Scion’s tuner challenge has already began but we haven’t seen or heard anything about it. Now Scion is showing off the cars from the competition ahead of 2012 SEMA Show. In addition, the brand is releasing three videos, in which the tuners describe what it feels like to be part of the challenge and why they decided to do it.
In fact, this is the eighth annual Scion Tuner Challenge. In it, three custom car builders have the chance to put their creative talents to the test in a competition to design and build the best FR-S. And the competition started three months ago given that every one of the competitors got $15 000 build budget.
The final version of the cars will be judged by independent car show judging company and the winner will take home a $10 000 grand prize. The participants are: John Toca from Chicago with Scion Carbon Stealth FR-S, Daniel Song from Orange County with Scion FR-S GT, and Chris Basselgia from Lebanon with Minty FReSh.
Take a look at the videos below so you can get the impression of the point of view of the tuners:
Scion has announced the new 2013 iQ EV, which is essentially a rebadged Toyota iQ with an electric motor. However, the iQ EV is a battery- electric four-seater city commuter car designed for car-sharing programs, in urban and campus environments.
“Toyota believes battery-electric vehicles have the potential to play a role in future mobility strategies,” commented Chris Hostetter, TMS group vice president of strategic planning.
“Up to now, cost and convenience issues have limited BEV’s appeal with a broad consumer market. Toyota developed the iQ EV specifically as a city commuter, for use in an urban environment, where driving distances are likely to be short, charging opportunities numerous, and its compact proportions beneficial.”, he added.
The 2013 Scion iQ EV is available in only Silver or nice Red finishes. The interior features black and white color scheme with metallic accents and ice-blue trim. There are also a leather steering wheel and nice upholstery for the seats, which are by the way heated. The small car also comes with an infotainment system with GPS SAT NAV.
The Scion iQ EV is powered by an electric motor with 64HP (47 kW) and 163Nm (120 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 13.4 seconds and a top speed of 125 km/h (78 mph). The car can go up to 80 km (50 miles) on a single charge, which takes three hours plugged in 240V outlet. The 12 kWh lithium-ion battery is mounted below the floor.
The iQ EV is equipped with 11 SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags including knee, side, seat cushion, front and rear curtain, and a rear window curtain airbag. The front passenger seat is equipped with an occupant detection system.
2013 iQ EV is manufactured at Toyota’s Takaoka Plant in Toyota City. Production began in September 2012.
For Marketing Cars will prepare a new special 2013 Scion FR-S for Takata Racing, who are dedicated to protecting human life. They began by developing seat belts utilizing the technology found in parachutes. Since then, they continue to develop the newest safety technology and make it available globally. This has been their objective since the beginning and they will remain committed to it.
Originally, the FR-S is powered by a 2.0 liter Subaru Boxer engine with 200HP (147 kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque.
2013 Scion FR-S can be opted with either 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The car is designed entirely to bring supreme driving pleasure and this is for sure, especially with a 53 to 47 front-to-rear weight ratio.
The tuned vehicle will come with a new supercharger kit from HKS. The FR-S for Takata Racing will make its official debut at the 2012 SEMA in Toyo Tires booth.
2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 is a vehicle which is going to be produced only in a 2 000 units and more importantly the examples of the model will be specially equipped sports coupes. The tC RS 8.0 is to be seen at dealerships later this month.
The first thing that grabs the attention around this Scion is the exclusive Absolutely Red exterior paint. The next thing that catches the eye are the contrasting gloss black side view mirrors and matching black 18-inch alloy wheels.
2013 Scion tC RS 8.0
Furthermore, the exterior become even more aggressive thanks to the unique and stylish five-piece body kit that was inspired by Troy Sumitomo of Five Axis. This one features front and rear lower valences, side skirts and a rear spoiler. The attitude of the car is emphasized through the lowering springs and an exhaust system that is integrated into the center of the rear lower valence.
Next, the interior of the tC includes sporty seats, which are dressed texturized black fabric with red stitching. The red stitching is a design element which can be seen on the leather wrapped steering wheel as well. And of course, every example of the car will carry its unique number commemorating the individuality of the model.
2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 has a starting price of $21 815 and $22 865 when equipped with a six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission respectively.
Jay Leno gets to know a Scion FR-S close and personal. Him being a renown motoring enthusiast, we get to hear his opinion about the idea behind the sports car and also there are the facts coming from Scion‘s Vice President Jack Hollis to support Leno’s view.In the video, they discuss the existing competition (the Mazda MX5), the affordability of fun nowadays, the Toyota GT legacy within the FR-S, the boxer engine and more. As an end point, the Scion proves to be as said – light, sporty, rear-wheel-drivem and accessible.It’s engine is a 2.0 liter horizontally opposed unit that produces 200 bhp and 151 lb-ft of torque. It also allows a great center of gravity which in term adds to the FR-S‘s lively road manners. It’s practical as well with 2+2 seats and a boot good for… four slick tires.In America, one can have this package of fun and sensibility for just $24,200.
2013 Scion FR-S Sports Car is now available in dealerships. This is an exceptional high-performance coupe, which is the fifth model joining the family of the brand Scion and plays an integral part in it.
First of all what FR-S will provide to its drivers is genuine sports feel. And secondly – it can be experienced at not so costly price: the price of this Scion model begins at $24 200.
The FR-S can be equipped with either six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic one which includes paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology.
A fact that you might not know is that the FR-S stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport. And the name is proven by the engine that is at the heart of the vehicle: a 2.0-liter boxer one which produces an impressive 200 horsepower (147 kW) and 151 pound-feet (205 Nm) of torque. The flat engine is mounted extremely low, giving the car a dynamically low center of gravity.
2013 Scion FR-S
Furthermore, the designers of the car made it in such way that it is quick and nimble which going into and out of corners, with dynamic maneuverability and confident handling. In addition, the Scion has low weight, which is combined with a dynamically tuned suspension setup comprising of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone system in the rear.
A standard feature here is the Torsen® limited-slip differential, apportioning power to the rear wheels with precision and immediacy. The FR-S runs on lightweight 17×7-inch alloy wheels and ventilated disc brakes.
The interior is also performance focused. It includes a 2+2 seating. The front seats are comfortable and assertive, and include deep bolsters. They are also mounted extremely low, while the rear seat folds down flat, creating flexible space.
2013 Scion FR-S Speedster is the custom show car which was the Grand Marshal Vehicle for 38th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach IZOD IndyCar Series Race.
2013 Scion FR-S Speedster just debuted as Toyota Racing debuted at the 38th annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach on 13th of April.
The unique vehicle was showcased on site in the Lifestyle Expo lobby. The car was piloted by race car driver and 2012 Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame inductee Scott Pruett.
Following the Grand Prix, the Scion FR-S Speedster will be available for select appearances.
This vehicle is a rear-wheel-drive sports car with excellently balanced performance and handling, compelling style, flexible utility and surprising fuel economy.
This Scion proudly bears the number 86 on its door panels and rear wing. It also includes Toyota Racing’s iconic paint scheme.
As you can see, the exterior modifications feature: Cartel Traditional Signature Series Chop Top, modified front fenders and hood, custom-molded rear deck with hand-made sheet metal speed blisters, custom metal fabrication interior and exterior panels, APR Performance Custom 61” carbon fiber wing, and custom formed and cut glass front windshield and side door glass.
On the other hand the interior modifications include: custom-shaped metal door panels with carbon fiber insets, carbon rear panel false wall, modified dash center drive gauge cluster and carbon switch panel, and red and white accented seats, dash and center console.
2013 Scion FR-S Speedster
Scion FR-S Speedster Specifications:
Length 166.7 in.
Width 69.9 in.
Height 40.2 in.
Wheelbase 101.2 in.
Powertrain:
Flat 2.0L boxer engine
6-speed transmission
Maximum output 200hp @ 7,000 rpm
Maximum torque 151 lb.-ft @ 6,600 rpm
TORCO Synthetic SR-5 Racing Oil
ACT Clutch
GReddy SP Elite Exhaust System
Chassis / Suspension:
KW Suspensions Clubsport Coilovers (independent rebound and compression adjustability)
Wilwood SUPERLITE 6-piston radial mount calipers in custom red on 13”
We have talked about this before – it’s a Scion iQ, custom made by SR Auto. This one however is a bit different, more complete, a finished product in fact. The project is called “Pryzm” and rightfully so. Being so boxy, the only thing that stands between it and a prism is that the latter does not roll on 17-inch Sparko wheels.
The ride is lower and a Premier 4509 kit decorates the exterior. That means that the front and rearbumpers, side skirts, front fenders, the hood, and the roof spoiler are all new. (in Scion terms that is pretty much the whole body)
It would seem however, that more effort has been made for the innterior. Although stock, the seats have had their foam trimmed in a way so that they now have an elevated side bolster. The upholstery boasts a red diamond stitched pattern over black suede. The rest is black leather with again red stitching. Even the door panels bare the a similar design.
There’s no word on any performance tweaks so one should expect the standard 1.3 liter petrol that kicks in 95 hp and 123 Nm of torque. The Pryzm iQ has already made its debut at the Open Road Scion even last week – it’s a sort of a Scion fans and owners convention that offers a forum on talks about new, old and tuned models of various kinds of Scions.
Scion has just announced pricing for the 2013 Scion FR-S compact rear-wheel drive sports car, which start at $24 200 (MSRP). The vehicle is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. However, it has a version that comes with a six-speed automatic transmission that features paddle shifters and rev-match technology and is priced at $25 300. The Scion will go on sale this spring.
The FR-S acronym in the name of the car stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport. It delivers an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports car with very well balanced performance and handling, compelling style, flexible utility and surprising fuel efficiency. Moreover, the vehcle is designed around the core goal of achieving “Pure Balance”, which begins with the strategic use of the world’s only flat boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration. The engine has a compact size and flat shape, which allows to be mounted extremely low, giving the car a dynamically favorable front-to-rear weight ratio of 53:47 and a low center of gravity. Furthermore, the Scion has a 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, which comes as a result of a joint development between Toyota and Subaru. In this work of collaboration Subaru’s newly developed, horizontally opposed engine will be combined with Toyota’s cutting edge D-4S injection system that incorporates both direct and port injection. The D-4S system, partnered with a high 12.5:1 compression ratio, results in 200 hp (147 kW) and 151 pound-feet of torque. This engine is mated to a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual offers quick, precise shifts with a short-throw; while the automatic features aggressive up shifts and sporty rev-matched down shifts that are initiated by steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Power is transferred to the pavement via a standard Torsen® limited-slip differential.
2013 Scion FR-S
In addition to this, the “Pure Balance” idea is further manifested by the FR-S’s lightweight design and compact size. This unique combination allows the car to be quick and with h dynamic high maneuverability, and confident handling. The coupe’s weight is minimized by using a lightweight aluminum hood, a solid roof, and by featuring a trunk design instead of a hatchback. This low weight is matched with a dynamically tuned suspension setup consisting of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone system in the rear. In addition, lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels and ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four corners.
The exterior of the car is really powerful: it reveals a hood and roof-line that is remarkably sleek and low, giving it an aerodynamic shape that channels air cleanly over to the top. In addition, the aggressive front fenders protrude upward and boast the iconic ‘86’ piston emblem. The rear fascia sits low and wide, with aerodynamic lower treatments that surround the sporty dual exhaust system. Of course, a today model can’t go without LEDs. Here they illuminate the edgy taillights, while center-mounted backup lights finish the muscular design. The 2013 Scion FR-S will be available in seven colors including Raven, Asphalt, Hot Lava, Argento, Ultramarine, Firestorm and Whiteout.
What about the interior: the FR-S’s interior includes a 2+2 seating configuration. The front seats include deep bolsters, they are mounted extremely low, while the rear seat folds down flat, creating flexible space. The large center-mounted tachometer is the focus of the three-gauge cluster and features a programmable shift-indicator. Here, the speed is being monitored by both digital and analog gauges. The 2013 FR-S features a sporty leather-trimmed steering wheel with tilt and telescopic adjustment. As a standard in the vehicle are included eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/USB 300-watt maximum output Pioneer™ audio system, HD Radio™ technology, Bluetooth® connectivity.
Furthermore, regarding thee safety features, the FR-S comes with six airbags, including dual-stage advanced driver- and front-passenger airbags, front-seat-mounted airbags and side-curtain airbags. In addition, it also includes the Star Safety System with Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist (BA), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).
The J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Studyis an annual research based on x amount of problems per 100 vehicles, reported by real life car owners. The lower the x, the higher the rank. It is common knowledge that if today one wants a car that can survive an apocalypse, Toyota is the brand for you. But this year, not only the Toyotas dominate the survey, but the whole Toyota group.
Toyota cars alone have four models ranked as the most dependable non-premium vehicles. The Corolla is ranked second behind The Prius in the compact-car segment while Corolla, Camry and Highlander (Kluger) are in the top three of their segments.
Lexus and Scion (Toyota subsidiaries) also preformed exceptionally well by each scoring two top rankings. Last year it was Lexus that led the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study by winning the most awards than any other premium brand.
Other highlights coming from awards include the 11 awards that got swept by both Toyota and Lexus at the ‘IntelliChoice’ Best Overall Values of the Year ranking. Fifteen Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles were named 2012 “Top Safety Picks” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety – Camry, Corolla, Highlander (Kluger), Prius, Prius v, Yaris and Scion xB. Also the 2012 Camry, Camry Hybrid and Prius earned the maximum five stars for overall safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. All that portfolio of awards is just a drop in the sea of Toyota‘s achievements. We just hope they have a big enough trophy cabinet at the factory.
Interestingly enough, another custom company has undertaken a Toyota IQ project. Well, when we say Toyota we actually mean a Scion. And, yes, last week was an Aston Martin but this is all just badge talk. So today we have the SR autogroup made IQ – sporty, aggressive and with big wheels.
For a body kit, SR have chosen Fiveaxis components. They account for the front lip, side skirts, rear lip, and the roof spoiler. But a body kit does not look complete if it isn’t almost grinding on the ground. So that is why we also have a set of Tein lowering springs which, according to SR, do not in any way compromise performance and ride comfort.
An overall custom look is achieved only when we add four matte black 17-inchSparco wheels held by titanium red lug bolts. We are not sure why they have to be titanium but they look great as a contrasting agent. Does it work for you?
Everything about this year’s North American International Auto Show will spin around small vehicles. As the population grows big and hence the customers of vehicles too, there is obviously the tendency of making more downsized automobiles. The North American International Auto Show will take place next week in Detroit. In addition, there will also be a premiere of the automotive world’s most eagerly anticipated new vehicle. The North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week will also be full of luxury and innovation. Another important highlight is that there will be a huge “invasion” of hybrid vehicles as automakers compete to boost fuel economy. The North American International Auto Show 2012 is undeniably where the global automotive community comes together to catch up on the latest news and events.
In short this is what we are going to see just in few days:
Strongly anticipated at this Auto Show is the Acura brand. First, there will be presented a brand new concept called Acura NSX. This is a high-performance hybrid with a V-6 engine mated to a lithium ion battery pack. It will be developed and expected on the market in three years. Speaking about the immediate future there is the 2012 and 2013 Acura ILX Sedan, and also the redesigned 2013 RDXCompact Crossover, which will be powered by a V-6 replacing a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.From Audi we expect to see a refreshed model of a small sporty sedan and a crossover concept. The next brand with a downsized automobile is Buick, which will reveal a newsmall crossover, called 2013 Buick Encore. From Cadillac we expect the ATS Sedan, which, as promised will be launched in the second half of this year. Chevrolet will present a sporty RS modification of the Sonic Subcompact with a new front image and grille, and a six-speed manual included. In addition we are going to see two concept vehicles from Chevrolet. Dodge will thrill us with the new 2013 Dodge Dart with a lot of powertrain options and Dodge Charger styling cues. The Dart will be at dealerships in the first half of this year. Ford brand will present at the NAIASits renewed version of 2013 Fusion which now is with smoother lines, has an engines with direct injection and turbochargers, and a hybrid. Honda will redesign its Accord model in the middle of the year and will also show a new Accord Coupe Concept. This will be a great show for the brand Hyundai which will unveil the turbocharged four-cylinder Veloster. Another preview will be made with a 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe which has now a new grille and front fascia and a brand new interior. From Lexus we expect to see the LF-LC Coupe Concept and we also expect to get the answer whether this vehicle will be hybrid or not. Lincolnwill appear with a concept of the new generation MKZ Sedan. A lot of success is going to be expected again from the brand Mercedes-Benz. First of all there will be a presentation of the redesigned 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, which is now longer and lighter than the previous model and has a new all-aluminum body. In addition the SL550 will be powered by a new 4.6-liter direct-injection V-8. Furthermore the luxury brand will present two E-Class Hybrids: the E400 Hybrid Sedan and the E300 BlueTec Hybrid. We can’t continue without mentioning the MINI brand which will “show-off” with their 2012 Roadster which will be in dealerships in February. NissanPathfinder Concept will be previewed by Nissan which will also show an electric version of the NV200. The luxury of Porsche will be presented by the 911 Carrera and Carrera S models which will go on sale in few months. Scion is a Toyotasub-brand which will show a new model of FR-S Coupe. The smallest of all small cars – Smart, will exhibit a two-seat electric pickup concept called the Smart For-Us. The Toyotabrand of course will compete with a plug-in hybrid concept called the NS4. In addition it will also show the production version of the 2012 Prius C Hatchback. Another European car – Volkswagen will preview a hybrid, called 2013 Jetta Hybrid. And at last the Swedish brand Volvo has prepared for us a surprise with a new Hybrid concept will be firstly revealed at the North American International Auto Show.
To sum up, at the NAIAS we expect to see these production vehicles: 2012/2013 Acura ILX sedan, 2013 Acura RDX Crossover, 2013 Buick Encore Crossover, 2013 Cadillac ATS Sedan, 2013 Dodge Dart Compact, 2013 Ford Fusion, 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, 2013 Mercedes E-Class Hybrids, 2012 Mini Roadster, 2012 Toyota Prius C Hatchback; and these Concepts: Acura NSX, Audi crossover, Honda Accord Coupe, Lexus LF-LC Coupe, Lincoln MKZ Sedan, Nissan Pathfinder, Scion FR-S Coupe, Smart For-Us Pickup, Toyota NS4 Hybrid, Volvo hybrid. All this makes us eager to expect what will happen next week! Stay tuned!
Scion’s tuner challenge has already began but we haven’t seen or heard anything about it. Now Scion is showing off the cars from the competition ahead of 2012 SEMA Show. In addition, the brand is releasing three videos, in which the tuners describe what it feels like to be part of the challenge and why they decided to do it.
2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 is a vehicle which is going to be produced only in a 2 000 units and more importantly the examples of the model will be specially equipped sports coupes. The tC RS 8.0 is to be seen at dealerships later this month.
Jay Leno gets to know a 
2013 Scion FR-S Sports Car is now available in dealerships. This is an exceptional high-performance coupe, which is the fifth model joining the family of the brand 
We have talked about this 
The 
Interestingly enough, another custom company has undertaken a Toyota IQ project. Well, when we say Toyota we actually mean a Scion. And, yes, last week was an 
