The Subaru BRZ is one of the most beloved sports cars on the market, thanks to its lightweight, rear-wheel-drive platform, agile handling, and affordable price. But for some enthusiasts, the BRZ is not enough. They want more performance, more grip, and more excitement. They want a BRZ that can challenge the best sports cars in the world on the track. They want a BRZ that is tuned by STI, Subaru's legendary performance division.
Well, those enthusiasts are in luck because Subaru has just unveiled the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS, a special edition model that promises to deliver the ultimate handling experience. The tS stands for "tuned by STI," and it means that this BRZ has received a host of upgrades and enhancements from the same team that created the iconic WRX STI and the record-breaking Nürburgring lap time.
The Subaru BRZ tS is not a full-fledged STI model, though. It does not have a turbocharged engine or a massive rear wing. Instead, it focuses on improving the already excellent chassis and suspension of the BRZ, making it sharper, stiffer, and more responsive. The result is a BRZ that can carve corners like a scalpel while still retaining its balance and fun factor.
What's New for 2024?
The Subaru BRZ tS is based on the second-generation Subaru BRZ that debuted in 2020. It shares the same 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four engine that produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed manual transmission. It also has the same sleek and sporty exterior design, with LED headlights and taillights, a wide grille, and a dual exhaust system.
However, the tS adds some distinctive features that set it apart from the regular BRZ. The most noticeable are the 18-inch matte bronze alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, which provide more grip and traction than the standard tires. The wheels also reveal the Brembo brakes with four-piston front calipers and two-piston rear calipers, painted in gold to match the STI logo on the center caps.
The tS also has some subtle but effective aerodynamic enhancements, such as a front splitter, side skirts, and a rear diffuser, all finished in black with cherry blossom red accents. The most striking element is the carbon-fiber rear spoiler, which is manually adjustable and reduces lift at high speeds. The spoiler also features an integrated LED brake light and an STI logo.
The exterior color choices for the tS are limited to three options: Crystal White Pearl, Magnetite Gray Metallic, and Sapphire Blue Pearl. All of them come with black side mirrors and a black shark fin antenna.
The interior of the tS is also upgraded with some exclusive touches. The leather and Alcantara seats have red stitching and tS logos on the headrests. The leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter knob, and parking brake lever also have red stitching, door panels and a dashboard. The seatbelts are also red, adding some contrast to the black cabin.
The instrument cluster has a 7-inch digital display that shows various information such as speed, rpm, fuel level, water temperature, oil temperature, oil pressure, and g-force. It also has a dedicated screen for the EyeSight driver-assist system, which is standard on all manual transmission-equipped BRZs for 2024. The EyeSight system includes features such as pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, sway warning, and lead vehicle start alert.
The center console has an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It also has a six-speaker sound system with HD radio and SiriusXM satellite radio. Other features include:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control.
- Keyless access with push-button start.
- Heated front seats.
- A rearview camera.
How Does It Drive?
The main attraction of the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is its driving dynamics. Subaru claims that this is the best-handling BRZ ever made, thanks to the extensive tuning by STI. The suspension system has been upgraded with new Hitachi dampers specially designed for the tS. They are stiffer than the standard dampers and offer better damping control and feedback.
The suspension also has new coil springs that lower the ride height by 0.4 inches (10 mm), reducing the center of gravity and improving stability. The front suspension has new pillow ball joints that increase rigidity and steering response. The rear suspension has new subframe bushings that reduce unwanted movement and enhance grip.
The chassis has also been reinforced with new braces and mounts that increase stiffness and reduce flexing. The front cross member has a new V-shaped brace that connects to the front strut towers, enhancing the steering feel and precision. The rear cross member has a new draw stiffener that connects to the rear suspension mounts, improving the rear-end stability and control.
All these modifications result in a BRZ that is more agile, responsive, and confident on the road. The tS feels like an extension of the driver's body, reacting instantly to every input and feedback. The steering is razor-sharp and accurate, with a quick ratio of 13.5:1. The brakes are powerful and progressive, with a firm pedal feel and excellent modulation.
The tS also has a limited-slip differential that distributes torque between the rear wheels according to the driving conditions, enhancing traction and cornering performance. The tS also has three driving modes that adjust the throttle response, stability control, and torque vectoring: Normal, Sport, and Track. The Track mode allows more slip angle and drift angle for the rear wheels, enabling the driver to enjoy some sideways action.
The engine of the tS is the same as the regular BRZ, but it still delivers enough power and torque for a fun drive. The 2.4-liter flat-four has a smooth and linear power delivery, with a satisfying growl and burble from the exhaust. The six-speed manual transmission has a short and precise shifter with well-spaced gear ratios that match the engine's characteristics.
The tS can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6 seconds and reach a top speed of 143 mph. It is not the fastest sports car in its class, but it is not meant to be. The tS is more about handling than speed, more about finesse than brute force. It is a car that rewards the driver with its sublime balance and poise, engaging feedback and communication, and pure handling delight.
How Much Does It Cost?
The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is a limited edition model that will only be available in 500 units for the US market. It will go on sale in early 2024, with pricing to be announced closer to the launch date. However, we expect it to cost around $35,000, which is about $5,000 more than the BRZ Limited with the Performance Package.
That may seem like a steep premium for some cosmetic and mechanical upgrades, but it is worth it for those who appreciate the fine art of handling. The tS offers a level of performance and refinement that is rare in this segment, showcasing STI's expertise and passion.
The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is not for everyone. It is not a car that will impress you with its speed or power. It is not a car that will pamper you with its luxury or technology. It is not a car that will make you stand out with its flashy looks or loud noises.
But it is a car that will make you smile with its handling. It is a car that will challenge you with its dynamics. It is a car that will connect you with its feedback. It is a car that will reward you with its balance.
It is a car that is tuned by STI.
And that makes it special.
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