Skip advert
Advertisement
News

Freshly tuned Subaru BRZ tS to carry STI badging, but no extra power

The limited edition Subaru BRZ won’t be the STI version fans were hoping for, and will only see the US market

Alongside a hot new limited edition Impreza exclusively for the US market – the new 306bhp WRX STI Type RASubaru has pulled the sheets from a freshly tuned BRZ coupe, which will also be limited to 500 units and go on sale in the United States early in 2018.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Subaru BRZ 2017 facelift review

It’s not the full-fat Subaru BRZ STI many fans have been hoping for. Instead of bringing more power to the mix, the BRZ tS – tS standing for ‘Tuned by STI – focuses on improving performance through suspension and aerodynamic tweaks. As such, the same 197bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder boxer engine sits under the bonnet.

Subaru says that the BRZ tS delivers a more controlled and stable driving experience thanks to its suspension revisions. At the front and rear, new dampers and coil springs are introduced, while new flexible V-struts are found in the engine compartment in a bid to introduce more balance. The chassis has been tweaked too with new draw stiffeners, in a bid to improve steering response.

Brembo brakes are housed behind a new set of 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels, shod in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 rubber.

In terms of exterior styling and aerodynamic revisions, it’s hard to miss the new large rear wing. It’s constructed from carbon-fibre and is manually adjustable. New aerodynamic appendages appear at the front and sides of the car too. New STI branded fog lights appear, alongside BRZ tS badging and a slightly different rear bumper.

In the cabin, Subaru has kitted out the BRZ tS with leather and Alcantara upholstery with new red contrast stitching. A new visor appears over the instrument cluster, and red seatbelts round off the changes. Prices for the US only BRZ tS will be revealed later this year.

Are you disappointed that this BRZ isn’t a full STi model? Tell us in the comments section...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Mazda, Toyota and Subaru join forces to develop new engines for hybrid cars
Toyota, Subaru and Mazda partnership

Mazda, Toyota and Subaru join forces to develop new engines for hybrid cars

The new engines will be compatible with fossil fuel alternatives like liquid hydrogen and synthetic fuel
News
30 May 2024
10 surprising things made by car companies, that aren't cars
Things made by car manufacturers - header

10 surprising things made by car companies, that aren't cars

The world’s biggest auto manufacturers have many strings to their bows...
Features
6 May 2024

Most Popular

New cars that plummet in value can make brilliant used buys
Opinion - Vauxhall Corsa-e

New cars that plummet in value can make brilliant used buys

Editor Paul Barker takes a closer look at our 2024 Used Car Awards
Opinion
20 Nov 2024
Best used cars to buy 2024
Best used cars 2024

Best used cars to buy 2024

From city cars to large SUVs, here’s our annual pick of the star performers that’ll save you thousands when you buy them used instead of new
Best cars & vans
22 Nov 2024
New Jaguar logos unveiled as big concept reveal moves closer
New Jaguar logo 1

New Jaguar logos unveiled as big concept reveal moves closer

Jaguar has revealed its new logos and styling details ahead of its transition into a luxury EV brand
News
19 Nov 2024