Subaru’s BRZ stands out as a rarity in today’s automotive landscape, a model that’s survived against the odds. This compact sports car keeps things uncomplicated with its rear-wheel-drive layout, affordable price tag, and manual transmission option. Equipped with a naturally aspirated engine, the BRZ embraces a purist’s approach to driving, while Subaru’s recent enhancements aim to refine its appeal even more.
Subaru keeps the BRZ competitive by introducing the tS package, a trim crafted by Subaru Tecnica International (STI). This version adds a firmer set of Brembo brakes, high-grip performance tires, and subtle suspension adjustments for a sharper feel. But despite wearing STI’s performance badge, the BRZ tS doesn’t come with the turbocharged engine that fans have been hoping for, keeping the power figures unchanged.
DESIGN
At first glance, the BRZ tS might appear as Subaru’s attempt to satisfy fans with a model that flirts with STI-level performance, but falls just shy of their expectations. It may seem like the automaker simply added a few tweaks and slapped on a new badge, but there’s more substance to the tS than this initial impression would lead you to believe.
From the outside, the updates on the tS are subtle, with only a few cosmetic changes distinguishing it from the standard BRZ. Black-painted wheels, matching the original design, black side mirrors, and “tS” badges add a touch of sportiness. While it won’t turn heads in a crowd of BRZ owners, the clean, straightforward aesthetic is a testament to the car’s timeless appeal.
Inside, the BRZ tS keeps things simple, offering a utilitarian interior with few frills. While it has all the necessary features, the cabin’s materials lean toward scratchy plastics, and the climate controls bring to mind Subaru’s older designs. This simplicity, however, serves the car’s character well, providing a refreshing contrast to the tech-heavy cabins in most modern cars and keeping the focus on the driving experience.
Comfort and luxury aren’t the main priorities of the BRZ tS; it’s all about driving engagement. The driver-focused cabin features supportive seats and a near-perfect steering wheel. Visibility is excellent thanks to tall windows, although at speeds above 40 mph, road noise and minor creaks become noticeable. This raw, uncomplicated design enhances the BRZ tS’s connected, no-nonsense driving feel on the road.
PERFORMANCE
The 228-hp BRZ tS might not seem like a powerhouse at first, but in this lightweight sports car—tipping the scales at just 2,846 pounds—it feels perfectly balanced. Powered by a 2.4-liter boxer-four engine with a naturally aspirated character, it delivers an engaging driving experience. The six-speed manual transmission enhances the fun with precise, satisfying shifts, although the clutch requires a little time to get used to for smooth operation.
Known for its agility, the BRZ tS lives up to its reputation with extra performance nuances. With a balanced chassis and excellent steering feel, it offers a driving experience that’s more precise than playful. Thanks to Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, the tS sacrifices a bit of its drift-happy nature, opting instead for enhanced grip and cornering precision. This setup elevates the car’s handling, making it a sharp and responsive track-ready machine.
The added grip elevates the thrill of driving the BRZ tS. It tackles corners with unwavering stability, giving the driver the confidence to push through sharp turns without hesitation. While it may not have the same tail-happy character as the base BRZ, the tS delivers a more composed and exhilarating experience. The car responds to input with laser-like precision, making each corner feel like a new adventure.
One of the key highlights of the tS is its advanced suspension system. Equipped with Hitachi dampers, specifically tuned for the tS, the suspension strikes an excellent balance between handling and comfort. Despite the BRZ’s raw engine sound and gritty tones, the suspension absorbs road imperfections well, keeping the car stable while still offering engaging driving dynamics. This makes the BRZ tS a standout in its segment, delivering excellent value for the price.
Look through the dark alloy wheels, and you’ll spot the gold Brembo calipers, signaling the BRZ tS’s enhanced stopping power. With four-piston front and dual-piston rear brakes, the braking system provides exceptional performance. The low curb weight makes the brakes feel incredibly responsive, requiring a light touch to avoid abrupt stops. It’s a level of braking performance that complements the car’s handling, adding another layer of excitement to the driving experience.
The tS’s suspension is a clear upgrade over the standard BRZ, giving it an edge in handling. Though much of the car’s design remains similar to the base model, the Hitachi dampers make a noticeable difference in how the car responds to rougher terrain. It’s a car that proves you can have exceptional performance at an affordable price. While some trade-offs in refinement are expected, they’re easily overlooked in favor of such an engaging driving experience.
Inside, the BRZ tS sacrifices some refinement for the sake of performance. The cabin can feel a bit noisy, with the engine’s growl and drivetrain hum making their presence known. At highway speeds, the short sixth gear intensifies the drone. Even the smallest road debris makes its way into the cabin. Additionally, the handbrake lever feels unusually long and tall, which, though minor, stands out in an otherwise well-executed interior.
VERDICT
Over the course of a week-long test drive, the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS showed its unique blend of performance and value. Priced at $35,345 MSRP, with destination and delivery fees the total climbs to $36,465.
Competition
When considering the BRZ, it’s hard not to think of the Toyota 86, given how closely they resemble one another. A closer inspection of each trim level, however, reveals small but notable differences that could make one more appealing to potential buyers than the other.
For those after more horsepower, models like the Ford Mustang or Nissan Z provide more muscle, though they come with additional weight and steeper price tags. If a nimble driving experience is a priority, the Mazda Miata continues to offer that “slow-car-fast” thrill, though its convertible setup may not appeal to everyone.
For drivers who appreciate the BRZ’s dynamic handling but need more space, Subaru’s WRX presents an intriguing option. With a similar price point, the WRX delivers its own unique driving excitement, offering an alternative that still embraces Subaru’s performance-oriented reputation.
