Scion unveiled its 2013 FR-S compact rear-wheel drive sports car to a crowd of eager car enthusiasts. The Scion FR-S, which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport; is Scion's definition of an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports car with exceptionally balanced performance and handling, compelling style, flexible utility and surprising MPG.
"Serving as a laboratory for Toyota, Scion is always experimenting with new things," said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president. The Scion FR-S is a true "scion," born into a lengthy history of Toyota performance cars and motorsports. The front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe was lightweight and well balanced, making it a solid choice for driving enthusiasts.
The balance begins with the strategic use of the world's only flat boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration. The rear fascia sits low and wide, with aerodynamic lower treatments that surround the sporty dual exhaust system.
As we noted when they debuted in Tokyo earlier this week, the Toyota (GT) 86 and the Subaru BRZ are identical save for some minor cosmetic differences. The only real difference is the Scion badge in place of Toyota’s encircled T logo. Only the Scion and the Subaru will be sold in the U.S., while Toyota’s offering is headed for non-Scion markets (i.e. everywhere else).
Likewise, the Scion will offer the same choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
Inside are the same Toyota/Subaru touches like a diminutive 14.4-inch diameter steering wheel, low-lying bucket seats, and a centralized tach/speedometer combo.
Power output from Subaru’s FA-series 2.0-liter boxer remains at 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet and uses Toyota’s innovative D-4S fuel-injection system. Aisin’s six-speed manual and paddle-shift automatic gearboxes route power to the rear 215/45-17 Michelin rubber.
