The 2013 Scion FR-S burst onto the scene as a fresh take on the sports car, prioritizing driving pleasure and balance over outright power. While discussions often revolve around raw figures, understanding the Scion FR-S horsepower in context reveals the true essence of this beloved coupe. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about how that power translates to an exhilarating driving experience.
The moment you get behind the wheel of the FR-S, the experience speaks volumes. A quick tap of the throttle, a snappy downshift, and a turn of the responsive steering wheel immediately highlight what makes this car special. Entering a corner in the FR-S becomes an engaging dance. As the traction control light flickers, signaling the playful slip of the rear tires, the chassis communicates beautifully, allowing for precise adjustments and a thrilling sense of control. It’s a reminder that driving enjoyment isn’t solely dictated by peak Scion FR-S horsepower figures, but by the overall harmony of the vehicle.
Emerging from the corner and accelerating onto the straight, the anticipation for the road ahead builds. Each corner presents a new opportunity to experience the FR-S’s agility and responsiveness. And with a full tank of fuel, the promise of driving fun is set for the entire day.
For those familiar with automotive news, the Scion FR-S, known as the Toyota 86 or GT86 in other markets and the Subaru BRZ, needs little introduction. For North America, Scion dubbed it the FR-S, an acronym standing for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport. This naming convention clearly signals Scion’s intention: to inject performance and excitement into its entry-level brand. The FR-S represented a crucial step for Scion, aiming to deliver genuine athleticism and marketing appeal.
The FR-S carries a significant legacy on its shoulders. Chief engineer Tetsuya Tada emphasized its connection to a lineage of iconic Toyota sports cars. This heritage includes legends like the Sports 800, the groundbreaking 2000GT, the Celica, Supra, LFA, MR2, and the revered Corolla AE86, affectionately known as the “Hachi-Roku.” The AE86, in particular, served as a key inspiration for the FR-S, embodying the ideal of high-performance and high-value. Design cues from the 2000GT, like its long hood and sleek side profile, and the lightweight philosophy of the S800, also influenced the FR-S’s development.
Starting in 2008, Toyota and Subaru collaborated to create a modern sports coupe that honored this heritage while meeting contemporary driving demands. The result was a sleek 2+2 coupe with carefully considered dimensions: a 101.2-inch wheelbase, a low driver’s hip point just 15.7 inches above the ground, a 166.7-inch overall length with short overhangs, and a target weight of around 2700 pounds. Practicality wasn’t forgotten; folding the rear seats expands the trunk space to accommodate a full set of mounted wheels and tires, a fuel can, tools, and a helmet. Or, as Tada-san humorously pointed out, enough space for two golf bags.
Balance and agility were paramount to the FR-S’s design philosophy. Engineers incorporated weight-saving measures like an aluminum hood and trunk, opting for a coupe design over a hatchback to enhance rigidity. The Subaru-sourced 2.0-liter four-cylinder 4U-GSE boxer engine (Toyota code) and the Aisin six-speed manual or automatic transaxle were positioned as far back and as low as possible to achieve “pure balance.” Toyota/Scion boasted that the FR-S’s center of gravity, at 18.1 inches, was lower than that of the Porsche Cayman and Nissan GT-R, benchmarks for driving dynamics. The weight distribution of 53% front and 47% rear was intentionally tuned for predictable handling characteristics.
So, how does this engineering translate to the driving experience of the 2013 Scion FR-S? In short, it sets a new benchmark for budget-friendly sports cars. Competitors in the market, ranging from the Honda CR-Z and Mazda RX-8 to the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, Mazda MX-5, Honda Civic Si, and even the Nissan 370Z, needed to take notice. The FR-S arrived as a serious contender.
Approaching a double-apex corner, the FR-S reveals its eagerness to be driven hard. Despite aggressive cornering, the car remains remarkably composed and stable. Turn-in is exceptionally sharp, and the excellent forward visibility allows for precise corner entry and exit. While understeer isn’t entirely absent, it’s easily managed with throttle control and driver input. The same applies to oversteer, as demonstrated earlier – a bit too much throttle can initiate playful drifts. The small diameter steering wheel is integral to the driving experience, offering a feel that strikes a balance between the BMW M3 and the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Porsche Cayman.
The 2.0-liter engine, while not boasting massive Scion FR-S horsepower figures on paper, proves surprisingly responsive. Its 151 lb-ft of torque is accessible across the rev range, allowing drivers to focus on cornering rather than constantly downshifting for power. Above 3500 rpm, the engine unleashes an aggressive and distinctive exhaust note, a unique sound for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder. It’s a characterful sound, distinct from both Subaru’s turbocharged rumble and Honda’s inline-four buzz.
The six-speed manual transmission offers a satisfyingly mechanical feel, encouraging precise, rev-matched shifts. The optional paddle-shift automatic transmission provides quick and seamless gear changes, especially in Sport mode, catering to drivers who navigate daily traffic but still desire sporty performance.
Manual transmission-equipped FR-S models include a VSC Sport button that reduces stability control intervention, allowing for more driver involvement while still providing a safety net. For those seeking complete freedom, holding the Traction Control Off button for three seconds disables all electronic aids. Automatic versions offer the same VSC Sport mode, along with a Sport/Snow mode. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and shift patterns, holding gears for longer, while Snow mode starts the car in second gear to minimize wheelspin on slippery surfaces. For controlled drifts and track days, turning everything off unlocks the FR-S’s full playful potential, while VSC Sport mode strikes a good balance for spirited driving with some electronic assistance.
After several laps, returning to the pit lane allows for a moment to appreciate the FR-S’s interior. The cabin is clearly designed with the driver in mind, prioritizing functional ergonomics. The design is straightforward and purposeful, with black plastic trim accented by leather and red inserts. Steering wheel placement, pedal spacing, and seat positioning are all optimized for enthusiastic driving.
In line with Scion’s mono-spec approach, the FR-S was offered in a single trim level. Buyers primarily chose their color and transmission. Priced under $25,000, the FR-S included features like a Pioneer sound system with USB and AUX inputs, air conditioning, power windows, and red interior accents.
Reflecting on the driving experience, it’s clear that Scion had created something truly special with the FR-S. More than just a car, it was a potential game-changer, poised to redefine the Scion brand and the entry-level sports car segment. The FR-S proves that ultimate driving enjoyment doesn’t necessitate the highest Scion FR-S horsepower or the steepest price tag. It embodies budget-friendly performance at its finest. Four laps behind the wheel are all it takes to become a believer.
