The long wait is finally over. The 2013 Scion FR-S was introduced to Scion dealers last June 1st. Review writers were quick to point out that the FR-S is not just a run-of-the mill compact car with modified underpinnings. The 2013 Scion FR-S, along with its twins the Subaru BRZ and the Toyota 86, were developed to bring back the joy of driving.

Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S

For the North American market, the car will carry the Scion badge, along with equally-affordable Scion vehicles such as the Scion tC and Scion xB. It is also sold under the Subaru badge, officially dubbed the 2013 Subaru BRZ. Europe and the rest of Asia will get the Toyota GT86.

Pricing

The 2013 Scion FR-S starts at $24,955 with the six-speed manual transmission. Those who don’t want to shift their own gears can choose the six-speed automatic version starting at around $26,005. The 2013 Subaru BRZ starts at $25,495 for the Premium trim.

For the price, buyers of the 2013 Scion FR-S and 2013 Subaru BRZ will get the 2.0-liter Boxer engine rated at 200 horsepower with a 6-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, an 8-speaker audio system with HD radio, air conditioning, all power accessories, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Both the 2013 Scion FR-S and the 2013 Subaru BRZ gets traction control, stability control and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution.

Performance

Whatever badge, model, or trim level that you choose, you can expect one thing from the 2013 Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ: extremely capable handling.

The steering is brimming with feel, and the accuracy is simply one of the best in the market, even rivaling the steering precision of a BMW. The suspension is coupled with unusually skinny tires, the same set that you can find on a recent model Toyota Prius hybrid.

The amazing part is that the summer tires did not affect the dynamic abilities of the 2013 Scion FR-S. In fact, the car can still corner like it was travelling on rails, while the tires are capable of soaking up minor bumps and irregularities on the road.

2013 Scion FR-S Pros and Cons

Pros

• Powerful yet fuel-efficient Boxer engine.
• Slick manual transmission.
• Precise steering and sports car-like handling.
• Comfortable driving position.

Cons

• Extremely tight rear quarters.
• Modest trunk space.
• Cheap-looking interior bits.
• Road noise and some harshness can be felt when driven on city roads.

If you are looking for a compact and more affordable alternative to the Ford Mustang and the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, you should take a close look at the 2013 Scion FR-S.