If you are looking for an affordable sports car that can handle both the road and the track, consider the Subaru BRZ tS. This special edition model features several enhancements from Subaru's performance division, STI. The tS stands for "Tuned by STI," which means that this is not a full-blown STI model with a turbocharged engine and a huge wing. Instead, this is a refined version of the standard BRZ that focuses on improving its already excellent handling and braking capabilities. The tS also adds some cosmetic touches to make it stand out from the rest of the BRZ lineup.
In this ultimate guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS, including:
- What's new for 2024?
- How much does it cost?
- Is it worth it?
- How does it compare to other sports cars?
What's New for 2024?
The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is based on the second-generation BRZ that debuted in 2021. The new BRZ features a bigger and more powerful 2.4-liter flat-four engine that delivers 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 23 hp and 28 lb-ft over the previous generation. The new engine also has a higher redline of 7,000 rpm compared to 6,400 rpm before.
The new BRZ also has a stiffer and lighter body structure, a lower center of gravity, a wider track, and a revised suspension geometry. The result is a more agile and responsive sports car that can tackle corners with ease and precision.
The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS builds on these improvements by adding performance-oriented STI upgrades. The most noticeable change is the addition of Brembo brakes with four-piston calipers in the front and two-piston calipers in the rear, all painted in gold. The brakes are paired with exclusive 18-inch aluminum wheels in dark grey metallic, wrapped with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires.
The tS also gets a new suspension system with dampers supplied by Hitachi, tuned by STI to provide optimal balance and stability. The dampers are adjustable in Comfort, Sport, and Track. The tS also has stiffer coil springs, front and rear stabilizer bars, and pillow ball bushings for the rear suspension links.
The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS exterior also features some subtle but distinctive changes. The side mirror caps and the shark fin antenna are finished in gloss black, while the front grille has a tS badge. The rear spoiler is also unique to the tS model, featuring an integrated brake light and adjustable angle. The spoiler is designed to reduce lift and improve aerodynamics at high speeds.
The interior of the tS is mostly similar to the standard BRZ sports car but with some exclusive touches. The seats are upholstered in black leather and Alcantara, with red stitching and tS logos on the headrests. The steering wheel, shifter knob, door panels, dashboard, and center console also have red accents. The instrument cluster has a special tS welcome screen and a lap timer function.
The new Subaru BRZ tS sports car also comes with Subaru's EyeSight driver assistance system as standard, making it the first manual transmission-equipped BRZ to have this feature. EyeSight includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, sway warning, and lead vehicle start alert.
How Much Does It Cost?
The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is available in three colors: Crystal White Pearl, Magnetite Gray Metallic, and Sapphire Blue Pearl. The latter is exclusive to the tS model and pays homage to previous STI models' iconic WR Blue color.
The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS price has not been announced yet, but it is expected to be higher than the Limited trim level, which starts at $29,945. The previous generation BRZ tS had a limited production run of 500 units and was priced at $34,355, so we can expect something similar for the new model.
The new Subaru BRZ tS will go on sale in early 2024 as a special edition model with no production limits. It will compete with other affordable sports cars, such as the Toyota 86 (which shares its platform with the BRZ), the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Hyundai Veloster N, and the Ford Mustang EcoBoost.
Is It Worth It?
The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is a tempting proposition for anyone who loves driving and wants a more track-ready version of the BRZ. The tS offers improved braking, handling, stability, and some exclusive styling elements. It also retains the core attributes of the BRZ, such as its lightweight, rear-wheel-drive layout and its engaging manual transmission.
However, the tS is not a radical transformation of the BRZ. It does not have a significant increase in power or torque or a turbocharger or a supercharger. Some enthusiasts may still find the BRZ tS sports car needs more straight-line performance and acceleration. They may also prefer a more aggressive and distinctive look for their sports car.
Ultimately, the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is a matter of personal preference. It is a refined and enhanced version of the BRZ that appeals to those who value handling and balance over raw power and speed. It is also a rare and exclusive model showcasing STI's expertise and craftsmanship. The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is worth it for those who appreciate these qualities. For others, the standard BRZ may be enough.