Subaru's BRZ tS is a love letter to the purists—the drivers who crave a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupe with a manual transmission and a short wheelbase that makes every turn feel like an event. The 2024 BRZ tS takes what made the BRZ great and sharpens it even further with track-tuned enhancements, making it arguably one of the best affordable sports cars on the market today.
But, as with any modern car, there's some give and take. Subaru finally added its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology to the manual transmission BRZ. It was a win for safety ratings but something I found a bit intrusive. This car was built for aggressive driving and handling, and I frequently found myself disabling EyeSight just to get the most out of the experience.
Old-School Driving Feel in a Tech-Driven World
Acceleration in the BRZ tS is swift and rewarding—not to the level of today's EVs that launch you into another dimension. However, there's something nostalgic and wholesome about how it delivers power. This is the kind of car that thrives on momentum, rewarding smooth shifting and precise throttle inputs.
If this car had existed in the late '80s or early '90s, back when I was in college, it would have been the most affordable performance car to have. Some might argue that it and its Toyota GR86 sibling are still the best affordable sports cars available today.
The short wheelbase and low stance make it incredibly sure-footed in the corners, with quick turn-in and a balanced chassis that lets you confidently carry speed through Atlanta's hilly terrain. Subaru's tS package elevates that further with track-ready upgrades, making this BRZ even sharper and more composed than the base model.
tS Upgrades: Factory-Enhanced or Over-Modified?
For 2024, the BRZ tS is enhanced straight from the factory with performance-focused upgrades, including:
• Brembo Brakes (for stronger, more consistent stopping power)
• Sachs Dampers (improving stability and cornering)
• STI-Tuned Suspension (giving it a more planted and predictable feel)
• Matte Bronze 18-inch Wheels (wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires for extra grip)
• tS-Specific Interior Touches (blue stitching, Alcantara seats, and STI badging)
While these enhancements are great for those who want track-ready performance out of the box, some enthusiasts and traditionalists might see them as Subaru's way of making modifications for you—removing some of the personalization that comes with tuning a car yourself. Either way, I appreciate the improvements, and this package will be worth every penny for many.
Daily Usability: Back Seats? What Back Seats?
Officially, the BRZ tS is a four-seater, but let's be real—good luck getting anyone in that backseat for more than a quick drive around the block. It's better suited for storage or the occasional emergency passenger who doesn't mind contorting themselves into an awkward position.
One interesting takeaway—if you or someone you know is looking to learn how to drive a manual transmission, this car is perfect. The clutch is light, the shifter is precise, and it rewards good technique. That said, a car with this much horsepower might not be the best first car for a teenage driver (tongue in cheek).
Buying Guide: 2024 Subaru BRZ tS Specs & Pricing
Base Price: $36,465
Performance
• Engine: 2.4L naturally aspirated Boxer-4
• Horsepower: 228 hp
• Torque: 184 lb-ft
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
• 0-60 mph: ~6.0 seconds
Handling & Braking
• Suspension: STI-Tuned Sachs Dampers
• Brakes: Brembo Performance Brakes
• Wheels: 18-inch matte bronze alloys
• Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4
Fuel Economy
• City: 20 mpg
• Highway: 27 mpg
• Combined: 22 mpg
Interior & Technology
• Seats: Ultrasuede & Leather with Blue tS Stitching
• Infotainment: 8-inch Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Safety: EyeSight Driver Assist (Lane Keep, Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control)
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Driver's Car?
The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is everything a lightweight sports coupe should be—engaging, responsive, and an absolute joy to drive. While EyeSight's intrusiveness might be a turn-off for aggressive drivers, the manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, and STI-inspired handling upgrades make this a thrilling choice for anyone who loves driving.
Would I have wanted this car back in college? Absolutely.
Would I buy it now? If I were in the market for a modern, affordable sports car, the BRZ tS would be at the top of my list.
