Scion FR-S Review: Specs, Features of this 2016 Modern Classic Car

Apr 02, 2024 12:20 AM EDT

2013 SCION FR-S RED — (Photo : PEXELS/ Tnarg)

One of the more reasonably priced sports cars on the market, the 2016 Scion FR-S is well-known for both its affordable pricing and its remarkable driving capabilities. With the FR-S, Toyota entered the compact rear-wheel drive two-door vehicle market with much fanfare, bringing back the essence of sport compact styling.

Scion FR-S Closer Look

Highlighted in a Car and Driver review, the manual transmission of the vehicle offers a robust and straightforward sensation, contrasting with the swift and responsive nature of the paddle-shift automatic. Despite the compact and somewhat plasticky interior, the FR-S remains highly agile, appealing to passionate driving enthusiasts.

According to Edmunds, the 2016 Scion FR-S is distinguished by its sleek appearance and rear-wheel drive setup. Thus, making it a highly attractive and accessible option in the world of small performance cars.

Within the U.S. automotive market, the category of small sport coupes may be niche, but for individuals seeking nimble handling, lively performance, and appealing aesthetics in a compact form without the inclusion of four doors, the updated 2016 FR-S from Scion stands out as a top contender.

Offering a stripped-down approach, this lightweight sports car features rear-wheel drive, commendable balance, and an attractive price point. The driving experience serves as the primary allure of the 2016 Scion FR-S, a model developed in collaboration with Subaru, which presents a similar offering with the Subaru BRZ.

The FR-S effortlessly navigates twists and turns with agility while maintaining a user-friendly nature that differs from the potentially daunting driving dynamics of many high-powered rear-wheel-drive coupes. Additionally, the FR-S achieves respectable fuel efficiency, boasting 28 mpg combined with the six-speed automatic transmission and 25 mpg with the six-speed manual.

More About Scion FR-S

In a review by Motor1.com, insights on the 2016 Scion FR-S were revealed. While Toyota fulfilled several expectations, the vehicle's debut carried a hint of dissatisfaction. Collaborating with Subaru, the Scion FR-S and its BRZ counterpart emerged with boxer-four powertrains, somewhat diminishing their allure compared to the potential appeal of Toyota's proprietary inline engines.

The report by Motor1.com, it was noted that the FR-S's traction control and stability management systems exhibited rapid response by engaging the rear brake promptly in damp conditions. This action helped control instances of lift-off or power-on oversteer, as well as facilitated the car's rotation into a corner when faced with understeer. Initially, the system may feel restrictive and even challenging for drivers.

Challenges

Positioned in the more affordable segment of the market, the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ siblings have maintained their lower price range. Despite receiving accolades like the 10Best recognition upon their 2013 launch, sales tapered off after the initial surge of enthusiast interest subsided.'

Examining the 2016 FR-S, Car and Driver delve into the incremental enhancements made by Toyota to ensure its competitiveness among buyers with a penchant for sporty driving experiences. The updates to the Scion for the 2016 model year are subtle, primarily aiming to enhance the once lackluster interior by introducing silver accents on various elements like the steering wheel, console, dashboard, and doors. Additionally, new additions include a standard backup camera and a Pioneer infotainment system equipped with a seven-inch touch-screen display.

Thankfully, and perhaps most crucially, the primary controls of the FR-S retain their optimal layout, providing ample feedback that enhances the driving experience, particularly for those seeking spirited driving dynamics.