Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Subaru BRZ TS – a car that has captured the hearts of many Aussie petrolheads. The question on everyone's mind: Is it really worth the hype and the extra dollars? Buckle up, because we're about to find out everything you need to know about this track-focused beauty.

What is the Subaru BRZ TS?

Before we get started, let's clarify what the Subaru BRZ TS actually is. The 'TS' stands for 'Tuned by STI' (Subaru Tecnica International), which means it's not just your regular BRZ. Think of it as the BRZ that's been hitting the gym and attending finishing school. The TS variant comes with a host of upgrades designed to improve handling, braking, and overall driving experience. We're talking about things like STI-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and a few aesthetic tweaks to set it apart from the standard model. The Subaru BRZ TS is designed for the driving enthusiast who wants a more engaging and capable sports car straight from the factory. It bridges the gap between the standard BRZ and a fully custom-built track car, offering a balanced package of performance and everyday usability. The appeal of the TS lies in its enhanced responsiveness and precision, making it a joy to drive on both winding roads and race tracks. Subaru aimed to create a car that inspires confidence and provides a more connected driving experience, and with the TS, they've largely succeeded. The upgrades aren't just for show; they genuinely transform the car's dynamics, making it sharper and more rewarding to drive. For those who appreciate the finer details of automotive engineering, the BRZ TS offers a compelling package that elevates the driving experience to a new level. The TS model also typically includes unique interior elements such as special seats, trim, and badging to further distinguish it from the standard BRZ. These enhancements add to the sense of exclusivity and make the driver feel like they're behind the wheel of something truly special. By focusing on improving the car's core performance attributes, Subaru has created a variant that appeals to enthusiasts who demand more than just a stylish coupe. The BRZ TS is a testament to Subaru's commitment to delivering engaging and rewarding driving experiences.

Key Features and Upgrades

So, what exactly makes the BRZ TS so special? Let's break down the key features and upgrades that set it apart:

• STI-tuned Suspension: This is where the magic happens. The STI-tuned suspension includes upgraded dampers and springs, resulting in a firmer and more controlled ride. Body roll is reduced, and the car feels more planted in corners. The difference is noticeable from the moment you start driving. The suspension upgrades aren't just about making the ride stiffer; they're about improving the car's overall balance and responsiveness. The STI-tuned suspension provides a more connected feel to the road, allowing drivers to anticipate and react more quickly to changing conditions. This enhanced responsiveness translates to greater confidence behind the wheel, whether you're navigating tight corners or cruising on the open highway. The suspension also helps to minimize unwanted body movement, keeping the car flat and stable even during aggressive maneuvers. This not only improves handling but also enhances the overall comfort of the ride, making the BRZ TS a pleasure to drive in a variety of conditions. By fine-tuning the suspension components, STI has created a setup that perfectly complements the BRZ's lightweight chassis and rear-wheel-drive configuration. The result is a car that feels agile, precise, and incredibly fun to drive.
• Brembo Brakes: Stopping power is crucial, especially on the track. The Brembo brakes on the BRZ TS provide significantly improved braking performance compared to the standard model. Expect shorter stopping distances and better resistance to brake fade. These high-performance brakes give you the confidence to push the car harder, knowing you can always rely on them to bring you to a halt. The Brembo brakes on the BRZ TS are designed to withstand the rigors of high-performance driving, providing consistent and reliable stopping power even under extreme conditions. The upgraded calipers and rotors offer increased thermal capacity, reducing the risk of brake fade and ensuring optimal performance lap after lap. This not only enhances safety but also allows drivers to maintain higher speeds and brake later into corners, resulting in faster lap times and a more exhilarating driving experience. The Brembo braking system is also engineered to provide excellent pedal feel and modulation, giving drivers precise control over braking force. This allows for smoother and more controlled deceleration, improving overall driving dynamics and enhancing the sense of connection with the car. The Brembo brakes are a crucial component of the BRZ TS package, providing a significant upgrade in performance and giving drivers the confidence to explore the car's full potential.
• STI Aesthetic Tweaks: While the performance upgrades are the main draw, the BRZ TS also gets a few visual enhancements. These might include unique wheels, a different rear spoiler, and some interior trim changes. These subtle touches help to distinguish the TS from the standard BRZ and give it a more aggressive and sporty appearance. The STI aesthetic tweaks are carefully designed to enhance the car's overall look without compromising its clean and purposeful design. The unique wheels not only improve the car's stance but also contribute to its overall handling and performance. The rear spoiler adds a touch of visual flair while also providing functional benefits, such as improved aerodynamics and increased downforce at higher speeds. Inside the cabin, the STI trim changes add a sense of exclusivity and elevate the overall driving experience. These details, such as special stitching, unique badging, and upgraded materials, create a more premium and sporty feel. The STI aesthetic tweaks are more than just cosmetic enhancements; they're an integral part of the BRZ TS package, adding to the car's overall appeal and making it stand out from the crowd. They demonstrate Subaru's attention to detail and their commitment to creating a car that is both visually stunning and performance-oriented.

Driving Experience

Alright, let's get to the good stuff: how does the BRZ TS actually drive? In short, it's a blast. The STI-tuned suspension makes a noticeable difference in handling, providing a sharper and more responsive feel. The car corners flatter and inspires more confidence. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a great sense of what the front wheels are doing. The Brembo brakes offer excellent stopping power, allowing you to brake later and harder. Overall, the BRZ TS feels more engaging and rewarding to drive than the standard model. The enhanced handling and braking performance make it a joy to tackle winding roads or even a track day. The BRZ TS offers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and confidence-inspiring. The combination of the STI-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and precise steering creates a car that feels perfectly balanced and responsive. Whether you're carving through mountain roads or navigating city streets, the BRZ TS delivers a level of engagement and connection that is rare in modern cars. The car's lightweight chassis and rear-wheel-drive configuration contribute to its agile and playful nature, making it a joy to drive in a variety of conditions. The BRZ TS is a car that rewards skilled drivers with its precise handling and predictable behavior. It's a car that encourages you to push your limits and explore its full potential. The driving experience is further enhanced by the car's responsive engine and slick-shifting manual transmission, which work together to deliver a seamless and engaging driving experience. The BRZ TS is a true driver's car that will leave you grinning from ear to ear every time you get behind the wheel.

Performance and Engine

Under the hood, the BRZ TS retains the same 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine as the standard BRZ. While it's not a powerhouse, it's a rev-happy engine that loves to be pushed. It produces around 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. The engine's character is what makes it special. It's not about outright speed, but about how it delivers its power. The BRZ TS is all about momentum and maintaining speed through corners. The engine's responsiveness and linear power delivery make it easy to modulate the throttle and maintain control. The BRZ TS's engine is a testament to the idea that horsepower isn't everything. While it may not have the raw power of some of its competitors, its rev-happy nature and linear power delivery make it a joy to drive. The engine's responsiveness allows drivers to precisely control the car's behavior, making it easy to maintain momentum through corners and extract the most out of the chassis. The engine is also known for its reliability and durability, making it a great choice for enthusiasts who plan to put their car through its paces on the track. The BRZ TS's engine is a key component of its overall driving experience, providing the perfect balance of power and control. The engine's sound is also a highlight, with a distinctive exhaust note that adds to the car's sporty character. The BRZ TS is a car that rewards skilled drivers with its precise handling and predictable behavior, and the engine is a key part of that equation.

Pros and Cons

Let's weigh the pros and cons of the Subaru BRZ TS:

Pros:

• Improved Handling: The STI-tuned suspension makes a significant difference.
• Better Brakes: Brembo brakes provide excellent stopping power.
• Engaging Driving Experience: The BRZ TS is a joy to drive on twisty roads.
• Unique Styling: The STI aesthetic tweaks set it apart from the standard model.

Cons:

• Price: The BRZ TS is more expensive than the standard BRZ.
• Engine Power: Some may find the engine lacking in outright power.
• Availability: The BRZ TS is often produced in limited numbers, making it harder to find.

Is the Subaru BRZ TS Worth It?

So, is the Subaru BRZ TS worth the extra money? It really depends on what you're looking for. If you're a driving enthusiast who appreciates improved handling, better brakes, and a more engaging driving experience, then the BRZ TS is definitely worth considering. The upgrades are noticeable and make a real difference in the car's performance. However, if you're primarily concerned with straight-line speed or are on a tight budget, the standard BRZ might be a better option. The BRZ TS offers a unique blend of performance, style, and exclusivity that sets it apart from the standard model. The upgrades are not just cosmetic; they genuinely enhance the car's driving dynamics and make it more enjoyable to drive. Whether you're carving through mountain roads or tackling a track day, the BRZ TS delivers a level of engagement and connection that is rare in modern cars. However, the higher price tag may be a barrier for some buyers. If you're on a tight budget or don't plan to take advantage of the performance upgrades, the standard BRZ may be a more sensible choice. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a BRZ TS comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you value performance and exclusivity and are willing to pay a premium for it, the BRZ TS is a fantastic choice. However, if you're looking for a more affordable and practical sports car, the standard BRZ may be a better fit.

Alternatives to the Subaru BRZ TS

If the BRZ TS isn't quite what you're looking for, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Toyota 86/GR86: The Toyota 86 is essentially the same car as the BRZ, but with slightly different styling and tuning. The GR86 is the newer generation, offering improved performance and handling.
• Mazda MX-5: The Mazda MX-5 is a classic roadster that offers a similar level of driving enjoyment to the BRZ. It's smaller and lighter, making it feel even more agile.
• Nissan Z: The Nissan Z is a more powerful and luxurious sports car that offers a different driving experience than the BRZ. It's more expensive, but it also offers more performance and features.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Subaru BRZ TS is a fantastic sports car that offers a more engaging and rewarding driving experience than the standard model. The STI-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes make a noticeable difference in handling and braking performance. If you're a driving enthusiast looking for a track-focused sports car, the BRZ TS is definitely worth considering. However, be prepared to pay a premium for the upgrades and keep in mind that availability may be limited. Overall, the BRZ TS is a well-rounded package that delivers on its promise of providing a more thrilling and connected driving experience. If you're passionate about driving and appreciate the finer details of automotive engineering, the BRZ TS is a car that will not disappoint. So, there you have it – everything you need to know about the Subaru BRZ TS in Australia. Happy driving, guys!