In the competitive world of compact sports cars, few vehicles hold a legacy as iconic as the Subaru BRZ. With its roots firmly planted in offering enthusiasts an exhilarating driving experience without the exorbitant price tag, the BRZ has continuously evolved, embracing innovation while staying true to its core philosophy. The 2025 Subaru BRZ tS represents the pinnacle of this journey, reimagining what a sports car in this class can achieve. More than a facelift or a minor upgrade, this iteration introduces significant performance enhancements, refined aesthetics, and cutting-edge technology, all designed to deliver a driving experience that resonates deeply with both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the brand.
A car's design is often its first impression, and the 2025 BRZ tS makes a striking one. Subaru has seamlessly blended aggressive styling with understated elegance, ensuring the car stands out in a crowded segment. The tS trim elevates the BRZ's visual appeal with details like its exclusive 18-inch Dark Gray Metallic alloy wheels, which perfectly balance weight reduction with aesthetic appeal. Accentuated by black mirror caps and a matching shark-fin antenna, the car achieves a cohesive design language that speaks to its performance intent. However, these elements aren't merely for show; they are engineered to enhance aerodynamics, reduce drag, and improve high-speed stability. The low-slung profile, wide stance, and aerodynamic enhancements such as the functional front bumper and rear spoiler underscore the meticulous craftsmanship, making the BRZ tS a visual and functional masterpiece.
At the heart of the BRZ tS lies Subaru’s renowned boxer engine—a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four powerhouse. Producing 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, this engine provides a harmonious balance of power and control. Unlike turbocharged engines that often sacrifice linearity for sheer output, this boxer engine delivers smooth, predictable power throughout the rev range, making it a delight for purists who crave a tactile connection to the road. Paired exclusively with a short-throw six-speed manual transmission, the BRZ tS embodies the joy of driving with full engagement. The engine and transmission work in unison to create a responsive, high-revving experience that encourages spirited driving, whether carving up mountain roads or tackling a track day. This performance-oriented setup is further complemented by lightweight construction and a low center of gravity, hallmarks of Subaru’s engineering philosophy.
The tS designation stands for "tuned by STI," and Subaru's in-house performance division has left no stone unturned in refining the BRZ tS. This trim is equipped with STI-tuned Hitachi dampers on both the front and rear axles, ensuring precise handling and exceptional ride comfort. The suspension upgrades provide improved stability and sharper cornering, making the car feel planted even during aggressive maneuvers. Subaru has also integrated a high-performance Brembo braking system, featuring larger calipers and rotors for superior stopping power. This upgrade not only enhances safety but also gives drivers the confidence to push the car harder, knowing it can stop on a dime. Additionally, the lightweight aluminum construction of the chassis and suspension components reduces unsprung weight, further improving handling dynamics. These enhancements are designed not just for enthusiasts who crave performance but also for those who value refinement and reliability in their everyday drives.
The BRZ tS's cabin reflects Subaru’s attention to detail, ensuring that drivers and passengers are surrounded by both comfort and functionality. The interior design is clean yet sporty, with premium materials used throughout to elevate the overall ambiance. Exclusive to the tS trim are blue accent stitching and embroidered details, adding a subtle nod to the car's performance pedigree. The seats are ergonomically designed to provide excellent lateral support during spirited driving, while still offering comfort for long-distance journeys. An STI-branded start/stop button and a unique digital animation upon startup remind drivers that they’re in something special. Beyond aesthetics, the layout is meticulously designed to put every control within easy reach, allowing the driver to focus entirely on the road. The dual-zone climate control, coupled with premium sound insulation, ensures a quiet and comfortable ride, even when the car is pushed to its limits.
Despite its focus on pure driving pleasure, the 2025 BRZ tS doesn’t skimp on modern tech. At its core is an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen system that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and hands-free communication. The system is intuitive and responsive, making it easy to access essential functions without distraction. A 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster is another highlight, providing real-time performance metrics such as G-forces, lap times, and engine output. Dual USB ports allow passengers to stay connected, while integrated voice controls ensure that drivers can access essential features without taking their hands off the wheel. Subaru has also included advanced connectivity features like over-the-air updates, ensuring the system remains up-to-date with the latest software improvements. These technological touches blend seamlessly with the car’s analog charms, creating an environment that’s both engaging and convenient.
Safety has always been a cornerstone of Subaru’s philosophy, and the BRZ tS is no exception. Equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, this sports car offers a suite of advanced safety features that enhance driver confidence without detracting from the driving experience. Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking work in concert to provide an extra layer of security, particularly in everyday driving scenarios. Additionally, sway warning monitors driver attentiveness, alerting them if signs of drowsiness or distraction are detected. The advanced traction and stability control systems ensure that the car remains composed even in challenging conditions, allowing drivers to fully enjoy its dynamic capabilities without compromising safety. These features make the BRZ tS not only a thrilling sports car but also a practical choice for those who prioritize safety in their daily commutes.
The BRZ tS stays true to its roots as a rear-wheel-drive sports car, delivering a driving experience that’s as rewarding as it is engaging. Unlike many modern sports cars that prioritize outright speed, the BRZ tS focuses on balance, agility, and driver involvement. The steering is incredibly precise, offering exceptional feedback that allows drivers to place the car with pinpoint accuracy. The chassis, with its low center of gravity and near-perfect weight distribution, ensures that the car remains agile and composed in any driving scenario. Whether navigating tight hairpins or enjoying high-speed sweepers, the BRZ tS offers a sense of connection that’s increasingly rare in today’s performance cars. The STI-tuned suspension and limited-slip differential further enhance the car’s cornering prowess, allowing drivers to exploit its full potential without breaking a sweat.
While performance is the primary focus of the BRZ tS, it doesn’t come at the expense of efficiency. Thanks to Subaru’s engineering expertise, the 2.4-liter boxer engine manages to deliver impressive fuel economy figures for a car in this class. The manual transmission variant achieves an EPA-rated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, making it a viable option for those who want to enjoy a performance-oriented vehicle without frequent stops at the pump. This balance of power and efficiency underscores Subaru’s commitment to providing a well-rounded sports car that caters to the needs of modern drivers. It’s a car that can excel on the track and still be practical enough for everyday use, making it a standout choice in the competitive sports car segment.
Starting at $36,245, the BRZ tS represents an exceptional value proposition in the world of performance cars. Its combination of advanced engineering, premium features, and competitive pricing positions it as a formidable contender against rivals from both Japanese and European manufacturers. While many sports cars in this price range make compromises in one area or another, the BRZ tS delivers a holistic package that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Whether you’re an enthusiast looking for a track-ready machine or a casual driver seeking an exciting daily commuter, the BRZ tS offers something for everyone. Its ability to blend performance, comfort, and practicality makes it a unique offering in a segment often defined by trade-offs.
The 2025 Subaru BRZ tS is not just a car; it’s a statement of intent. It redefines what’s possible in the realm of affordable sports cars, combining thrilling performance with modern technology, safety, and everyday usability. Subaru’s unwavering commitment to engineering excellence is evident in every aspect of the BRZ tS, from its meticulously tuned suspension to its driver-focused interior. This is a car that doesn’t just meet expectations—it exceeds them, setting a new standard for what enthusiasts can expect in this segment. For those who crave an authentic, unfiltered driving experience without sacrificing modern conveniences, the BRZ tS is the ultimate choice.