2013 Scion FR-S is a Sporty Coupe With Stellar Fuel Efficiency

The all-new 2013 Scion FR-S delivers a big boost in performance when it comes to the Scion brand. With a base engine that offers 200 horsepower, the FR-S is the power hungry Scion coupe many car shoppers have been waiting for. Despite this power hunger, the vehicle proves not all that fuel thirsty. Keep reading to review the specs, features and pricing of the 2013 Scion FR-S.

Styling: 2013 Scion FR-S

The Scion FR-S was a joint effort between Toyota and Subaru (the vehicle's cousin is the Subaru BRZ). One look at the Scion's exterior, and it's clear the FR-S was built for performance. The long, low hoodline allows the engine to be mounted farther back than would otherwise be possible. This provides for an excellent weight distribution and equates to above-average handling and cornering.

Inside, the FR-S continues its focus on performance. The centerpiece of the vehicle's dashboard is the large tachometer. Seating comes in the sporty style that is commonplace on sports cars twice the price of the FR-S. One downside of this performance-heavy appearance is a lack of rear seating and cargo space. Maximum trunk space is a paltry 7.0 cubic feet.

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Performance: 2013 Scion FR-S

The 2013 FR-S comes with a single engine option – a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that outputs 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque. This powerplant can be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic transmission. The automatic comes complete with paddle shifters.

In early test drives, the FR-S raced from zero to 60 mph in under seven seconds. While faster affordable sport coupes are available, the lightweight and excellent balance of the FR-S makes the vehicle a champ in the category of handling.

Partly because of the lightweight design, the FR-S manages good fuel efficiency. EPA estimates suggest 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway (28 mpg combined) with the automatic transmission. The manual transmission promises 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway (25 mpg combined).

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Safety: 2013 Scion FR-S

The Scion comes standard with antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, brake assist, front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags. The vehicle has yet to be crash tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Pricing: 2013 Scion FR-S

Most reviewers seem to agree that the Scion FR-S is a bargain when it comes to sporty performance. Base MSRP is set at $24,930. For that price, you'll get air conditioning, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, leather-trimmed steering wheel, cruise control, sport pedals, dual exhaust, power mirrors, daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth and an 8-speaker stereo system with auxiliary input and USB/iPod connectivity.

Available upgrades include mudguards, upgraded stereo and rear bumper appliqué.

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