Just as Toyota has given its second generation GR86 a Performance Package, Subaru also got its STI team to develop a more performance-focused BRZ which carries a ‘tS’ designation. The new version made its global debut in California recently and is said to offers the best performance and handling capability in a BRZ ever.
The BRZ tS comes equipped with STI-tuned front and rear Hitachi dampers, enhancing its handling while fully exploiting the car’s light weight and ultra-low centre of gravity. Subaru says that drivers will experience greater flexibility and better control and stability with this upgraded spec.
Stopping power is also improved with a high-performance Brembo braking system as standard. This comes with gold-painted 4-piston front calipers, gold-painted 2-piston rear calipers and larger pads and rotors for better fade resistance and pedal feel.
The BRZ tS also has 18-inch wheels mounted with 215/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres which, besides giving superior grip, also provide quicker turn-in.
Externally, the BRZ tS can only be identified by tS badges on the front grille and on the rear end. The door mirrors and roof-mounted shark fin antenna are finished in a Crystal Black Silica finish.
Inside, the BRZ tS cabin is black-themed with tS-only contrasting blue stitching on the bolsters of the black front seats. The standard performance-design front seats with height-adjustable head restraints feature a blue leather accent down the middle. BRIN NAUB nubuck-like material enhances the instrument panel visor and door trim.
The iconic STI logo is displayed on the red starter button and customizable 7-inch digital instrument cluster, also updated with tS-exclusive red accents.
For the first time, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is now standard on a Subaru model equipped with a manual transmission. Subaru’s EyeSight technology was introduced as far back as 2008 and was among the earliest such systems to use a camera to detect other road-users ahead.
Imagery from the camera was analysed and automatic emergency braking would be activated if necessary to prevent an accident. Since then, other carmakers have also installed cameras as part of their active safety systems.
The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology in the BRZ now includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking System, Lane Departure and Sway Warning and Lead Vehicle Start Alert.
Powertrain specs are unchanged and the BRZ tS has the well proven 2.4-litre (naturally aspirated) 228 bhp Boxer engine paired with a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission. Standard for the sportscar is a comprehensive list of standard features including a TORSEN limited-slip differential, and Vehicle Stability Control with Track Mode.
