The 2013 Scion FR-S

2013 Scion FR-S. Photos courtesy of Scion.

Japanese automaker Toyota has jumped back into the business of making fun cars with the Scion FR-S. The car is a small, lightweight and features rear-wheel-drive. Making it even more of a joy to drive, the car’s weight is fairly evenly distributed and handling is tight with the car overall providing a fun driving experience.

The 2013 Scion FR-S features a 2.0 liter 4 cylinder boxer engine, meaning it lays low and on its side so the car’s weight is closer to the road’s surface for improved handling characteristics. Maximum power output is 200 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 151 pound-foot of torque at 6,600 RPM. Buyers can choose between either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Cars with the automatic transmissions come with paddle shifters mounted to the steering wheel and rev-matched downshifts. Zero to sixty acceleration of the FR-S with a manual transmission has been measured at 6.6 seconds.

The interior of the FR-S provides a no-frills performance experience. Instead of adjustable lighting features and other chic features found on other Scions, the FR-S comes with a large tachometer in the middle of the instrument cluster, along with other easy-to-read gauges. The driver and front passenger both sit in race-inspired seats that have large side bolsters designed to hold occupants in place during hard cornering maneuvers. Other interior features include air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows and locks, cruise control, eight-speaker sound system, Bluetooth connectivity and an auxiliary input jack for the stereo.

On the exterior the Scion FR-S comes with sleek styling that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels and stylish rear lights. Buyers can opt for dealer-installed suspension and engine performance parts as well as fog lights.

Overall the FR-S marks a return to a true driver’s car. The interior is not luxurious, but is instead focused on letting the driver focus on squeezing as much performance out of the car as possible. Performance enthusiasts will find joy in the car’s exceptional handling abilities and punchy acceleration, both on the track and any winding country road.