Subaru has launched the new tS version of its famed coupe Subaru WRX STI in the United States. This model will be positioned above the BRZ standard version which is fitted with the performance package. While, to many a disappointed fanboys, Subaru has missed giving the coupe the turbocharge treatment, it has infused a lot of hardware upgrades into the model to make it more track oriented.
The most important hardware treatment is the addition of a large carbon fiber wing which has been developed by Subaru Tecnica International (STI) to enhance the downforce on the vehicle’s rear portion. The aerodynamic wing which is complemented by other aerodynamic aids such as underspoilers to increase its efficiency, can be adjusted by the driver manually. The wing thus aids in boosting the airflow.
In the history of BRZ, this is the first time ever when Subaru will sell its famed rear while drive sports car with a set of 18-inch wheels, a lightweight STI branded kit wrapped in 215/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. Brembo brakes have been added at both the front and the rear to aid in braking. Other key hardware upgrades include SACHS dampers and coil springs, flexible V-braces in the engine and new draw stiffeners to the chassis and sub-frame to improve the steering response.
The new BRZ tS gets a series of Cherry Blossom Red and black accents outside together with the special badging. To further differentiate this ‘one of a kind’ model with the more regular ones, Subaru has ditched the fog lights of the standard model and has replaced them with a bespoke set of STI fog lamp covers.
The interiors of the track friendly BRZ are fitted with leather and alcantara upholstery finished in black with contrasting red stitching to increase the sports game up. The tS version also gets a unique gauge cluster and interior door trims, red colored seatbelts in the front, frameless mirrors and the “tS” logo embroidered on the seatbacks.
The BRZ tS version will start selling in US from the first quarter of 2018. Only 500 units of this tS version will ever be produced. The color options available would be the WR Blue Pearl color, Crystal Black Silica and Crystal White Pearl hues. Specs and pricing of this limited edition has not been announced yet.
[Source : Motor1]