Created as a collaboration between Toyota and Subaru, the FR-S four-seat sports coupe offers a fun and responsive driving experience. While not as powerful as some sports coupes, this one has the advantage of affordability.
What's New for 2014
Although the FR-S was introduced as a brand-new model in 2013, there are a few changes for the 2014 model year. The 10 Series trim, a special package commemorating Scion’s 10th anniversary in 2013, is no longer available. The previously optional touchscreen interface for the audio system is now standard; and additional padding on the center console and inside door panels now protects the driver and front passenger from bruised knees.
Choosing Your Scion FR-S
The Subaru portion of the FR-S’s origins shows in the 2-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. Also known as a boxer, this engine is capable of producing 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is the only drivetrain available.
Buyers get a choice of a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters and rev-matching downshifts. Fuel economy comparisons show that the manual transmission gets 25 mpg in combined driving while the automatic boosts that figure to 28 mpg.
While the FR-S comes equipped with few luxuries in its one trim choice, it does include all the features necessary for a well-equipped sports coupe, such as air conditioning, an eight-speaker sound system, and Bluetooth with phone and audio connectivity.
No factory options exist for this Scion, but several dealer-installed accessories are available including:
- A Bespoke premium audio system includes navigation and smartphone app integration
- A stainless-steel TRD performance dual exhaust system provides more of that traditional sports car sound while meeting all emissions and noise requirements
- Fog lights
- Rear lip spoiler
If the FR-S seems more bare bones than you would like, remember that Scion has deliberately kept the equipment list short and light in order to enhance the car’s driving experience.
The FR-S hasn't sold as well as the Subaru BRZ—there's a good chance you'll get a better deal on Scion's version.