Reviewed by Susan Frissell
One of a few ‘affordable’ sports cars, the 2014 Scion FR-S ranks number one with some of the automotive press. As part of the Toyota family, reliability and safety are a given in the Scion products. Obvious competition includes the Chevrolet Camaro, Nissan 370Z, Mazda Miata MX-5 and its twin, the Subaru BRZ.
In its favor are the FR-S’ styling cues, available colors, six-speed manual transmission and fun-driving dynamics. Our test vehicle came in a ‘what’s old is new again†copper color: Hot Lava. Believe it or not, the FR-S seats four and has rear-wheel-drive. Rear seating? We didn’t try it out but suspect you have to be 5 years old or an adult with very short legs. Never mind, use it for cargo. What ‘real’ sports car has rear seats, anyway?
Not much is new for 2014. Four available versions can be had including the 2-door coupe automatic, 2-door manual, 2-door automatic Monogram and 2-door manual Monogram. Our test vehicle came in the Monogram trim level.
A 2-door coupe with manual transmission, our test vehicle carried a MSRP of $24,700, and with options that included fog lights ($490), rear spoiler ($399), all-weather mats ($90), THD Exhaust System ($1,100), a total vehicle price of $27,534. I suppose one could forego some of the options to bring the FR-S down to more affordable pricing for those young drivers wanting to get into this vehicle.
This writer prefers the ever-popular Miata MX-5 for agile handling and fun factor. The FR-S, a tad stiff for our liking, did grow on us after a few days, however. Once adjusted to its quirks, this driver felt more comfortable and began enjoying working the manual transmission.
The interior leaves a little to be desired: namely, the use of plastic materials. The seats are comfortable and form-fitting, adjust easily and bolstered sides make for a better fit for all drivers. One can’t complain about space-or the lack thereof. You don’t buy a car like the FR-S if you’re worried about having enough space. Get a backup SUV.
Cargo room is also at a premium. One can tote quite a bit. The lighted dials are a nice touch and feels sporty. A fun car to drive on most roads, the FR-S is no Camaro or Mustang when it comes to power. But that’s ok. This is a car to appeal to the young driver who wants a great looking ride. Working his/her way up to a Mustang is expected. As noted above, our test FR-S came equipped with the optional THD exhaust system, making for a great sounding growl.
Standard equipment on the FR-S includes chrome-tipped dual exhaust, color-keyed power outside mirrors, projector beam Halogen headlamps, LED taillights and center mounted stop lamp, and intermittent front wipers.
The Pioneer 6.1-inch touch-screen display audio 300-watt AM/FM/CD/HD radio, eight speakers,Aux/USB port with pod connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology. This writer was not impressed by the sound system in the FR-S and in fact, elected to play her own CD’s rather than try and figure out how it worked. The sound quality is poor and there wasn’t any XM/Sirius option.
Power door locks/mirrors/windows are all standard, as are leather-trimmed steering wheel/shift knob. Also included are cruise, A/C, rear window defogger, aluminum sport pedals, one-piece folding rear seatbacks, multi-info display and floor mats.
SPECS
MSRP: $24,700; total vehicle price $27,534, destination $795
Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder DOHC, 200 hp., 151 lb. ft. torque
Transmission: six-speed manual
Wheelbase: 101.2 in.
Height: 50.6 in.
Length: 166.7 in.
Width: 69.9 in.
Weight: 2,758 lbs.
Fuel tank capacity: 13.2 gal.
Tires: FR 215/45WR17, temporary spare
Wheels: 17×7 alloy
Warranty: Corrosion/perforation, 60 mths., Basic, 36 mths./36,000-mile; Powertrain, 60 mths./60,000-mile, Roadside Assistance (if above 24 mths/25,000-miles)
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