Built By Passion, Not By Commitee 2013 Scion FR-S

Written by: Kirby Quinto
Photos by: Kirby Quinto & 742 Media


Scion has been raving about the new 2013 Scion FR-S for a few years now.  Fan base on this car grew by the thousands.  With the First 86’s success, these FR-S fanatics will be the first to own the car and seen on the streets.  At last week’s media press release, I was one of the few privileged to drive the new 2013 Scion FR-S.  This event took place in Las Vegas, NV.  

Right off the bat, I knew this car will take Scion into the new dimension as VP Jack Hollis stated in our press briefing.  The FR-S has that attitude that “I will own the road.”  In Jack Hollis’ breakdown of the FRS being “Freakin Really Sweet”.  My ride partner and good friend Jeff Maldonado of 742 Media jumped into a black FR-S in automatic from the hotel and took off.  Took off we did.  


To get a good road experience with the FR-S we took a slight detour and hit Red Rock Canyon National Park for some picture time.

A few hours later we get to our destination, Spring Mountain Motorsports Park in Pharump.  This was where we test TEST the FRS capabilities.  When we arrived in the parking lot, my jaw dropped when I saw Jack Hollis' personal FR-S on display.

Scion had 3 test courses for us to challenge the FR-S.  They were: drifting, autocross, and road course.  When I heard the agenda, Jeff and I had a smile from ear to ear.  This was a dream come true!  With that said, it shows how much confidence Scion has in the FR-S.  Our first test was the autocross.  The FR-S handles exceptionally well!  With driving the automatic in “sport mode”, the FR-S gripped the sharp turns and had a remarkable acceleration.  

Our next test was the drift experience on the skid pad and that was lead by Mr Scion Drift master Ken Gushi.  I didn’t want to embarrass our host so I refrained from attempting to drift.  LOL!  So I just did a ride along with Ken.  This guy was holding a conversation with me and drifting like it was nothing.  Skills!  

Now in my personal opinion the best part of the day was the road course.  The track layout was about 1.9 miles.  At this course we were able to drive either the automatic or manual transmissions.  Majority of my drive was based on the automatic transmission and only once on a manual.  The FR-S accelerates well after turns, braking was excellent, FR-S did not break loose unless well of course with traction control off, and very well balanced.  

My overall rating for the 2013 Scion FR-S is 2 thumbs up and add 2 big toes to it.  With the starting price just shy of $25k, this is the best bang for the buck overall.  The 2013 FR-S lives up to its hype and I am now a true believer of this car.  With all the fans that were a part of the First 86 and pre order buyers, you will not be disappointed.  Look out for the 2013 Scion FR-S late June.  Just be aware that there is a long list so I would suggest to get with your nearest Scion dealer and get with the program.  


Thank you Scion for allowing Scionlife.com and Alpha SQUAD to be a part of this event.  The FR-S is amazing!

Personal Notes:

Engine:
- FA 2.0 4 cylinder boxer engine naturally aspirated
-200 HP @ 7000 & 151 ft lbs torque
-Redline at 7400 rpm

(Planned Accessories)
- Rear spoiler, fog lights, TRD (intake, lowering springs, air filter, front strut bar, sway bar, brake kit, and pads)
-Scion Optimize Accessories: OEM Audio + & 5 Axis Kit


For other features and full specs, please visit http://www.scion.com/

Links:
Scion:  http://www.scion.com/
Scionlife:  http://www.scionlife.com/
742 Marketing/Media: http://www.facebook.com/#!/742marketing
Scion Racing: http://www.scionracing.com/