2024 Subaru BRZ tS – TDP Review

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS represents a performance-focused evolution of the beloved compact coupe, designed to offer enthusiasts a more refined driving experience straight from the factory. Building on the base model’s strengths, the tS—short for “tuned by STI”—introduces a range of enhancements aimed at improving handling and braking without altering the power output.

Key among these upgrades are the STI-tuned dampers, which provide a more controlled and responsive ride, and high-performance Brembo brakes, featuring four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers. These components ensure better stopping power and improved performance under demanding conditions.

On the aesthetic front, the BRZ tS stands out with subtle yet striking exterior tweaks, including unique badging and a distinctive red-and-black interior. These visual enhancements not only differentiate the tS from its siblings but also contribute to a sportier, more aggressive look.

Despite these significant mechanical and cosmetic upgrades, the 2024 BRZ tS retains the core characteristics that have made the BRZ a favorite among driving enthusiasts: a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive chassis, a low center of gravity, and an engaging, driver-focused experience. While the tS commands a premium price over the base and S models, it offers a compelling package for those seeking a ready-to-drive performance car without the need for aftermarket modifications.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Meaningful Mechanical Upgrades: The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS benefits from significant enhancements such as STI-tuned dampers and high-performance Brembo brakes. These upgrades contribute to better handling, improved braking performance, and an overall more engaging driving experience.
• Usable Daily Driver: Despite its performance-oriented modifications, the BRZ tS remains practical for everyday use. It retains the comfortable ride quality and features that make it suitable for daily commuting and long-distance drives.
• Active Safety for Manual Models: A notable addition for 2024 is the inclusion of Subaru’s EyeSight active safety suite in manual models. This brings features like autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist, enhancing safety without sacrificing the manual driving experience.

Cons

• Loses the Spare Wheel: One trade-off with the BRZ tS is the loss of the spare wheel, replaced by a tyre repair kit. While this change helps to save weight and improve practicality, it can be a disadvantage in the event of a flat tyre.
• Extra Focus Doesn’t Come Cheap: The BRZ tS commands a premium price compared to the base and S models. The additional $3600 over the BRZ S and $6900 over the base model may be hard to justify for some buyers, especially considering the lack of a power boost.
• No Additional Power: While the BRZ tS includes numerous handling and braking improvements, it does not feature any increase in engine power. The 2.4-litre naturally aspirated Boxer engine remains unchanged, which might disappoint those hoping for a performance boost to match the upgraded chassis.

These pros and cons highlight the key strengths and weaknesses of the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS, helping potential buyers understand what makes this model unique and whether it fits their needs and expectations.

Pricing and Value

Cost Breakdown

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS comes with a higher price tag compared to its base and S counterparts. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the pricing:

• 2024 Subaru BRZ manual: $43,790 (+$3500)
• 2024 Subaru BRZ auto: $44,790 (+$700)
• 2024 Subaru BRZ S manual: $45,090 (+$3500)
• 2024 Subaru BRZ S auto: $46,090 (+$700)
• 2024 Subaru BRZ tS manual: $48,690 (NEW)
• 2024 Subaru BRZ tS auto: $49,690 (NEW)

All prices are exclusive of on-road costs. The BRZ tS manual is priced at $48,690, which is $3600 more than the BRZ S manual and $6900 more than the base model manual.

Comparison to Other Trims and Models

While the base and S models offer great value with their engaging driving dynamics and lower price points, the BRZ tS stands out with its performance-focused enhancements. The additional features and upgrades in the tS, such as STI-tuned dampers and Brembo brakes, justify the price increase for those who prioritize performance and handling improvements.

However, for buyers who are content with the already excellent handling of the standard BRZ and are looking to save money, the base or S models might be more appealing options.

Value for Money Assessment

The BRZ tS provides meaningful upgrades that enhance the driving experience, making it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts who seek a ready-to-drive performance car. The inclusion of advanced safety features in manual models adds to its appeal, ensuring that drivers don’t have to compromise on safety for the sake of a manual transmission.

However, for those who are willing to invest time and effort in aftermarket modifications, the base BRZ offers a more cost-effective platform to build a personalized performance car. In summary, the BRZ tS is a compelling choice for buyers looking for a well-rounded, factory-tuned performance car that balances daily usability with enhanced driving dynamics.

Mechanical Upgrades

STI-Tuned Dampers

One of the standout features of the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is its STI-tuned dampers. These dampers have been specifically calibrated by Subaru’s performance division, Subaru Tecnica International (STI), to provide enhanced control and stability. The result is a more composed ride, particularly during aggressive cornering and spirited driving. This upgrade ensures that the BRZ tS remains planted and responsive, offering a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing daily comfort.

Brembo Brakes

The BRZ tS is equipped with high-performance Brembo brakes, featuring four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers. These brakes offer significantly improved stopping power compared to the standard brakes found on the base and S models. The Brembo system includes uprated pads and rotors, which are designed to handle the heat generated during high-speed driving and track use. This upgrade provides drivers with greater confidence and control, especially during demanding driving conditions.

Impact on Driving Dynamics

The combination of STI-tuned dampers and Brembo brakes transforms the BRZ tS into a more capable and confidence-inspiring sports car. The enhanced suspension setup provides better feedback and more precise handling, allowing drivers to exploit the car’s rear-wheel-drive layout to its fullest potential. The improved braking system ensures that the car can be slowed down effectively and consistently, even during intense driving sessions.

No Power Increase

Despite the significant mechanical upgrades, the 2024 BRZ tS retains the same 2.4-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine as the base and S models. This engine produces 174 kW and 250 Nm of torque, delivered through either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. While the lack of additional power might be a disappointment to some enthusiasts, the BRZ tS focuses on enhancing the overall driving experience through improved handling and braking rather than outright horsepower.

The mechanical upgrades in the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS elevate its performance capabilities, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking a factory-tuned sports car with refined handling and braking characteristics.

Exterior and Interior Enhancements

Exterior Tweaks

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS features several subtle yet distinctive exterior modifications that set it apart from the base and S models. These include:

• Unique Badging: The tS variant sports exclusive STI and tS badges, indicating its performance pedigree.
• Grey 18-inch Alloy Wheels: These wheels not only enhance the car’s aesthetics but also contribute to its improved handling dynamics.
• Gold Brake Calipers: The Brembo brake calipers are finished in a striking gold color, adding a touch of visual flair and signaling the car’s upgraded braking capabilities.
• Special Edition Paint Options: The BRZ tS may offer exclusive color options to further distinguish it from other models in the lineup.

These exterior enhancements give the BRZ tS a sportier, more aggressive appearance that complements its performance upgrades.

Interior Details

Inside, the BRZ tS receives several notable enhancements that elevate the cabin’s ambiance and underscore its sporty nature:

• Red-and-Black Interior: The interior features a special red-and-black color scheme, with red accents on the seats, door panels, and dashboard trim. This color combination adds a sense of excitement and sportiness to the cabin.
• Bordeaux Interior Highlights: Additional bordeaux-colored highlights are strategically placed to enhance the upscale feel of the interior.
• Glossy Red Start Button: A unique, glossy red start button adds a touch of flair and serves as a constant reminder of the car’s performance-oriented nature.
• Premium Materials: The BRZ tS uses high-quality materials throughout the cabin, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shifter, ensuring that all touchpoints feel luxurious.

Functional Improvements

While the visual and material upgrades enhance the aesthetic appeal of the BRZ tS, several functional improvements also contribute to a better driving experience:

• Enhanced Seating: The seats in the BRZ tS provide excellent support and comfort, making long drives more enjoyable. Although they are not as aggressively bolstered as dedicated racing seats, they strike a good balance between daily comfort and sporty support.
• Driver-Focused Layout: The interior layout remains driver-centric, with a well-designed cockpit that places all controls within easy reach. The digital instrument cluster and 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system are user-friendly and offer essential information and connectivity features.

Performance and Handling

Driving Experience with the New Upgrades

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS takes the already impressive driving dynamics of the BRZ and elevates them with targeted performance upgrades. The STI-tuned dampers provide enhanced control and stability, making the car feel more planted and responsive, especially during spirited driving. The Brembo brakes deliver exceptional stopping power, allowing for more confident braking and shorter stopping distances. These upgrades transform the driving experience, making the BRZ tS a more capable and engaging car on both the road and the track.

Manual vs. Automatic Transmission Performance

The BRZ tS is available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. While the automatic transmission has been improved in the second-generation BRZ, the manual transmission remains the preferred choice for driving enthusiasts. The manual gearbox offers a more engaging and interactive driving experience, with precise shifts and well-spaced pedals for rev-matching. The automatic transmission, while competent, does not provide the same level of driver involvement and can feel less responsive compared to the manual.

Real-World Driving Impressions

In real-world driving scenarios, the 2024 BRZ tS impresses with its balance and agility. The car’s low center of gravity and rear-wheel-drive layout contribute to its sharp handling and precise steering. The STI-tuned suspension ensures that the car remains composed over various road surfaces, soaking up bumps and imperfections without compromising ride quality. On twisty roads, the BRZ tS feels nimble and eager, with the upgraded brakes providing confidence-inspiring stopping power.

The naturally aspirated 2.4-liter Boxer engine delivers a linear power band, with sufficient torque available throughout the rev range. While the lack of additional power might be a letdown for some, the engine’s responsiveness and smooth delivery make it enjoyable to push to the redline. The BRZ tS excels in delivering a pure and unfiltered driving experience, with a direct connection between the driver and the car.

Safety and Technology

New Active Safety Features

One of the most significant updates for the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is the inclusion of Subaru’s EyeSight active safety suite in manual models, a feature previously limited to automatic variants. This system brings a range of advanced safety technologies that enhance the car’s safety profile:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): This system helps prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes if it detects an imminent crash.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: This feature maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front, adjusting speed as necessary to match traffic flow.
• Lane-Keeping Assist: This technology helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing gentle steering inputs if it detects the car drifting out of its lane.
• High-Beam Assist: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles, improving nighttime visibility without blinding other drivers.

These additions make the BRZ tS not only a more exciting car to drive but also a safer one, particularly in day-to-day driving situations.

Infotainment System Review

The 2024 BRZ tS features an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that provides a solid, if not groundbreaking, user experience. Key features of the system include:

• Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: These integrations allow seamless connectivity with smartphones, enabling access to apps, navigation, and media directly from the car’s display.
• DAB+ Digital Radio: Offers a variety of radio stations with improved sound quality compared to traditional FM/AM radio.
• Satellite Navigation: Provides reliable and easy-to-use navigation, helping drivers find their way without relying on their phones.

The infotainment interface is user-friendly, with straightforward menus and responsive touch controls. While it may not be the most advanced system on the market, it gets the job done efficiently and effectively.

Comparison with Competitors

When compared to other sports coupes in its class, the Subaru BRZ tS holds its own in terms of safety and technology. While some competitors may offer more advanced infotainment systems or additional high-tech features, the BRZ tS strikes a good balance between essential functionality and user-friendliness. Its active safety features are particularly noteworthy, bringing the manual model in line with modern safety standards and enhancing its appeal as a daily driver.

The inclusion of Subaru’s EyeSight technology sets the BRZ tS apart from many competitors, particularly those that do not offer advanced safety features on manual transmission models. This makes the BRZ tS an attractive option for enthusiasts who want a performance car that doesn’t compromise on safety.

Practicality and Usability

Daily Driving Comfort

Despite its performance-oriented upgrades, the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS maintains the practicality needed for daily use. The STI-tuned dampers provide a comfortable ride quality, absorbing road imperfections well and making the car suitable for commuting and longer trips. The cabin remains quiet enough for everyday driving, although some road noise can be expected given the car’s sporty nature.

Storage and Seating Capacity

The BRZ tS retains the same interior layout as the standard BRZ, which means:

• Front Seats: The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom for most drivers and passengers. The seats are well-bolstered, providing good support during spirited driving.
• Rear Seats: The rear seats are primarily suited for occasional use or additional storage space. They offer limited headroom and legroom, making them best suited for short trips or carrying smaller passengers.
• Folding Rear Seats: The rear seats can be folded down to expand the trunk space, making the BRZ tS more practical for carrying larger items or additional luggage.

Suitability for Long Trips

For longer journeys, the BRZ tS offers several features that enhance comfort and convenience:

• Dual-Zone Climate Control: Allows the driver and front passenger to set individual temperature preferences, ensuring a comfortable cabin environment.
• Generous Storage Compartments: The car includes various storage compartments, such as door pockets and a centrally-hinged middle armrest with cupholders, to keep personal items and drinks within easy reach.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: The digital dashboard provides clear and accessible information, including speed, revs, and a customizable trip computer. Data enthusiasts will appreciate the live power and torque traces, as well as the ability to monitor oil temperature.

Practicality in Real-World Use

While the BRZ tS is not a large car, it makes efficient use of its space:

• Boot Space: The trunk offers 201 liters of space, which is sufficient for most daily needs and short trips. The absence of a spare wheel improves the usability of the trunk, but drivers must rely on a tyre repair kit in the event of a flat tire.
• Usability in Urban and Suburban Settings: The compact size of the BRZ tS makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments, fitting into tight parking spaces and navigating through traffic with ease.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

Fuel Efficiency

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is equipped with a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine, which provides a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The official fuel economy figures for the BRZ tS are:

• Claimed Fuel Economy: 9.5 L/100km
• Observed Fuel Economy: 10.5 L/100km (mixed driving)

While these figures indicate that the BRZ tS is not the most fuel-efficient sports car on the market, they are reasonable given the car’s performance capabilities. The relatively high fuel consumption is a trade-off for the engaging driving experience provided by the naturally aspirated engine and the car’s sporty dynamics.

Maintenance Costs

Subaru offers a comprehensive five-year, capped-price servicing program for the BRZ tS, which helps owners manage maintenance costs predictably. The service intervals are set at 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. The capped-price servicing costs for the BRZ tS are as follows:

• First Service: $364.03
• Second Service: $586.06
• Third Service: $459.43
• Fourth Service: $739.82 (manual) / $824.07 (automatic)
• Fifth Service: $379.14

These costs are competitive within the sports car segment and provide peace of mind for owners, knowing that their maintenance expenses will be predictable and manageable.

Warranty and Service Packages

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. This comprehensive warranty coverage underscores Subaru’s confidence in the reliability and durability of their vehicles. Additionally, Subaru’s five-year capped-price servicing program ensures that owners can maintain their cars without unexpected costs.

Fuel Requirement

To achieve optimal performance and protect the engine, the BRZ tS requires premium 98 RON unleaded fuel. While this is standard for many performance-oriented vehicles, it does mean higher fuel costs compared to cars that can run on regular unleaded fuel.

Overall Running Costs

When considering the running costs of the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS, prospective owners should factor in the following:

• Fuel Costs: Given the car’s fuel consumption and the requirement for premium fuel, running costs will be higher than average.
• Maintenance Costs: The capped-price servicing program helps manage maintenance expenses effectively.
• Warranty Coverage: The five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty provides added peace of mind and reduces the financial risk associated with potential repairs.

TDP’s Take on the Subaru BRZ tS

The tS Package: A Worthwhile Upgrade?

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is a thoughtfully upgraded version of the already impressive BRZ. The enhancements made by Subaru Tecnica International (STI) focus on improving handling and braking, two critical aspects of driving performance. The STI-tuned dampers and Brembo brakes elevate the car’s dynamics, making it more capable and confidence-inspiring on both the road and the track. These upgrades are well-targeted, providing meaningful improvements without fundamentally changing the character of the car.

Performance without Power Increase

While some enthusiasts might lament the lack of additional power, the existing 2.4-liter Boxer engine delivers a balanced and responsive driving experience. The emphasis on handling and braking over raw power ensures that the BRZ tS remains an engaging car to drive, allowing drivers to fully exploit its capabilities without being overwhelmed. This focus on chassis and braking performance aligns with the car’s ethos as an accessible sports car that rewards skillful driving.

Daily Usability

The BRZ tS strikes a commendable balance between performance and practicality. The comfort-oriented suspension tuning and thoughtful interior design make it a viable option for daily driving, while the performance upgrades ensure it remains exciting on weekends or track days. The addition of Subaru’s EyeSight active safety suite to manual models is a significant enhancement, bringing modern safety technology to a traditionally more analog driving experience.

Value Proposition

At a premium of $3600 over the BRZ S and $6900 over the base model, the BRZ tS offers a compelling package for enthusiasts seeking a performance-ready car straight from the factory. The price difference is justified by the quality and effectiveness of the STI upgrades, the inclusion of advanced safety features, and the car’s overall enhanced driving dynamics.

Competitors and Market Position

In a competitive market segment, the BRZ tS holds its own against rivals like the Toyota GR86, Mazda MX-5, and Ford Mustang. Each of these competitors offers unique strengths, but the BRZ tS distinguishes itself with its balanced performance, driver engagement, and Subaru’s reputation for reliability. The comprehensive warranty and capped-price servicing program further enhance its appeal, making it a strong contender for those seeking a well-rounded sports coupe.

Final Thoughts

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS stands as the flagship of the BRZ lineup, delivering a harmonious blend of performance, practicality, and modern safety features. The upgrades have been thoughtfully selected to enhance the driving experience while preserving the car’s essential characteristics. Although it may not be the ideal choice for those seeking maximum power through aftermarket modifications, it is a superb option for enthusiasts desiring a factory-tuned sports car ready for action. For drivers who prioritize handling, braking, and overall driving engagement, the BRZ tS is a compelling and well-executed enhancement.

That said, while the tS is the most refined BRZ available, it might not be the best fit for everyone.

Its improvements are well-focused but may not justify the additional cost for the average buyer. For those looking to transform their car into a track-focused machine, the aftermarket offers greater potential for customization and performance enhancements.

Want more? Click here for Audi Q8 55 e-tron Launch Edition – TDP Review – (techdriveplay.com)