The Lexus FA20 is a 1,998 cc, flat‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2020. It features direct fuel injection, dual variable valve timing (Dual VVT-i), and a high compression ratio of 12.5:1, delivering responsive performance with improved thermal efficiency. The engine's low centre of gravity enhances vehicle handling dynamics for sportier driving character.
Fitted to the RC 200t, IS 200t, and GS 200t models, the FA20 was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of sporty acceleration, refinement, and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through direct injection and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing all units to meet Euro 6 standards.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to port injection absence, highlighted in Lexus Technical Service Bulletin LTB-0034-17. This condition can lead to misfires and reduced power under load. Lexus introduced revised piston ring designs in 2016 to mitigate oil consumption, and recommends periodic induction system cleaning using approved methods.
Production years 2012–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2020 models meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Lexus FA20 is a 1,998 cc flat-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sports sedans and coupes (2012-2020). It combines direct fuel injection with dual variable valve timing to deliver linear power delivery and high-revving responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances dynamic performance with everyday efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Flat-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 72.0 mm | |
| Power output | 177–184 kW (240–250 PS) | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2,000–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (D-4S) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2016); Euro 6 (2016–2020) | |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (dual camshafts) | |
| Oil type | Lexus Genuine Oil 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The D-4S direct injection provides strong throttle response but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. Lexus Genuine Oil 0W-20 is critical due to its low ash formulation minimizing deposit formation. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate intake valve coking. Periodic induction cleaning per Lexus SIB 15 02 03 is recommended to maintain peak performance and fuel economy.
Oil Specs: Requires Lexus Genuine Oil 0W-20 specification (Lexus SIB 15 02 03). Supersedes API SN and ACEA C2/C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2016 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). All 2016–2020 models meet Euro 6.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 184 kW output requires premium unleaded fuel (RON 98) as specified (Lexus TIS Doc. A31022).
Lexus Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31022, SIB 15 02 03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Lexus FA20 was used across Lexus's RC/IS/GS platforms with longitudinal mounting and licensed to Subaru for transverse applications in global markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the RC 200t and tuned exhaust routing in the IS 200t—and from 2016 the facelifted IS 200t adopted updated ECU calibration for enhanced torque delivery, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Subaru's FB20 units to leverage Lexus's D-4S direct injection technology. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right cylinder bank near the oil filter housing (Lexus TIS A31022). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for FA20 series). Pre-2016 models feature a black plastic intake manifold; post-2016 units use a revised design with integrated throttle body. Critical differentiation from Subaru FB20: FA20 uses Lexus-specific D-4S direct injection with high-pressure pump mounted on cylinder head; FB20 uses Toyota's D-4S variant with different injector spray pattern. Service parts require production date verification - timing chain kits for engines before 04/2015 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Lexus SIB 15 02 03).
The FA20's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on intake valves, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving. Lexus Technical Service Bulletin LTB-0034-17 confirms this condition causes misfires and reduced power under load, while VCA MOT statistics show increased emissions failures in city-driven examples. Extended idling and frequent short trips accelerate deposit formation, making induction cleaning and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Lexus technical bulletins (2012-2020) and UK VCA MOT failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LEXUS FA-20.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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