2013 Scion FR-S Buyer's Guide

This sporty little twin of the Subaru BRZ offers the same lightweight, fun-to-drive platform, but in a slightly more spartan and budget-friendly package. The combination of affordability and sports car-like driving proved successful in the 2013 Scion…

This sporty little twin of the Subaru BRZ offers the same lightweight, fun-to-drive platform, but in a slightly more spartan and budget-friendly package. The 2013 Scion FR-S successfully combines affordability with sporty driving, giving those who may not have the budget for better driving a chance to blast around town in a flashy, stylish car. product of engineering genius.

Main advantages

This model is rife with standards with power windows, locks and mirrors, Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, cruise, traction control, and Smart Stop (this cuts off power to the engine if the brake and gas are accidentally pressed at the same time). Optional upgrades include a 5.8-inch touchscreen with navigation, an upgraded audio system, 18-inch wheels, lowered springs and a rear spoiler.

Changes in 2013 year

FR-S is a completely new offering for 2013; the product of a joint effort between Subaru and Toyota.

What we like

Superb handling and sleek, sporty looks make for a fashionable and enjoyable ride. The Torsen limited-slip differential not only delivers improved cornering on your daily commute, but also allows you to play drifting on the closed track. As a bonus, there are Subaru logos tucked away all over, suggesting a bit of fun on the road, like a little treasure hunt.

What worries us

Rear seats - although they exist - do not provide comfort to any self-respecting adult. If you like more power, you'll get more from a Mustang or Hyundai Genesis. The stock audio system is less than intuitive, and as you'd expect, you'll only get just under 7 cubic feet of grocery space.

Available Models

The FR-S is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The rear wheels are guided and get power from a 2.0-liter boxer 4-cylinder engine. It's 151 lb-ft. of torque, 200 hp, and the FR-S gets 22/30 mpg in manual mode and 25/34 mpg in automatic mode.

Key Feedback

There were two recalls of the 2013 Scion FR-S. One, released in July 2012, contains misinformation in the owner's manual that incorrectly states the classification and operation of the front passenger's side restraint system. This could result in injury in the event of an accident. Another, released in May 2013, involved mislabeling of weight limits. In both cases, the company notified the owners and offered the correct instructions and labels.

General questions

The most common complaints from owners are related to grinding of gears in manual transmissions when switching between first and second, as well as moisture ingress into the rear light assembly.