Detroit Update - Scion Introduces Scion FR-S Formula DRIFT Car, First 86 Contest

Scion chose to focus its Detroit auto show presence on the Scion FR-S. The Scion FR-S compact coupe was officially unveiled back in November, but alongside the slow rollout of the Scion iQ subcompact it remains a hot topic for the entry-level automaker. In addition to having the production edition of the Scion FR-S on stage, Scion also debuted a 600 horsepower edition of the two-door automobile designed in partnership with GReddy to compete in the Formula DRIFT series. The FR-S race car uses a combination of Scion and GReddy parts in order to squeeze out three times the stock power level as well as offer the kind of suspension setup necessary to execute flawless drifts.

It was also announced that the 2013 Scion FR-S would benefit from the first installation of the brand's new BeSpoke infotainment system. BeSpoke relies on Pioneer technology in order to offer increased connectivity in the FR-S for drivers looking to link their portable devices to the vehicle's multimedia system.

The final surprise in store for Scion fans in Detroit was that the company will be implementing a special program for early adopters of the compact coupe. Called the "First 86" program in reference to the AE86 Toyota Corolla that was one of the spiritual predecessors of the lightweight sports car, it will take the form of a contest setup to award the initial 86 production FR-S models to lucky winners. Not only will those who come out ahead in the First 86 program get dibs on the very earliest FR-S coupes before anyone else, but according to Scion vice president Jack Hollis the automaker will also be giving out special gifts and potentially a unique delivery experience with each car. Interested parties will have eight hours, six minutes to enter the contest on January 12, 2012 at the www.ScionFirst86.com website.