subaru revealed a “sharper and more focused” version of the latest generation BRZ at an event in the United States – and it revived a nameplate last seen in 2021 on the previous-generation model.
Image of Subaru BRZ tS at the “passionate festival” Subiefest California was shared online on various social media. At this stage, Subaru has yet to officially release any details about the vehicle.
We have reached out to Subaru Australia regarding the BRZ tS and will update this story once we receive a response.
According to Reddit user platinum element, the BRZ tS will not be a limited production model as in some markets but will instead be a new trim level available in any production color. In Australia, the previous-generation model has been a permanent variant since its introduction in late 2017.
On the outside, there’s not much to distinguish the new BRZ tS from the regular models.
The only modifications that are visible include the tS badging on the front air intakes and the red BRZ logo in the corner of the headlights.
platinum element says it comes with Brembo brakes with gold brake calipers and Hitachi dampers.
The previous-generation model had a number of STI accessories, including a body kit and spoiler, along with tweaks to the suspension, brakes, wheels and gearshift.
At this stage, it remains unclear whether Subaru will adapt the BRZ’s 2.4-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine for the tS.
It’s also unclear whether the BRZ tS will only have a manual transmission or an automatic transmission option. The previous generation model is available with both local.
The STI division recently changed course, confirming that they will not be developing the WRX STI – their traditional flagship model.
“The Subaru Corporation will fast-track investment in future performance technologies, confirming today that there will be no STI variant for the next-generation Subaru WRX.” Subaru Australia said last March.
“This announcement paves the way for an exciting new era of performance excitement; with Subaru Tecnica International (STI) focused on bringing new technologies to future Subaru models.”
Subaru is determined keep it alive however, in some forms Down Under.
Along with performance parts for new WRX sedan and Sportswagon, the STI badge looks set to spread throughout the Subaru lineup with a range of STI models tuned for more performance-oriented.
“We acknowledge the enduring love Australians have for the WRX STI and the STI brand,” Subaru Australia CEO Blair Read told the media.
“The STI engineers and that team, who have done all these amazing things, have yet to pack up and go home. They are still there,” Mr. Read said CarExpert.
“Part of the change in direction with the STI brand is how it can play a role not only in one model variant but across all products. There are interesting options and developments in a number of different areas that will feed into all the different models,” he said.
THAN: Everything Subaru BRZ
