Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Scion FR-S pitted against oldtimers RX-8 and S2000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Scion FR-S vs Mazda RX-8 vs Honda S2000

There are very few vehicles available today that compare directly with the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ twins. A case could be made for the Mazda MX-5 Miata, and possibly even six-cylinder versions of American coupes like the Ford Mustang. Pretty much everything else is either too expensive or is powered by the wrong set of wheels.

The boys from EverydayDriver on YouTube decided the only fair way to judge the inherent qualities of the Toyobaru twins was to pit them against two standard-bearers of years past: The Honda S2000 and Mazda RX-8. Neither of these cars is an exact matchup, with the Honda boasting a convertible top and the RX-8 offering more practicality via a rear seat and two reverse-opening doors for easier access. What they do offer, however, are similar performance stats and proven reputations for excellent handling.

None of this talk answers the real question, though: Which one wins the comparison test? Scroll down to watch the video, and be prepared for something of a surprise conclusion.

Continue reading Scion FR-S pitted against oldtimers RX-8 and S2000

Scion FR-S pitted against oldtimers RX-8 and S2000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-shondahonda s2000mazdamazda rx-8scionscion fr-svideoTue, 07 May 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559441/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/20559441/article-detail.xml 20559441 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/frs-rx8-s2000_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/frs-rx8-s2000.png <![CDATA[Scion celebrates first 10 years with special edition models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/scion-celebrates-first-10-years-with-special-edition-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/scion-celebrates-first-10-years-with-special-edition-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/scion-celebrates-first-10-years-with-special-edition-models/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As the story goes, Toyota's Scion brand was imagined up in someone's basement and then came to fruition in 2003 as a youth-oriented brand with a focus on delivering unique vehicles with an equally unique retail experience. A decade later, the brand has grown to five models, which will each be commemorated starting in June with a new Scion 10 Series edition.

In varying quantities, Scion will be offering the FR-S, tC, iQ, xB and xD with an exclusive package that will all come in the Silver Ignition exterior color. Aside from the paint, these cars will also receive Scion badges on the front and rear that are backlit with blue LEDs that illuminate when the car is unlocked. Silver seat belts and a solar-powered illuminated shift knob will help distinguish the interiors of these cars, but the iQ, xB and xD will stand out further from the outside with darker alloy wheels.

In total, just 10,000 Scion 10 Series models are planned, and each will be identifiable with a sequentially numbered badge inside the car. The redesigned 2014 tC will get the most of the special-edition models with 3,500 units, while other new models like the FR-S and iQ will be restricted to just 2,500 units and 900 units, respectively. The original Scion, the xB, will get 2,100 Scion 10 Series models, and the xD will round out the 10,000-unit run with 1,000 models being produced. Scroll down for the official press release.

Continue reading Scion celebrates first 10 years with special edition models

Scion celebrates first 10 years with special edition models originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 scion iq2013 scion tc2013 scion xb2013 scion xdscionscion 10 seriesscion 10th anniversaryscion fr-sscion iqscion tcscion xbscion xdMon, 01 Apr 2013 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20523520/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/01/scion-celebrates-first-10-years-with-special-edition-models/20523520/article-detail.xml 20523520 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/scion-10-series-lineup_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/scion-10-series-lineup.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #326]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/autoblog-podcast-326/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/autoblog-podcast-326/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/autoblog-podcast-326/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Easter Jeep Safari concepts, Shelby 1000, 2014 Cadillac CTS and Mercedes CLA45 AMG leaks

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Episode #326 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth and Zach Bowman talk about this year's Easter Jeep Safari concepts, the 1,200-horsepower Shelby 1000 and leaked images of the 2014 Cadillac CTS and Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG. We wrap with your questions and emails, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!


Autoblog Podcast #326:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Scion FR-S
2013 Honda Civic Si
2013 Ford Taurus Limited EcoBoost


Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman

Runtime: 01:28:15

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #326

Autoblog Podcast #326 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford taurus2013 scion fr-s2014 cadillac cts2014 mercedes-benz cla45 amgautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 326cadillaccadillac ctsclsfeaturedfordford mustang shelby 1000ford taurusjeep easter safarimercedesmercedes a-classshelbyshelby 1000Tue, 26 Mar 2013 16:45:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #326Autoblog01:28:15 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20518102/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/26/autoblog-podcast-326/20518102/article-detail.xml 20518102 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GT86 engineers explored shooting brake and sedan variants, are they still in the cards?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/13/toyota-gt86-engineers-explored-shooting-brake-and-sedan-variants/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/13/toyota-gt86-engineers-explored-shooting-brake-and-sedan-variants/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/13/toyota-gt86-engineers-explored-shooting-brake-and-sedan-variants/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2013 Toyota GT86 TRD - front three-quarter view

According to the Toyota UK blog, engineers for the automaker were so excited developing the GT86 coupe that they investigated producing a whole family of models based on the rear-wheel drive sports car. And at least one engineer - product chief Tetsuya Tada - still hopes it can happen, even if not everyone at Toyota is onboard. Tada: "Actually we tried to do this secretly but the executives found us out. They said: 'What are you doing? Will you please focus on the coupe.'"

Those mooted variants included both a four-door sedan and a shooting brake. Why? Aside from the pure excellence of a lightweight, brilliantly handling hatchback, Toyota was keenly aware of the fact that it may need to spread the cost of development out across several models. Tada says that's part of the reason why it was so easy to create the convertible. The company knew from the outset that a softtop version was in the cards, and built the machine's structure to accommodate having the roof sliced off.

Tada also made mention of the already-announced collaboration between Toyota and BMW. The engineer said that the GT86 was particularly helpful because it demonstrated just how successful a product conceived and designed by two different companies can be. While he didn't say exactly what Toyota and BMW are up to, it's clear the two are looking into a number of possibilities. It's an interesting read with a lot of

Toyota GT86 engineers explored shooting brake and sedan variants, are they still in the cards? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Mar 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brz2013 toyota gt86bmwbrzfr-sgt 86gt-86gt86scionsubarutoyotaWed, 13 Mar 2013 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20500769/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/13/toyota-gt86-engineers-explored-shooting-brake-and-sedan-variants/20500769/article-detail.xml 20500769 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/toyota-gt86-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/toyota-gt86-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota pondering high-performance GT86 hybrid?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/toyota-pondering-high-performance-gt-86-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/toyota-pondering-high-performance-gt-86-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/toyota-pondering-high-performance-gt-86-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toyota GT86 TRD at Paris Motor Show reveal - front three-quarter view

From what Autocar has to say, Toyota has even more plans for the GT86 beyond the convertible concept we just saw at the Geneva Motor Show. Along with a planned midcycle facelift, Toyota is reportedly looking at how to pack some extra ponies under the coupe's hood, and while there has already been a lot of talk about superchargers and turbochargers, it sounds like a performance-boosting hybrid system could also be in the works.

Talking to Toyota chief engineer Tetsuya Tada, Autocar has learned that the automaker is considering an electrical motor assist for the sporty coupe to improve performance without harming fuel economy. In attempting to keep weight - and, presumably, costs - down, the article mentions the use of a system closer to what Honda uses for its Integrated Motor Assist rather than a full Hybrid Synergy Drive system used in current Toyota hybrids. Tada says the added weight of the system could be offset by weight reduction, while aerodynamic changes and a lower center of gravity could improve the car's handling.

No word yet on whether a mild hybrid system would find its way to North America's Scion FR-S - let alone its Subaru BRZ twin - but the thought is certainly an intriguing one.

Toyota pondering high-performance GT86 hybrid? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brzbr-zbrzfr-sgt 86gt-86gt86scion fr-s hybridtetsuya tadatoyobarutoyotatoyota gt86 hybridFri, 08 Mar 2013 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20494737/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/toyota-pondering-high-performance-gt-86-hybrid/20494737/article-detail.xml 20494737 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/toyota-gt86-trd-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/toyota-gt86-trd-paris.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GT86 engineer Tada recounts how sports car came to be]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/toyota-gt86-engineer-tada-recounts-how-sports-car-came-to-be/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/toyota-gt86-engineer-tada-recounts-how-sports-car-came-to-be/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/toyota-gt86-engineer-tada-recounts-how-sports-car-came-to-be/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Scion FR-S in red - front three-quarter view

Because the Toyota GT86, Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ coupes are now a reality, it's almost hard to imagine the struggle that had to happen within the large, conservative corporate structures at both automakers for the joint project to even get off of the ground.

Speaking to those struggles on Toyota UK's Toyota Blog, GT86 Chief Engineer Tetsuya Tada enlightens us with a recap of the sports car's earliest origins. For Tada, the first stages of the project must have seemed almost as dreamlike as the final product is to drive.

Said the Chief, "I had been working in the minivan department engineering new product, but a month after the meeting I was summoned. 'Forget about minivans,' they said, 'you are now working on the sports-car project.'"

The recounting of the GT86 development process makes for a genuinely interesting yarn, and is a must-read for any owners/enthusiasts of the BRZ/FR-S twins. We highly recommend clicking through to read it in full. Perhaps it's wishful thinking, but we can't help hoping that Tada-san has got more of the story to tell, still. We'll be keeping an eye on the official Toyota Blog, just in case.

Toyota GT86 engineer Tada recounts how sports car came to be originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brz2013 toyota gt86brzfr-sgt 86gt86gt86 developmentscionsubarutetsuya tadatoyobarutoyotatoyota gt86Wed, 13 Feb 2013 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20460217/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/13/toyota-gt86-engineer-tada-recounts-how-sports-car-came-to-be/20460217/article-detail.xml 20460217 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-scion-fr-s-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-scion-fr-s-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GT86 GT4 racer is ready for UK competition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/toyota-gt86-gt4-racer-is-ready-for-uk-competition/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/toyota-gt86-gt4-racer-is-ready-for-uk-competition/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/toyota-gt86-gt4-racer-is-ready-for-uk-competition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

GPRM Toyota GT86 GT4 Race Car - front three-quarter view

It's about time we saw someone cook up a legitimate race version of the delectable Toyota GT86, and now it looks as if GPRM has done just that. The Buckingham-based race engineering team has built the creation you see here, complete with a turbocharged 2.0-liter, direct-injection four-cylinder boxer cooked up by Nicholson McLaren Engines. The team says the new mill delivers between 360 and 400 horsepower to the rear wheels depending on final testing, which is a sight bit more than the 197 horses the naturally aspirated stock mill offers.

The car will compete in GT4 events, including the Avon Tyres British GT Championship. Technically, the GPRM effort isn't factory backed, but the team says the effort "has the blessing of Toyota Great Britain." How could it not? You can check out the brief press release below below, and be sure to take a closer look at the machine in our gallery.

Continue reading Toyota GT86 GT4 racer is ready for UK competition

Toyota GT86 GT4 racer is ready for UK competition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brz2013 toyota gt 86brzfr-sgprm toyota gt86gt 86gt86scionscion fr-ssubarusubaru brztoyobarutoyotatoyota gt86toyota gt86 race carTue, 05 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20449010/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/05/toyota-gt86-gt4-racer-is-ready-for-uk-competition/20449010/article-detail.xml 20449010 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/gprm-toyota-gt86-gt4-race-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/gprm-toyota-gt86-gt4-race-car-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Scion FR-S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/2013-scion-fr-s-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/2013-scion-fr-s-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/2013-scion-fr-s-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The New Poster Child For Cheap Thrills

2013 Scion FR-S

Let me tell you about a man named Larry. Larry works for a company called STI Fleet Services, one of a few companies that are responsible for the cleaning, prepping, maintaining, scheduling, delivering and picking up of the cars we test on a weekly basis, not to mention a whole slew of other duties. STI and its competitors are the silent heroes of this whole automotive journalism biz. Larry is one of the guys responsible for a lot of the grunt work - he's been delivering cars to me for nearly seven years now, and because of that, we've developed a bit of a rapport. Now that I think about it, my history with Larry goes back farther than several of my friendships, as well as every romantic relationship I've ever had... combined.

With that much history behind us, Larry knows my taste in cars pretty well. And even though he doesn't voice his own opinions about what's being delivered to me, Larry silently knows when he's about to hand me keys to something truly special. When Larry arrived at my door with a bright red 2013 Scion FR-S, I tried to play it cool. But Larry knows me better than that.

"This is your car, man. It's all you."

Continue reading 2013 Scion FR-S

2013 Scion FR-S originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-sfeaturedfr-sreviewreviewsscionThu, 10 Jan 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20424124/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/10/2013-scion-fr-s-review/20424124/article-detail.xml 20424124 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-scion-fr-s-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-scion-fr-s-review.jpg <![CDATA[Gazoo Racing teases Toyota GT86-based concept for Tokyo Auto Salon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/31/gazoo-racing-teases-toyota-gt86-based-concept-for-tokyo-auto-sal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/31/gazoo-racing-teases-toyota-gt86-based-concept-for-tokyo-auto-sal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/31/gazoo-racing-teases-toyota-gt86-based-concept-for-tokyo-auto-sal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Toyota GT8-6-based Gazoo Racing concept for 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon - taillamp teaser

The Tokyo Auto Salon will welcome a Toyota GT86 (known here as the Scion FR-S) tuned by Gazoo Racing, said to be called the GRMN Sports FR Concept Platinum. We only get the briefest of teasers right now before the show begins on January 11, so we don't have much to go on beyond a unique lower front fascia and headlight treatment, a hood with at least one scoop, and a giant wing with unique LED taillights out back.

Assuming this coupe is a further development of the GRMN Sports FR Concept from earlier in 2012, it will likewise use a twin-charged version of the 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder and put out something like 330 horsepower and 318 pound-feet of torque. We'll get the rest of the skinny in about two weeks, so for now, there's a gallery of other teased angles above.

Gazoo Racing teases Toyota GT86-based concept for Tokyo Auto Salon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Dec 2012 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s86fr-sgazoo racinggrmngrmn sports fr concept platinumgt 86gt86sciontokyo auto salontoyobarutoyotaMon, 31 Dec 2012 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20413797/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/31/gazoo-racing-teases-toyota-gt86-based-concept-for-tokyo-auto-sal/20413797/article-detail.xml 20413797 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/grmngt086platinum_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/grmngt086platinum.jpg <![CDATA[Buy a Toyota GT86 and your wife will hate you]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/buy-a-toyota-gt86-and-your-wife-will-hate-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/buy-a-toyota-gt86-and-your-wife-will-hate-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/buy-a-toyota-gt86-and-your-wife-will-hate-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota GT86 man ad

Marketing can be a very strange business. Convincing a man or woman (or child, really) that they absolutely cannot live without the latest, greatest new bit of technology oftentimes takes a unique approach. In the "online film promoting the Toyota GT86" you'll see below, created by agency Happiness Brussels, men are reverse-psychologied into thinking a new sports coupe will make them more masculine by getting their loved ones to hate them. Or something like that. We think.

In any case, we suggest you watch the video below to see how much fun men can have with a GT86 - or Scion FR-S or Subaru BRZ, presumably - at the expense of their significant others. Fair warning: There's a potential Not Safe For Work moment in the ad: beware of a brief male butt shot about 44 seconds in.

Marketing. Gotta love it. Unless you're married to a man. Or something like that. We think. Whatever, just watch.

Continue reading Buy a Toyota GT86 and your wife will hate you

Buy a Toyota GT86 and your wife will hate you originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brz2013 toyota gt8686brzfr-sgt 86gt86happiness brusselsreverse psychologyscionsubarutoyotatoyota gt86 advideoviral videoWed, 14 Nov 2012 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20377844/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/14/buy-a-toyota-gt86-and-your-wife-will-hate-you/20377844/article-detail.xml 20377844 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/toyota-gt86-man-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/toyota-gt86-man-ad.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #307 LIVE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-307-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-307-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-307-live/#commentsFiled under:

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We record Autoblog Podcast #307 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments regarding the rest of the week's news via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #307

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #307 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-sautoblog podcastautoblog podcast liveautoblog podcast topicsfr-shyundai fuel economykia fuel economymost reliablemost reliable american carspodcastscionscion fr-sscion fr-s superchargertesla model sMon, 05 Nov 2012 17:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20371166/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-307-live/20371166/article-detail.xml 20371166 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Scion FR-S may be getting supercharger kit from TRD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/scion-fr-s-may-be-getting-supercharger-kit-from-trd/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/scion-fr-s-may-be-getting-supercharger-kit-from-trd/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/scion-fr-s-may-be-getting-supercharger-kit-from-trd/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Scion FR-S was just named the Hottest Sport Compact at the 2012 SEMA Show, and Toyota Racing Development (TRD) is apparently looking to make this car a little hotter. According to Car and Driver, TRD is close to coming up with a supercharger to fit to the car's 2.0-liter flat-four engine in order to squeeze out a little more performance. Currently, the FR-S produces 200 horsepower, but there's no guessing how much a supercharger could improve this figure.

With Subaru seemingly hard at work on a new turbo engine for the BRZ and even possibly a BRZ STI model, it is only logical for a force-fed FR-S to be in the works as well. Surprisingly, though, the report says that supercharger would be unique to the FR-S, but since the Scion and Subaru BRZ are mechanically identical, it isn't clear how this would be accomplished. TRD already offers plenty of upgrades for the FR-S such as exhaust, brake and suspension kits, and it offers a handful of superchargers for other models including the 5.7-liter V8 used in the Toyota Tundra and the 4.0-liter V6 used in the Tacoma.

Scion FR-S may be getting supercharger kit from TRD originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-sfr-sfr-s superchargersciontrdtrd superchargerMon, 05 Nov 2012 09:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20369083/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/05/scion-fr-s-may-be-getting-supercharger-kit-from-trd/20369083/article-detail.xml 20369083 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-scion-fr-s-2d_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-scion-fr-s-2d.jpg <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ show up en masse at SEMA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/pics-aplenty-scion-fr-s-and-subaru-brz-show-up-en-masse-at-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/pics-aplenty-scion-fr-s-and-subaru-brz-show-up-en-masse-at-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/pics-aplenty-scion-fr-s-and-subaru-brz-show-up-en-masse-at-sema/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scion FR-S Show Cars at SEMA

Scion made a huge investment in the 2012 SEMA show, and its spanking new FR-S coupe, by putting hundreds of cars in the hands of tuners. The result on the floor of the Las Vegas Convention Center is unmissable, as just about everywhere we turn we find another FR-S peeking out at us.

We tried to capture a large quantity of the coupes we saw on display, to represent just how thick on the ground they actually are. In the attached gallery you'll find a healthy percentage of the alleged 150-plus cars that made it to SEMA this year. You'll also find a smattering of Subaru BRZ models, too. Fair is fair.

Pics Aplenty: Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ show up en masse at SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brzbrzfr-spics aplentyscionsemasema 2012SubaruThu, 01 Nov 2012 20:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20368195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/01/pics-aplenty-scion-fr-s-and-subaru-brz-show-up-en-masse-at-sema/20368195/article-detail.xml 20368195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/scion-fr-s-sema-2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/scion-fr-s-sema-2012.jpg <![CDATA[Scion FR-S Tuner Challenge declares a winner]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/scion-ft-s-tuner-challenge-winner-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/scion-ft-s-tuner-challenge-winner-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/scion-ft-s-tuner-challenge-winner-sema-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We're all still a little taken aback at the sheer number of Scion FR-S mods we've seen at SEMA this year. Not only did the FR-S win the Best of Show award for the Sport Compact class, but based on gross tonnage the rear-drive Scion has got to be one of the most popular models in the tuner world today.

But of all the FR-S customs on display, it was this trio from Scion's tuner build-off that were up for the chance to win a fat $10,000 grand prize. We brought you the stories of Daniel Song, Chris Basselgia and John Toca last week, all of who built some pretty stellar, modded coupes.

Earlier on the show floor, Scion announced that Mr. Basselgia's "minty FReSh" car was the most well liked by the judges. We'd like to extend our congratulations to him, and to all of the hard working contestants.

Did the judges pick the right car? Take a look at all three models in our attached live gallery, and weigh in on which one you like the best.

Scion FR-S Tuner Challenge declares a winner originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-schris basselgiafr-s tuner challenge winnerminty freshscion fr-s tuner challengesemasema 2012Thu, 01 Nov 2012 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20366878/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/01/scion-ft-s-tuner-challenge-winner-sema-2012/20366878/article-detail.xml 20366878 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/03-scion-fr-s-tuner-challenge-sema-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/03-scion-fr-s-tuner-challenge-sema-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GT86 TRD boasts added performance gear, industry-first door stabilizer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/toyota-gt86-gt-86-trd-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/toyota-gt86-gt-86-trd-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/toyota-gt86-gt-86-trd-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota GT86 TRD at 2013 Paris Motor Show

We haven't stopped swooning over the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ twins and their corner-carving magic. For those overseas who enjoy the rear-drive coupe under the Toyota name as the GT86, things just got a little corner-carve-ier. This GT86 TRD is everyone's favorite rear-drive, boxer-engined Toyota, albeit fitted with a full selection of Toyota Racing Development parts.

The GT86 TRD gets a more aggressive air dam, side skirts, rear diffuser and a trunk lid spoiler. There are also stainless steel rear diffusers and buyers can choose from two different sets of 18-inch TRD aluminum wheels.

Inside the cabin, the driver is rewarded with a center console-mounted pushbutton start and new leather-wrapped shift knob, but things get more interesting under the skin. The TRD version features added stabilizers and an adjustable shock absorber and spring set. Other TRD kit includes front and rear monoblock brake calipers, upgraded brake lines and a high response muffler.

Of particular note is the TRD Door Stabilizer. It employs a spacer that automatically fills the strike gap in the door when closed, which Toyota says improves torsional rigidity. This feature is claimed to be an industry first, and we're curious to know if it provides a noticeable improvement in stiffness.

The GT86 TRD showcar is fully packed with all this gear, but it's also being used to promote the TRD performance line, which allows GT86 buyers to pick up any of these parts individually throughout Europe. Given the accessory-happy lineup currently over at Scion, it'll be interesting to see if the full catalog of TRD performance line parts makes its way into the FR-S brochure. For now, check out our photos of the more aggressive GT86.

Continue reading Toyota GT86 TRD boasts added performance gear, industry-first door stabilizer

Toyota GT86 TRD boasts added performance gear, industry-first door stabilizer originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Sep 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 toyota gt86accessoriesfr-sgt 86gt86parisparis 2012paris motor showsciontoyotatoyota racing developmenttrdThu, 27 Sep 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20334879/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/27/toyota-gt86-gt-86-trd-paris-2012/20334879/article-detail.xml 20334879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/toyota-gt86-trd-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/toyota-gt86-trd-paris.jpg <![CDATA[Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ get IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/videos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/scion-fr-s-subaru-brz-get-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/scion-fr-s-subaru-brz-get-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/scion-fr-s-subaru-brz-get-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



There are many reasons why we love the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ, and now safety can be added to this list. Both of these track-friendly fraternal twins were just named as 2012 Top Safety Picks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety making them the only sub-$30,000 sport coupes to make the list.

Aside from the small batch of luxury cars, the IIHS has not performed any more of its small overlap tests, but both the FR-S and BRZ earned top marks for frontal-, side- and rear-crash safety as well as roof strength. Since both cars are practically identical, only the FR-S was used for these crash tests, and it joins the xB, xD and tC for Scion's 2012 Top Safety Pick cars. For Subaru, aside from the old-bodied WRX and the yet-to-be-released XV Crosstrek, all of the automaker's current models are Top Safety Picks, and if it can pull off top safety results for its all-new crossover and next-generation sport sedan, its entire lineup would be on the list... something that even Acura can no longer boast.

Speaking of Acura, other new additions to the ever-growing list of safe cars include the 2013 ILX. Scroll down to watch videos of the FR-S crash tests.

Continue reading Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ get IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/videos]

Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ get IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Sep 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 top safety pick2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brziihsinsurance institute for highway safetyscionsubarutop safety pickFri, 07 Sep 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20317900/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/07/scion-fr-s-subaru-brz-get-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-videos/20317900/article-detail.xml 20317900 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/scion-frs-iihs-crash-test_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/scion-frs-iihs-crash-test.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Philippines lets loose in GT 86 promo vid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/toyota-philippines-lets-loose-in-gt-86-promo-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/toyota-philippines-lets-loose-in-gt-86-promo-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/toyota-philippines-lets-loose-in-gt-86-promo-vid/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Toyota GT86 Philippines

The Toyota GT 86 has been one of the brand's video stars this year, gobbling up millions of frames as it makes friends in each new land. The story is no different in the Philippines, where a troupe of GT 86 coupes starred in a precision driving and drifting display at an airfield.

Put together by Toyota Philippines, the video was helmed by Sid Maderazo, the same gent who brought us the supercar extravaganza at Subic Bay called The Mile. His latest work can be found by scrolling down.

Continue reading Toyota Philippines lets loose in GT 86 promo vid

Toyota Philippines lets loose in GT 86 promo vid originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Aug 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-sfr-sfrsgt 86philippinessid maderazotoyobarutoyotatoyota philippinesvideovideosyoutubeMon, 27 Aug 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20309437/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/27/toyota-philippines-lets-loose-in-gt-86-promo-vid/20309437/article-detail.xml 20309437 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/toyota-gt86-ad-philippines_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/toyota-gt86-ad-philippines.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> cuts loose, compares Scion FR-S against Subaru BRZ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/consumer-reports-cuts-loose-compares-scion-fr-s-against/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/consumer-reports-cuts-loose-compares-scion-fr-s-against/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/consumer-reports-cuts-loose-compares-scion-fr-s-against/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Consumer Reports pits Scion FR-S against Subaru BRZ

The folks at Consumer Reports are a lot like the Ben Steins of the automotive world. At first glance, they are the dry-as-saltines, facts-only crew that can't be bothered by anything but the empirical data with which they distill to arrive at their coveted "Recommended" accolades. It isn't always this way with CR, though, as we found out when they hopped behind the wheel of the Toyobaru coupes of our collective dreams, the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ.

Automotive engineer Jake Fisher hosts this test and speaks for the CR team explaining that, though both coupes are very much the same animal, they have subtle differences. The BRZ comes with a bit more available kit, like a rear spoiler, HID headlights and navigation, while the FR-S carries a lower price. All seems like what we've heard before, right? Well, CR ends up favoring the FR-S, claiming it has a more balanced ride and handles better.

This decision stands in contrast to a recent Motor Trend comparison test, in which the print publication favored the driving characteristics of the Subaru over the Scion.

More than anything, this highlights just how close the two cars are, and as CR's Fisher put it, "You're not gonna go wrong with either one of these." We agree, but click below to see the video and find out exactly what made CR err on the side of the Scion, then weigh in with your thoughts in Comments.

Consumer Reports cuts loose, compares Scion FR-S against Subaru BRZ originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brzbrzconsumer reportsfr-sfrsscionscion fr-ssubarusubaru brztoyobaruTue, 21 Aug 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20305781/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/21/consumer-reports-cuts-loose-compares-scion-fr-s-against/20305781/article-detail.xml 20305781 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/consumer-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/consumer-628.jpg <![CDATA[UK Toyota GT86 busts out of a Dystopian future]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/20/uk-toyota-gt86-busts-out-of-a-dystopian-future/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/20/uk-toyota-gt86-busts-out-of-a-dystopian-future/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/20/uk-toyota-gt86-busts-out-of-a-dystopian-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Toyota GT86 Dystopian ad

Everybody loves a good dystopian story, right? From classics like Aldous Huxley's Brave New World and Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451 to modern works like The Hunger Games, people are fascinated by the imaginative tales of a future society beset by the decidedly unfortunate consequences of human activity. Someone in Toyota's UK marketing team has been paying attention to the trend.

In the video after the break, you'll see a pixelated future where real driving fun is almost impossible to come by. Our digital protagonist takes us on a short journey through dark and damp city streets in a car controlled by computers before finding his way to a bright red Toyota GT86. Mayhem ensues until our newly alive driver breaks free of his artificial constraints.

Watch the video below... before Big Brother has it removed from YouTube.

Continue reading UK Toyota GT86 busts out of a Dystopian future

UK Toyota GT86 busts out of a Dystopian future originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brzbrzdystopiandystopian addystopian videofr-sgt 86gt86toyotaMon, 20 Aug 2012 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20305130/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/20/uk-toyota-gt86-busts-out-of-a-dystopian-future/20305130/article-detail.xml 20305130 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/toyota-gt86-dystopian-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/toyota-gt86-dystopian-ad.jpg <![CDATA[<em>R&T</em> improves Scion FR-S performance with a tire swap]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/randt-improves-scion-fr-s-performance-with-a-tire-swap/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/randt-improves-scion-fr-s-performance-with-a-tire-swap/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/randt-improves-scion-fr-s-performance-with-a-tire-swap/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Scion FR-S

On paper, the Scion FR-S is a great little performance car with its light curb weight, peppy engine and rear-wheel-drive layout, but as Road & Track recently found out about the car, none of that matters on the track if you have the wrong tires. The magazine's staffers found the Scion and Subaru cars were out-handled by competitors like the Mazda Miata and Hyundai Genesis Coupe, so they tried a simple tire swap on the FR-S to see if replacing the stock rubber with something with a bit more grip could help the matter.

In stock form, both the BRZ and FR-S come with Michelin Primacy summer touring tires, which are apparently tuned more for low rolling resistance than grip. Now, we're sure there will be plenty of FR-S and BRZ owners who will never take their cars to a track, so these stock tires help to optimize fuel economy and longevity, but for those who do want to have some autocross fun with their new Toyobaru coupe, then what?

R&T took an FR-S to Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch with three wheel and tire combinations, and put the car up against a MazdaSpeed3 and a Subaru WRX. First up were the stock tires, which put it almost two seconds behind the Mazda and a second behind the Subaru with a lap time of 1:29.3. Next, the car's 17-inch wheels were wrapped in Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star Specs extreme performance summer tires, shaving a full two seconds off the FR-S' track time and making it the fastest of the bunch with a time of 1:27.0. Finally, they tested the FR-S with the same type of tires on lightweight 18-inch wheels, but while the time around the track dipped a little (1:27.6), this wheel and tire combination was the best on the skidpad with a 0.96g.

An interesting note, the Dunlops are obviously much stickier and they cost less than the Michelins, but since they are built for performance, there is no treadlife warranty (according to Tire Rack, where R&T got their tires and prices). Meanwhile, the stock Michelin tires aren't as capable at the track, but they come with a treadlife warranty of up to six years or 45,000 miles.

Check out how the different tires affect the FR-S in the video below.

Continue reading R&T improves Scion FR-S performance with a tire swap

R&T improves Scion FR-S performance with a tire swap originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brzbrzroad and trackscionsubarutiresThu, 16 Aug 2012 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20302360/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/16/randt-improves-scion-fr-s-performance-with-a-tire-swap/20302360/article-detail.xml 20302360 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/scion-frs-tires-roatandtrack_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/scion-frs-tires-roatandtrack.jpg -1 2