Scion's New FR-S Sports Car Speeds onto Showroom Floors

BALTIMORE, MD. (06/12/2012)(readMedia)-- Whether they are drifting at the track or blasting around town on weekends, there is no shortage of driving aficionados in America, and Scion's all-new FR-S sports car offers an authentic, affordable option to a new generation of speed-lovers. Now on sale at dealerships nationwide, the rear-wheel-drive 2013 Scion FR-S uses a smart, lightweight design and an advanced powertrain to provide auto enthusiast-worthy fun starting at around $25,000.

Serving as the halo car for the Scion brand, the aggressively styled FR-S weighs around 2,800 pounds, which means the four-passenger coupe can make the most out of the 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque coming from its 2.0-liter boxer engine. That powerplant is also mounted close to the ground to create a very low center of gravity that rivals some exotic cars. Depending on preference, drivers can choose between the standard six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology.

"The FR-S is Scion's first venture into the pure sports car realm, and the model naturally showcases the brand's affordability and youthful styling," said Randy Smith, sales manager of Russel Scion, a Scion dealer in Baltimore, Md. "Whether you're looking to hit the track or just want a fun car that carves up winding back roads, it can be hard to find the right ride without a big investment. The Scion FR-S is the answer to that problem."

The 2013 Scion FR-S refines its race-ready prowess even further thanks to a precisely tuned suspension consisting of MacPherson struts in the front and a double-wishbone arrangement in the back. Meanwhile, a standard Torsen limited-slip differential ensures all 200 horsepower makes its way to the ground. Inside, the FR-S continues its performance-centric theme, featuring deeply bolstered front seats to hold occupants in place through the corners, while the gauge cluster is dominated by a large, silver-faced tachometer complete with shift light.

While producing 100 horsepower-per-liter with its lightweight engine, the Scion FR-S is also able to return impressive fuel economy. Models with an automatic transmission achieve up to 34 mpg on the highway, while those equipped with the manual gearbox net up to 30 mpg during freeway driving. FR-S buyers also get additional value in the form of standard features, with a leather-trimmed steering wheel, a 300-watt Pioneer audio system and Bluetooth connectivity all included.

Though FR-S owners are just getting to know their new ride, another sporty Scion, the tC, was recently recognized for providing high levels of satisfaction to its buyers. Autobytel and AutoPacfic named the 2012 Scion tC the Top Rated Sporty Car in their 2012 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards after surveying roughly 75,000 owners of 2012-model-year vehicles. In its category, the Scion tC topped the likes of the Hyundai Veloster, Chevy Camaro, Dodge Charger and Ford Mustang when it came to pleasing owners.

"In a sense, the tC has paved the way for the FR-S, because it took Scion's styling to a sportier level and received a similar mix of power and efficiency when it was redesigned for the 2011 model year," added Smith. "Though the tC may appeal more to everyday commuters and the FR-S more to dedicated driving enthusiasts, we do expect to see some crossover between the two models among buyers."

About Russel Scion:

For years, Maryland Scion shoppers have trusted the dedicated and knowledgeable team at Russel Scion to deliver unparalleled sales and service experiences. Their Baltimore Scion dealership offers an extensive inventory of new and pre-owned Scion vehicles that can be browsed in a no-hassle shopping environment. Meanwhile, Russel Scion's service and parts department helps customers long after each sale to ensure that they can enjoy their Scion for years to come. View their inventory online at www.russelscion.com, visit their dealership at 6324 Baltimore National Pike or contact their team by phone at 410-788-8400. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarylandToyota.