Subaru is finally offering an STI version of the BRZ. Well, not in the form you and I might have hoped. It’s actually a tS variant and it has just been announced as part of the MY2018 update in Australia.
The Subaru BRZ has been crying out for the proper performance treatment that STI could do, including a neat turbo engine swap. But it looks like Subaru isn’t willing to open up that chapter but it is interested in tempting us with the intermediate tS.
Joining the top of the range the tS features a number of STI components. The suspension is sportier and made by Sachs, while the brakes are beefed up with Brembo four-piston calipers on the front and twin-piston on the rear, painted in red.
Also helping in the handling department is a set of STI springs, a strut brace and lower chassis stiffener, as well as 18-inch STI forged aluminium wheels measuring 7.5 inches wide. These are wrapped in 215/40 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres.
Also unique to the tS is a bespoke front bumper bar and badge, black rear spoiler, side mirrors, and roof antenna, and a spruced up interior with red-highlighted Alcantara trimming. There’s also an STI steering wheel, gear shifter, and start button.
Aside from the intro of the tS variant, the MY2018 update also brings in Subaru’s latest 7.0-inch touch-screen infotainment touch-screen, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. It also offers smartphone-like usability and a crisp new look.
Speaking about the new model, Subaru Australia managing director, Colin Christie, said the addition of the tS will help maintain momentum for the popular sports coupe. Christie said:
“The combination of suspension, brake and cosmetic enhancements make it an appealing package for sports car fans looking for a bit more edge from their BRZ. Also, the significant improvements to infotainment right across the BRZ range literally make it an even more entertaining drive.”
Subaru says the new model is on sale now, with prices starting from the following (before on-road costs):
2018 Subaru BRZ manual: $33,990
2018 Subaru BRZ auto: $35,990
2018 Subaru BRZ Premiu manual: $35,490
2018 Subaru BRZ Premium auto: $37,490
2018 Subaru BRZ tS manual: $39,894
2018 Subaru BRZ tS auto: $41,894
