessary
• Exhaust upgrade — A less restrictive cat-back or turbo-back exhaust helps the turbo exhale, improving spool and top-end power

Recommended for Track Use

• Upgraded brake pads and fluid — More power means higher speeds and increased braking demands
• Performance tires — Put that power to the ground effectively
• Differential upgrade — Consider a limited-slip differential upgrade for better traction out of corners

Fuel Quality Considerations

Turbocharged engines are more sensitive to fuel quality than naturally aspirated setups. The increased cylinder pressures under boost make the engine more prone to detonation (knock), which can cause catastrophic damage. For your turbocharged BRZ:

• Minimum: 91 octane premium fuel
• Recommended: 93 octane where available
• Aggressive tunes: E85 or flex-fuel capability for maximum power and knock resistance

Your tuner will calibrate the ECU for the fuel grade you plan to run consistently. If you switch between fuel grades, a flex-fuel sensor and tune can automatically adjust parameters—but this requires additional hardware and calibration.

Maintenance Considerations

A turbocharged BRZ requires more attentive maintenance than a stock vehicle:

• Oil changes: More frequent intervals (every 3,000-4,000 miles) with high-quality synthetic oil
• Spark plugs: Upgraded, properly gapped plugs changed at shorter intervals
• Boost leak checks: Periodically inspect intercooler piping and couplers for leaks
• Turbo inspection: Listen for unusual sounds and check for shaft play during maintenance
• Coolant system: Ensure coolant lines to the turbo remain in good condition

Final Thoughts

The HKS GTIII-RS turbo kit represents the pinnacle of forced induction upgrades for the 2022+ Subaru BRZ. By adding a properly engineered turbo system to the FA24's already capable foundation, you're transforming a momentum-based sports car into a genuinely fast machine—one capable of 340-370+ horsepower while retaining the BRZ's renowned balance and driving engagement.

What makes the HKS kit stand out is its comprehensive, systems-level approach. Rather than piecing together components from multiple sources and hoping they work together, you're getting a complete package designed by engineers who understand both the FA24 platform and the demands of forced induction. The ball-bearing GTIII-RS turbocharger, cast exhaust manifold, properly sized intercooler system, and complete oil and coolant line package all work in harmony to deliver reliable, repeatable performance.

That said, this is not a modification to take lightly. Success with a turbo build requires:

• Proper installation — Whether DIY or professional, attention to detail is critical
• Professional tuning — Non-negotiable for safe, reliable operation
• Supporting modifications — At minimum, an upgraded clutch and high-quality fuel
• Ongoing maintenance — More frequent oil changes and attentive care
• Realistic expectations — Understand the trade-offs including warranty implications

For enthusiasts who've always loved the BRZ's chassis dynamics but wished for more power, the GTIII-RS kit delivers exactly that—without fundamentally changing what makes the car special. You still get the lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, manual transmission experience that defines the BRZ. You just get a lot more thrust to go with it.

Ready to transform your 2022+ BRZ into the turbocharged sports car it was always meant to be? Browse our selection of BRZ turbo kits or contact our team with questions about building your perfect setup. Whether you're chasing lap times, canyon carving, or simply want more smiles per mile, the HKS GTIII-RS turbo kit opens up a whole new world of performance for your Subaru BRZ.