The affordable driver's car is back

Back behind the wheel after our first drive several months back in Japan and we’re learning more about the Scion FR-S.

On the tight and technical Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch 1.5 mile loop it’s the faster corners that really emphasize just how light the car is. Having recently driven the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe on the same course, the differences between these two comparable rear-drive sports cars becomes more obvious.

A LIGHTNESS YOU CAN FEEL

Weighing in at just 2,758 lbs the FR-S is a massive 604 lbs lighter than the Hyundai, something you really feel when sliding through the fast corner onto the front straight. With plenty of speed heading into the turn you expect the FR-S to track out to the limits of the wide front straight, but it doesn’t. With so little mass, it stays tucked in; an immediate sign that more corner entry speed is possible.

That small lesson is just one example of what the Scion FR-S is like to drive as a whole. It’s balanced and neutral, making for an excellent track training tool. With a short wheelbase and direct steering it lets you know just

... [Read More]

Subaru teased the world with the BRZ STI concept at the LA Auto Show last year, and it now appears as though the automaker will live up to expectations, delivering a high-performance version of its new sports car.

In a recent interview, Subaru global marketing boss Atoshi Atake admitted as much, commenting that the company has been inundated with requests for a more powerful model. "Let me say this we will certainly satisfy our customers," said Atanke frankly. "We are already working on a faster version."

As a concept, the BRZ STI was outfitted with a custom aero package, larger 18-inch wheels, high-performance tires, a massive rear spoiler and even a carbon fiber roof to further reduce the car's already low center of gravity. The show car, however, continued to use the direct-injection 2.0-liter boxer 4-cyldiner with 197 hp.

While past brand history would indicate an STI version would use a turbo, that's not the case here, with Atake saying that basic modifications to the intake and exhaust, as well as a higher rev limit could up power. In fact, Atake swore off a BRZ Turbo commenting that, "we want to keep turbocharging separate. It is for models like the WRX STI."

In addition, Atake hinted that the BRZ could get a roadster variant, a real likelihood considering GT 86 lead engineer Tetsuya... [Read More]

When it hits Scion dealers in June, the 2013 FR-S will be priced from $24,200 according to a leaked dealer document. That puts it just $50 under the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

Included in that price will be the 200 hp 2.0-liter direct-injection boxer 4-cylinder mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Those wishing for the surprisingly good six-speed automatic will have to add $1,100 more for a total of $25,300.

The FR-S will be available in seven colors: Raven, Asphalt, Hot Lava, Argento, Ultramarine, Firestorm and Whiteout.

For more on the Scion’s new rear-drive sports car, read AutoGuide’s 2013 Scion FR-S First Drive Here, or watch out video below.

Read the full story at AutoGuide.com