The 200-hp Scion FR-S is one of the best options on the market for a sharp, affordable sports car. A little extra flair and performance couldn't hurt, however. The race-inspired Release Series 1.0 limited edition FR-S offers a variety of body and equipment upgrades while still pricing in under $30K before delivery fee.
The FR-S Release Series 1.0 appeared at the New York Auto Show earlier this year and began arriving at dealerships this week. The limited edition package includes a Toyota Racing Development (TRD) quad tip exhaust, TRD lowering springs, and an aerodynamics kit with custom rear spoiler and side fender garnish. The car lights up the road with a set of HID headlamps and LED daytime running lamps. A splash of bright yellow "Yuzu" paint gives it an eye-popping look.
The TRD upgrades continue inside with a TRD steering wheel, shift knob and cargo mat. It also has patterned sport seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and smart key entry with push-button start. The numbered aluminum shifter surround plate distinguishes each Release Series 1.0 from the 1,499 others.
Each of the 1,500 FR-S Release Series 1.0 models starts at US$29,990 with six-speed manual transmission or $31,090 with six-speed automatic. Both prices are before the $770 delivery, processing and handling fee.
The video below provides a closer look at each detail of the Release Series 1.0 package.
Source: Scion
So basically the tC makes at least as much HP up till around 6k RPM and more torque overall. It's base price is also about $5,500 less.
The couple reviews I read on the FR-S were mostly in agreement that it's kind of underpowered for a sports car and the 1.0 adds a lot of aesthetics without boosting the base power.
For the $30,000 price tag you are in range of the better looking 332 hp Nissan 370Z. I'd say go with a tC instead if HP is not an issue but the new rear roof line really kills the look of the new version.
The tC was a pretty under rated car because it came with a lot of standard features for the price. The new model fixes rear passenger headroom issue at the sacrifice of being too ugly to drive around.
FR-S (like 370Z) is purely a 2 seater.
Jeff, You seem to be missing the point of this car. It's rear wheal drive unlike your FWD Prelude. The dynamics are completely different. This is built for nimble handling that attempts to find a balance between speed and overstear. Also, making it a convertible will add weight and decrease rigidity. I suspect much of the inherent fun of the design will be lost.
All that said, this thing needs about 300hp, and to lose the stupid low rolling resistance prius tires. Until then, I have no interest.