ARV VOSS Updated 01:00 p.m., Friday, July 27, 2012
The vehicles in question are the Scion FR-S and the Subaru BRZ, which are nearly identical in terms of design and mechanical composition. The two cars differ only in the front and rear fascia treatment, headlamp styling and, of course, badging.
We'll deal with the 2013 Scion FR-S here - the fifth model to join the Scion family, with power delivered to the rear-wheels through either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with Sport mode, paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management. The engine is an FA2O 2.0-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, flat horizontally-opposed "boxer" four-cylinder with D4-S (Direct and Sequential Port Injection) that cranks out 200 hp at 7,000 rpm, while developing 151 lb ft of torque in a range from 6,400-6,600 rpm. Premium fuel is required.
Pricing for the FR-S (which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport) will begin at $24,200 when equipped with the six-speed manual gearbox, $25,300 when fitted with the six-speed automatic transmission.
The FR-S was designed around the core goal of achieving "pure balance," beginning with the strategic employment of the world's only flat boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration.
Despite its powerful 100 hp per liter, the FR-S yields an estimated EPA rating of 34 mpg on the highway with the automatic transmission and 30 mpg with the manual gearbox. The FR-S tips the scale at 2,758 lbs with the manual and 2,806 with the automatic. Weight is kept to a minimum by the implementation of an aluminum hood, a solid roof and a trunk, rather than a hatch.
Experienced performance driving enthusiasts will appreciate the vehicle stability control and traction control systems, which may be set in a combination of five configurations.
A low, sleek roofline directs airflow cleanly and efficiently over the gracefully curved cabin. The stance is low, and the face delivers a menacing competitive look with its sharp, expressive lines and forms.
The interior features 2+2 seating with deeply bolstered, supportive and comfortable seats up front, with a rear seatback that folds flat for added versatility and functionality. A large, center-mounted tachometer is the focal point of the three-gauge main cluster that also features a programmable shift indicator, allowing the driver to set rev limits in 100-rpm units, beginning at 2,000 rpm.
FR-S is equipped with a host of standard safety features, including: six airbags, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Vehicle Stability control, Brake Assist, ABS and Smart Stop Technology.
My test pre-production 2013 Scion FR-S sport coupe's base sticker read $23,405 and reached $24,135 after adding the destination and handling fees.
SUMMARY: Considering the starting price of the 2013 Scion FR-S sports coupe, and its performance credentials, it serves up a most attractive and appealing design, with harmonious and well-balanced lines and contours. It evokes a bold, athletic image, even when parked.
Acceleration is impressive, as are the precise handling characteristics. The ride quality is comfortable, but not without meaningful feedback.
To put this latest model Scion through its paces, journalists from across the country were afforded the opportunity to pilot the FR-S over both a challenging road course and timed autocross venue at the private Springhill Motorsports Park race facility located in Pahrump, Nev., just over 70 miles outside Las Vegas.
With a starting price under $25,000, the all-new FR-S delivers fun in spades under normal driving conditions or on a racecourse. Add in Scion's three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with Scion's complimentary Scion Service Boost program, and the choice of a FR-S is a no-brainer for the 2+2 sports coupe set.
Base Price: $23,405
Price as Tested: $24,135
Engine/ Transmission: 2.0-liter DOHC, 16-valve naturally aspirated 200 horsepower four-cylinder flat-opposed "Boxer" engine with dual variable valve timing and D-4S direct port fuel injection / Six-speed manual or six-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Wheelbase: 101.2 inches
Length: 166.7 inches
Width: 69.9 inches
Height: 50.6 inches
Curb Weight: 2,758 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 13.2 gallons
Fuel Consumption: 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway"
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