Subaru BRZ ts launched (in Japan)

No more power but a host of interesting tweaks for the latest STI-fettled BRZ

Let's make the power situation very clear because it inevitably comes up very quickly in any BRZ/GT86 discussion. Despite the presence of STI badges and that stunning New York concept, this is not a faster BRZ. With 200hp at 7,000rpm and 151lb ft between 6,400-6,600rpm, it is just like any other standard Toyobaru. All clear?

New wheels, tyres, brakes, dampers - proper job!

Good, because this is still an intriguing car, proving that Subaru is certainly keen to sanction factory-backed tuning and optimisation. It also looks pretty cool, the deletion of the rear spoiler and the addition of the STI splitter certainly doing the BRZ a favour visually.

Tyres are usually the second thing to be discussed around the BRZ after the performance; the ts runs 225/40 ZR 18 Michelin Pilot Super Sports, a much more performance oriented tyre than the standard Primacy rubber. The wheels are of an STI design. There are also Brembo brakes front and rear and tuned STI suspension as well; springs and dampers, plus the "flexible V-shaped bar" and "flexible draw stiffener" have had a Subaru Technica International refresh.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control ESP system has been recalibrated, along with the intake sound resonator. Subaru claims the STI complete car "achieves both agile handling performance evoking a racing car" as well as a "high quality ride". It also promises "inherent handling pleasure". Quite.

There's the usual smattering of badges and interior trinkets (including some very nice seats) to mark the BRZ ts out as a special edition, plus the choice of Sunrise Yellow, WR Blue, Crystal White and Crystal Black paint. There will only be 300 made for Japan, costing 3,694,444 yen, or just over £19K at today's exchange rate. Now if Subaru could just find a way of making the ts mods a dealer-fit handling pack in the UK...