Intro
The Subaru BRZ tS represents a specialized variant of the first-generation BRZ, developed through Subaru’s motorsport division, Subaru Tecnica International (STI). Released in Japan in 2011, the tS (tuned by STI) edition emerged as a performance-focused adaptation of the standard BRZ, which itself was born from the Toyota-Subaru “Toyobaru” partnership that also produced the Toyota 86.
In JDM culture, the BRZ tS holds considerable status as an embodiment of Japanese performance philosophy – extracting maximum driver engagement through balanced handling rather than raw power. The BRZ platform revitalized interest in affordable, lightweight sports coupes during an era dominated by increasingly heavy and complex performance vehicles. For JDM enthusiasts, the tS represents a factory-tuned version of an already revered chassis, carrying the prestigious STI badge without being a full STI model.
What makes this specific build remarkable is its focused approach to performance enhancement. Rather than following the common formula of considerably increasing power, the tS concentrates on chassis refinement, suspension tuning, and aerodynamic improvements. This represents the Japanese philosophy of creating driver’s cars with precise handling characteristics prioritized over straight-line speed – a principle deeply respected within enthusiast circles worldwide.
Builder Profile
A 34-year-old aerospace engineer based in Southern California, Kenji spent his formative years in Gunma, Japan before moving to the US for college. His technical background informs his methodical approach to tuning—focusing on balanced performance rather than chasing dyno numbers. Kenji believes in enhancing a car’s natural character rather than transforming it into something it’s not.
His BRZ tS project began as a weekend track toy but evolved into a showcase of subtle, functional modifications. Active in the 86/BRZ community, Kenji hosts technical workshops at local meets and contributes to online forums under the username “AirfoilLogic.” While not a competitive driver, his precision-built BRZ has earned respect at Buttonwillow and Streets of Willow track days.
Why We Love It
The BRZ tS represents Subaru’s purest expression of chassis communication—a vehicle where every steering input generates an immediate, unfiltered response. STI’s chassis wizards transformed the already capable BRZ platform with bespoke SACHS dampers offering precise compression and rebound characteristics. The draw-stiffened suspension architecture reduces initial weight transfer, allowing drivers to feel the exact moment when grip shifts from static to dynamic friction.
What captivates most is the tS’s near-telepathic shifting balance. The larger 18-inch forged aluminum wheels reduce unsprung mass while the Brembo monoblock calipers provide consistent pedal feel even after multiple hot laps at Suzuka or Fuji Speedway. This is chassis tuning born from decades of rally heritage, yet optimized for asphalt precision.
The tS designation—tuned by STI—signifies something increasingly rare in contemporary motoring: restraint. Rather than pursuing outright power, STI engineers focused on the mechanical symphony between driver and machine. The front tower bar with flexible joints allows for both chassis rigidity and subtle compliance—an engineering contradiction brilliantly resolved.
In an era where driving experiences are increasingly digitized and filtered, the BRZ tS offers analog communication. Its limited production numbers guarantee it remains the preserve of those who understand that automotive excellence isn’t measured in straight-line statistics, but in how confidently one can approach the chassis limits corner after corner.
Mods
Engine & Drivetrain
- HKS GT Supercharger Kit (+60hp)
- Tomei Expreme Ti Titanium Exhaust System
- AVO Turboworld Front-Mount Intercooler
- HKS Hi-Power Spec-L Muffler
- GReddy Oil Cooler Kit
- Cusco Oil Catch Can
- Exedy Stage 2 Clutch Kit
- Perrin Short Shifter
Suspension & Brakes
- KW Variant 3 Coilovers
- Cusco Type RS Adjustable Sway Bars
- Cusco Front Tower Bar
- Whiteline Roll Center Adjustment Kit
- Brembo GT BBK (4-pot front, 2-pot rear)
- Project μ Club Racer Brake Pads
- Goodridge Stainless Steel Brake Lines
Wheels & Tires
- Volk Racing TE37 SL 18×8.5″ +45
- Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08R 225/40R18
- Project KICS R40 Lug Nuts
- 15mm Spacers (rear only)
Exterior / Aero
- Chargespeed Bottom Line Carbon Fiber Kit
- Seibon Carbon Fiber Hood
- APR Carbon GT Wing
- Valenti Smoked LED Tail Lights
- J’s Racing Carbon Fiber Canards
- TRD Side Skirts
- TRD Rear Diffuser
Interior
- Bride Low Max VIOS III Seats
- Takata 4-Point Harnesses
- Personal Neo Grinta Steering Wheel
- Works Bell Quick Release Hub
- Cusco 6-Point Roll Cage
- DEFI 60mm Gauges (Boost, Oil Pressure, Oil Temp)
- Nardi Shift Knob
- Alcantara Dashboard Cover
Electronics / ECU
- AEM Engine Management System
- HKS EVC Electronic Boost Controller
- Blitz SBC i-Color Boost Controller
- Cusco IKEGG Data Logger
- GReddy Profec Electronic Boost Controller
- Pioneer AVH-X8850BT Head Unit
- JL Audio 10W3v3 Subwoofer
- Alpine PDX-V9 5-Channel Amplifier
Driving Impression / Build Philosophy
The 2011 Subaru BRZ tS represents a harmonious integration of performance modifications that enhance the car’s inherent strengths without compromising its fundamental character. STI engineers approached this special edition with surgical precision, focusing on chassis rigidity, suspension tuning, and aerodynamic improvements rather than outright power gains.
The modifications coalesce around a single philosophy: creating the ultimate expression of balance for the driving enthusiast. The stiffer chassis, thanks to the added bracing and reinforcements, communicates road conditions with exceptional clarity while the STI-tuned suspension maintains consistent contact with the asphalt. Brembo brakes provide confident stopping power that complements the chassis improvements, allowing drivers to push harder with greater control.
This is decidedly a street-focused package with serious circuit capabilities. The BRZ tS isn’t built for drift competitions or dedicated time attack events, but rather for the driving purist who appreciates mechanical precision and feedback during spirited road driving and occasional track days. The modifications strike an ideal compromise between daily usability and weekend performance, maintaining comfort while notably raising the car’s performance ceiling.
What’s most impressive about the BRZ tS is how each modification serves a purpose beyond mere appearance, creating a cohesive driving experience that elevates the standard BRZ’s already impressive handling characteristics to near-exotic levels of precision and engagement.
FAQ
Is the 2011 Subaru BRZ tS reliable?
The 2011 Subaru BRZ tS has proven to be quite reliable with proper maintenance. Most owners report minimal mechanical issues beyond normal wear items. The FA20 engine is generally robust, though some early models experienced minor oil consumption issues that were largely addressed in later production runs.
What is the tuning potential for the BRZ tS?
The BRZ tS offers excellent tuning potential despite being naturally aspirated. Popular modifications include forced induction (supercharger or turbocharger) installations that can boost power from the stock 200hp to 250-350hp depending on setup. ECU tuning, intake and exhaust modifications also yield noticeable performance improvements with relatively modest investment.
What are common issues with the BRZ tS?
Common issues include crickets/chirping from the fuel pump, minor interior rattles, and occasional issues with the throw-out bearing. Some owners report premature clutch wear. The direct injection system can lead to carbon buildup on intake valves over time, potentially requiring cleaning after high mileage.
What are the best modifications for the BRZ tS?
The most effective modifications include: headers and a proper tune for immediate power gains, coilovers for improved handling beyond the already capable STI suspension, stickier tires to maximize the chassis potential, and an oil cooler for track use. For more substantial power gains, forced induction remains the most transformative option.
How is the ownership experience of the BRZ tS compared to the standard BRZ?
The tS ownership experience offers all the driving enjoyment of the standard BRZ with enhanced handling characteristics. The STI-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and chassis reinforcements make it more capable on twisty roads and track days. Owners consistently praise the tS’s more refined driving dynamics while maintaining the lightweight, balanced nature that defines the platform.
Conclusion
Despite being over a decade old, the 2011 Subaru BRZ tS stands as a representation of Japanese automotive engineering at its finest. Its perfectly balanced chassis, responsive steering, and driver-focused ethos continue to serve as a benchmark for affordable sports cars in today’s increasingly digitized automotive landscape.
The BRZ tS exemplifies the JDM philosophy of creating vehicles that prioritize the connection between driver and machine over raw statistics. This approach has cemented its place in enthusiast circles worldwide, where the car enjoys a dedicated following that appreciates its analog driving experience and tuning potential.
As modern vehicles trend toward electrification and driving assistance technologies, the BRZ tS remains relevant precisely because of its purity and simplicity. It represents a driving experience that’s becoming increasingly rare—one that celebrates the art of driving and the culture of modification that has defined Japanese performance cars for generations.