2013 Scion FR-S – QUICK TAKES

The FR-S provides the automotive landscape with an authentic sports car at an affordable price, with a MSRP of $24,200 when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, and $25,300 when equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission that features paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology.

The FR-S, which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport; comes standard with a 2.0-liter boxer engine produces an impressive 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. The flat engine is mounted extremely low, giving the car a dynamically low center of gravity comparable to some exotic supercars.

Despite the engine’s powerful 100-horsepower per liter, the FR-S has EPA-estimated ratings of 34 mpg on the highway when paired with the automatic transmission, and EPA-estimated 30 mpg with the manual transmission.

The FR-S’s lightweight design allows it to be quick and nimble into and out of corners, with dynamic maneuverability and confident handling. The FR-S’s low weight is complimented by a dynamically tuned suspension setup consisting of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone system in the rear.

To help bring the rear-wheel-drive design to life, the FR-S features a standard Torsen® limited-slip differential, apportioning power to the rear wheels with precision and immediacy. Lightweight 17×7-inch alloy wheels and ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four corners.

The FR-S’s interior includes a 2+2 seating configuration that is designed with both form and function in mind. The comfortable yet assertive front seats feature deep bolsters and are mounted extremely low, while the rear seat folds down flat, creating flexible space.

The large center-mounted tachometer is the focus of the three-gauge cluster and features a programmable shift-indicator, which has a small but intense indicator that lights up when redline is reached. The FR-S features a performance-oriented, leather-trimmed steering wheel that has both tilt and telescopic adjustment. The FR-S comes standard with an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/USB 300-watt maximum output Pioneer™ audio system as well as HD Radio™ technology and Bluetooth^® connectivity.