Subaru BRZ tS
The Subaru BRZ tS (tuned by STI) represented the factory's vision of the ultimate lightweight sports car. While the base BRZ was already celebrated for its purity of purpose and exceptional handling, the tS took things further with STI-developed flexible V-braces and draw stiffeners that improved chassis rigidity without adding significant weight. Sachs performance dampers provided better body control, while Brembo brakes (326mm front, 316mm rear) offered substantially improved stopping power. The engine remained the FA20 naturally aspirated flat-four with 200 hp — STI chose to refine the chassis rather than add power, in keeping with the BRZ's philosophy that handling matters more than horsepower. The result was a car that could be driven at 10/10ths on a mountain road with complete confidence, its balanced chassis communicating every nuance through the seat and steering wheel. Limited production numbers and the STI badge make the tS the most collectible BRZ variant.
The FA20 engine is generally reliable but has known valve spring issues on early cars. Check for the Subaru recall compliance. Verify STI-specific parts are present. The 6-speed manual is robust. Brembo brakes need quality pads to avoid dust and noise. Oil changes at shorter intervals recommended.
STI (Subaru Tecnica International) developed the tS with a focus on chassis refinement rather than power. The flexible V-braces and draw stiffeners are unique STI components. Only available in Japan initially, later versions were offered in select export markets. The FA20 engine was co-developed with Toyota.