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[Toyota GT86 ad banned in UK for encouraging "dangerous driving"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/toyota-gt86-ad-banned-in-uk-for-encouraging-dangerous-driving/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/toyota-gt86-ad-banned-in-uk-for-encouraging-dangerous-driving/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/toyota-gt86-ad-banned-in-uk-for-encouraging-dangerous-driving/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Toyota GT86 banned ad screencap

A ban has reportedly been issued on a UK commercial for the Toyota GT86 (know as the Scion FR-S here in the US) that supposedly might "encourage motorists to drive irresponsibly," because it "condoned dangerous driving."

The commercial, known as "The Real Deal," in question has very clearly made an effort to distance itself from any kind of illicit real-world driving, as Toyota is fully aware that British laws forbids that kind of advertising. Toyota reportedly told Britain's Advertising Standards Authority that it did not, in fact, condone unsafe or irresponsible driving, and that its commercial - which features a digital man in a sort of Dystopian "video game" world - is impossible to reproduce under real-world conditions.

Toyota UK has not, as of this writing, felt compelled to remove the advertisement from its YouTube page, meaning you are at liberty to watch it for yourself below. At least here in The States, we consider it extremely "safe for work" - just don't try this on the road, hotshot.

Does banning a commercial from television serve to make it more popular on the internet? Give us your thoughts in Comments.

Continue reading Toyota GT86 ad banned in UK for encouraging "dangerous driving"

Toyota GT86 ad banned in UK for encouraging "dangerous driving" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bannedbanned adfr-sfrsgt 86gt86real dealscion fr-sscion frstoyota 86toyota gt86videoWed, 14 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20380082/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/14/toyota-gt86-ad-banned-in-uk-for-encouraging-dangerous-driving/20380082/article-detail.xml 20380082 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/toyota-gt86-commercial-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/toyota-gt86-commercial-628.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[Scion gets sideways with first FR-S commercial]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/scion-gets-sideways-with-first-fr-s-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/scion-gets-sideways-with-first-fr-s-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/scion-gets-sideways-with-first-fr-s-commercial/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Scion FR-S in red, front three-quarter dynamic screencap from first ad

So there we were last night, quietly minding our own middle-class American business in a middle-class American restaurant chain when the first 2013 Scion FR-S commercial stormed in on one of the establishment's many televisions. And we do mean stormed in - the audio was noticeably louder than the other ads that bookended it. That was just fine by us, as the drifting red bolide made for some entertaining visuals on an otherwise humdrum evening.

The ad - which you can watch by scrolling down - is surprisingly direct and gimmick-free for Scion, a brand perhaps best known for its hipper-than-thou advertising and viral marketing efforts. We think it's simple and effective, fairly radiating the rear-wheel-drive FR-S' core mission of "Bringing Sport Back to the Car."

Apparently the message resonated with the restaurant's barkeep as well - he was the one who spiked the volume on the TV when the ad came on. Twice.

Continue reading Scion gets sideways with first FR-S commercial

Scion gets sideways with first FR-S commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jun 2012 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-sdriftingfr-sfrsscionscion adscion commercialscion frsvideoThu, 07 Jun 2012 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20253707/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/07/scion-gets-sideways-with-first-fr-s-commercial/20253707/article-detail.xml 20253707 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-scion-fr-s-launch-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-scion-fr-s-launch-ad.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota working on Playstation-compatible track day black box for Scion FR-S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/31/toyota-working-on-playstation-compatible-track-day-black-box-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/31/toyota-working-on-playstation-compatible-track-day-black-box-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/31/toyota-working-on-playstation-compatible-track-day-black-box-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Scion FR-S

Autocar reports Toyota and Subaru are working on ways to sharpen the GT 86, BRZ and Scion FR-S triplets. While that may mean buyers could see a convertible version of the sports coupe as soon as 2014, engineers are also working on a variety of other improvements, including a new track telemetry system. Using an onboard black box, the gadgetry will record a slew of data from track days. That's nothing new, but the cool part is buyers will then be able to upload and compare their times with other FR-S owners via Sony PlayStation. The report says Toyota is currently working to map major tracks around the world.

There's no word on when the kit will debut, but according to the report, buyers of early models will be able to retrofit their cars with the telemetry system with relative ease. In addition, multiple online tutorials and demonstrations will be available for various tracks.

Toyota working on Playstation-compatible track day black box for Scion FR-S originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 May 2012 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black boxbrzfr-sfrsgt86playstationplaystation 3playstation networkps3scion fr-ssony playstationsubaru brztelematicstelemetrytelemetry systemtoyota gt 86Thu, 31 May 2012 15:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20248764/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/31/toyota-working-on-playstation-compatible-track-day-black-box-for/20248764/article-detail.xml 20248764 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/scion-fr-s-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/scion-fr-s-628.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Toyota celebrate UAE launch of GT 86]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/watch-toyota-celebrate-uae-launch-of-gt-86/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/watch-toyota-celebrate-uae-launch-of-gt-86/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/watch-toyota-celebrate-uae-launch-of-gt-86/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota GT-86 in the UAE

Toyota has officially launched the company's GT 86 sportscar in the United Arab Emirates. The Japanese automaker rolled out the rear-drive hero with a fancy new video shot in the hills around Fujairah. With plenty of drifting, tire smoke and slow motion, the clip serves as a proper introduction to the lightweight coupe. Judging by the quick video, there are a few market-specific changes to the UAE Toyota GT 86, including the availability of one very massive rear wing. The piece has more than a passing resemblance to the exaggerated aero work found on the lusty Subaru WRX STI sedan.

Will the Toyota GT 86 find favor in the UAE? We certainly think it's got a shot. If there's a more car-obsessed culture on this planet than the one found in the U.S., it lies in the well-funded Middle East. You can check out the launch video for yourself by scrolling below, or head over to the Toyota UAE Facebook page for a little more information.

Continue reading Watch Toyota celebrate UAE launch of GT 86

Watch Toyota celebrate UAE launch of GT 86 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 May 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>86fr-sfrsgt 86gt86scion fr-stoyobarutoyotatoyota 86toyota gttoyota gt 86toyota gt 86 launch videouaeunited arab emiratesvideoWed, 30 May 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20247480/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/30/watch-toyota-celebrate-uae-launch-of-gt-86/20247480/article-detail.xml 20247480 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/toyota-gt-86-uae-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/toyota-gt-86-uae-628.jpg <![CDATA[Scion targeting 20,000 annual FR-S sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/scion-targeting-20-000-annual-fr-s-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/scion-targeting-20-000-annual-fr-s-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/scion-targeting-20-000-annual-fr-s-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Scion FR-S

Scion has high sales hopes for its new rear-wheel-drive FR-S sports car. According to Ward's Auto, Jack Hollis, Scion's vice president, said that he anticipates sales as high as 20,000 units each year. "We're confident we can sell every one we get our hands on," Hollis stated.

The FR-S is slated to hit dealerships at the beginning of June and Scion projects that it will sell around 10,000 units before the end of the year, with an additional 20,000 cars finding homes in 2013. The automaker already has 1,243 pre-sale orders for the FR-S.

The nearly identical Subaru BRZ will also be sold in the United States, but parent Fuji Heavy Industries has less ambitious sales hopes. Subaru is only looking to move between 5,000 and 7,000 units annually. Hollis believes the FR-S, which is priced at $24,200 (not including $730 for destination) will sell in higher numbers largely in part to Scion's larger network of dealers.

Scion targeting 20,000 annual FR-S sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-sbrzfr-sfrssalesscionscion fr-s salessubaru brztoyobaruThu, 26 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224750/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/26/scion-targeting-20-000-annual-fr-s-sales/20224750/article-detail.xml 20224750 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-scion-fr-s-2d-1335447945_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-scion-fr-s-2d-1335447945.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> lets its hair down, drifts Subaru BRZ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/consumer-reports-lets-its-hair-down-drifts-subaru-brz/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/consumer-reports-lets-its-hair-down-drifts-subaru-brz/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/consumer-reports-lets-its-hair-down-drifts-subaru-brz/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Consumer Reports tests the 2013 Subaru BRZ

Our colleagues at Consumer Reports, when not professing their love for all things Toyota, have recently taken a real shine to Subarus. First they crowned the 2012 Impreza the top small sedan, while elevating the Subaru brand to the top of the 2012 CR ratings. Now comes this surprisingly entertaining "first look" video featuring the 2013 BRZ.

CR loved hot-shoeing the BRZ around the track, of course. As we've seen, this car is fun enough that anyone with a pulse should be able to enjoy it. But more importantly, the magazine answered a few important questions about the car's suitability for the low-budget racing crowd. Those that might be interested in campaigning a BRZ in local autocross events or track days will be happy to know that a helmeted, six-foot-tall driver can fit inside the car with proper head clearance. Equally as important, the BRZ's stability control can be switched entirely off, enabling the kinds of power slides that are great fun but sure to place you last in your SCCA Solo II class behind all the Miatas, Z cars and E36 M3's.

Go ahead and scroll down to watch the whole video.

Continue reading Consumer Reports lets its hair down, drifts Subaru BRZ

Consumer Reports lets its hair down, drifts Subaru BRZ originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brzbr-zbrzconsumer reportsfr-sfrsscionsubaruvideoTue, 17 Apr 2012 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20217928/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/17/consumer-reports-lets-its-hair-down-drifts-subaru-brz/20217928/article-detail.xml 20217928 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/consumer-reports-tests-subaru-brz-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/consumer-reports-tests-subaru-brz-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Scion FR-S gets first dyno run]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/12/2013-scion-fr-s-gets-first-dyno-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/12/2013-scion-fr-s-gets-first-dyno-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/12/2013-scion-fr-s-gets-first-dyno-run/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

fr-s dyno test

The 2013 Scion FR-S doesn't have the kind of power that results in jaw-dropping dyno numbers, but any naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four cylinder that promises 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque needs to be vetted out.

The good people at Edmunds Inside Line did the vetting, and the hotly anticipated Scion model performed, well, predictably. The FR-S delivered what Edmunds called "the most repeatable runs on the dyno of any car in recent memory," with peak wheel power measuring 173 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 143 pound-feet of torque at 2,500 revolutions. Keep in mind that these numbers are at the wheels, not at the crankshaft where factory numbers are recorded.

One interesting stat that showed up on the line graph was a 14-percent drop in torque between 3,200 and 4,500 RPM. This was reportedly done by engineers on purpose to increase driving pleasure lower in the rev range, which sounds like a solid compromise to us. Hit the jump to watch the video, and make sure to turn up your speakers for optimal boxer four enjoyment.

Continue reading 2013 Scion FR-S gets first dyno run

2013 Scion FR-S gets first dyno run originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-sfr-sfr-s dynofr-s horsepowerfrsscionvideoThu, 12 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20213787/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/12/2013-scion-fr-s-gets-first-dyno-run/20213787/article-detail.xml 20213787 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/scion-fr-s-dyno_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/scion-fr-s-dyno.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota retools development process with goal of creating more exciting cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/toyota-retools-development-process-with-goal-of-creating-more-ex/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/toyota-retools-development-process-with-goal-of-creating-more-ex/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/toyota-retools-development-process-with-goal-of-creating-more-ex/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Toyota GT-86 - orange paint - three-quarter view

These days, most Toyota models are about as likely to get your pulse up as the latest hardware from Frigidaire. But it wasn't always so. There was a time when Toyota counted itself among the world's sports car manufacturers with vehicles like the Supra, Celica All Trac and MR-2. Those two-doors helped forge generations of enthusiasts before the company shuttered its go-fast ambitions, a door that is only now starting to open again thanks to the new GT 86/Scion FR-S codeveloped with Subaru. Now, according to Automotive News, the company has unveiled a new development and manufacturing framework designed to aid in producing more exciting vehicles. According to CEO Akio Toyoda, the revamped system will allow the company to design multiple models at the same time to reduce costs.

It will also cut the number of executives tied to the design review process to streamline decisionmaking. The company says that with too many people involved, vehicles have been built by "eliminating negatives" instead of focusing on their strengths. Added cooperation between the automaker's planning and design units may foster more innovative styling, including models with lower centers of gravity and better aerodynamics. Think NS4 Plug-In Concept.

The Toyota New Global Architecture will first be applied to front-wheel drive models.

Toyota retools development process with goal of creating more exciting cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akio toyodafr-sfrsgt 86gt86lexusrdresearch and developmentscionscion fr-stoyotatoyota designtoyota new global architecturetoyota rdTue, 10 Apr 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20212284/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/10/toyota-retools-development-process-with-goal-of-creating-more-ex/20212284/article-detail.xml 20212284 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/toyotagt86hero_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/toyotagt86hero.jpg <![CDATA[Well That Didn't Take Long: V8-powered Toyota GT 86 drift car undergoes testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/well-that-didnt-take-long-v8-powered-toyota-gt-86-drift-car-un/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/well-that-didnt-take-long-v8-powered-toyota-gt-86-drift-car-un/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/well-that-didnt-take-long-v8-powered-toyota-gt-86-drift-car-un/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



Cash-strapped enthusiasts may not have had much to get all sticky over from Camp Toyota in recent years, but the automaker's new GT 86 / Scion FR-S coupe promises to mine a rich paystreak of driving enjoyment. And while we're big (okay, huge) fans of the car's low-speed dynamic thrills, not every enthusiast is so forgiving of its rather middling power and acceleration figures. We knew it wouldn't take long for the aftermarket to remedy this perceived power deficit with things like forced induction and ECU reflashes, but we foolishly expected a full engine swap to take a bit longer than it apparently has.

What you're looking at here is Manabu "Max" Orido's Toyota GT 86 prepped for drifting in D1 Grand Prix events. In this case, that means the two-door has been gutted and stuffed with the 5.0-liter V8 from the Lexus IS F, one of Toyota's more emotive offerings thanks to its honkin' great eight.

Orido's GT 86 is shown here undergoing shakedown testing, and from the looks of things, the transplant appears to be going rather swimmingly. At first glance, we even dig the more aggressive widebody look, lack of paint and all. Check it out for yourself below, and be sure to have your speakers on.

Continue reading Well That Didn't Take Long: V8-powered Toyota GT 86 drift car undergoes testing

Well That Didn't Take Long: V8-powered Toyota GT 86 drift car undergoes testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 scion fr-s2012 toyota gt 86d1d1 grand prixd1gpdriftingfr-sfrsgt 86oridotoyotav8 gt86videoFri, 30 Mar 2012 19:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20205302/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/30/well-that-didnt-take-long-v8-powered-toyota-gt-86-drift-car-un/20205302/article-detail.xml 20205302 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/toyota-gt-86-v8-drifter_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/toyota-gt-86-v8-drifter.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #275]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/autoblog-podcast-275/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/autoblog-podcast-275/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/autoblog-podcast-275/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

BMW 3 Series fuel economy, Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 production delays, Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ

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Episode #275 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Chris, Zach, and Dan cover the BMW 3 Series EPA fuel economy numbers game, GM holding the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 to sort out an un-disclosed issue, and the recent pricing and road test information about the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #275:
In the Autoblog Garage
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit
2012 Fiat 500C
2012 Mini Cooper Countryman S


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman
Runtime: 01:17:04
Get the podcast
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Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

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Autoblog Podcast #275 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series500cautoblog podcast 275bmwbmw f30brzcamaro zl1chevroletfeaturedfiatfrsgrand cherokeejeepscionsubaruTue, 27 Mar 2012 18:00:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #275Autoblog01:17:04 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20202303/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/27/autoblog-podcast-275/20202303/article-detail.xml 20202303 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[This is what the Toyota GT 86 sounds like with a TRD exhaust]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/this-is-what-the-toyota-gt-86-sounds-like-with-a-trd-exhaust/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/this-is-what-the-toyota-gt-86-sounds-like-with-a-trd-exhaust/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/this-is-what-the-toyota-gt-86-sounds-like-with-a-trd-exhaust/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



One of the inevitable pleasures of owning a vehicle like the Subaru BRZ or Toyota GT 86 (better known as the Scion FR-S on this side of the globe), is the level of go-faster, look-faster and sound-faster parts served up by any number of willing companies. Whether its from a factory-backed performance group or another reputable company, bolting on a slew of goodies is one of the easiest ways to personalize your ride. Toyota Racing Development has evidently wasted no time in coming up with a few special components for the GT 86, including a free-flowing exhaust, fully adjustable suspension and a monoblock caliper kit. TRD recently slathered those parts onto a GT 86 in Japan and let a few lucky souls behind the wheel.

Fortunately for us, Carnifty was on hand with a camera to capture the vehicle in action. While the shaky-hand cam business indoors does little to convey how the coupe handles, the video does give us a good idea of what the 2.0-liter four-cylinder will sound like with an easy-breathing exhaust. Hit the jump to watch the video for yourself.

Continue reading This is what the Toyota GT 86 sounds like with a TRD exhaust

This is what the Toyota GT 86 sounds like with a TRD exhaust originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fr-sfrsgt 86scionscion fr-stoyota racing developmenttrdtrd gt86trd toyota gt 86videoTue, 27 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20202038/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/27/this-is-what-the-toyota-gt-86-sounds-like-with-a-trd-exhaust/20202038/article-detail.xml 20202038 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/trd-toyota-gt-86-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/trd-toyota-gt-86-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Scion FR-S priced from $24,930 [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/2013-scion-fr-s-priced-from-24-930/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/2013-scion-fr-s-priced-from-24-930/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/2013-scion-fr-s-priced-from-24-930/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Scion FR-S

The highly anticipated 2013 Scion FR-S - the sister car of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT 86 - goes on sale this spring, and the automaker's website now shows that the cost of entry will be $24,930 including destination. That base price gets you an FR-S equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, though Scion's site doesn't yet say what the cost will be for cars equipped with the six-speed automatic.

As we already know, the FR-S is equipped with a 2.0-liter boxer four that sends 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque exclusively to the rear wheels. And just yesterday, we learned that the FR-S is good for 22/30 miles per gallon (city/highway) with the manual transmission, or 25/34 mpg with the automatic 'box. We've already had a chance to drive Scion's new sport coupe, and while it's certainly not the most powerful vehicle in the class, we found it to have excellent balance and declared it a more engaging steer than vehicles like the Honda Civic Si and Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

Head over to Scion's website for more information.

UPDATE: Scion has issued its official press release, stating that the 2013 FR-S starts from $24,200, which obviously does not include the $730 destination charge wrapped into the MSRP shown on the automaker's consumer site. What's more, Scion's press blast reveals that cars equipped with an automatic transmission will command $1,100 more, or $26,030 including destination. Follow the jump to read the official release.

Continue reading 2013 Scion FR-S priced from $24,930 [UPDATE]

2013 Scion FR-S priced from $24,930 [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-sfr-sfr-s pricingfrspricingscionscion pricingtoyobaruThu, 22 Mar 2012 00:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20198557/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/22/2013-scion-fr-s-priced-from-24-930/20198557/article-detail.xml 20198557 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-scion-fr-s-first-drive---01628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-scion-fr-s-first-drive---01628.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT 86 production gets underway [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/subaru-brz-and-toyota-gt-86-production-gets-underway-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/subaru-brz-and-toyota-gt-86-production-gets-underway-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/subaru-brz-and-toyota-gt-86-production-gets-underway-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT 86 production underway

Finally. It's the moment we've all been waiting for ever since Toyota and Subaru jointly announced their compact rear-wheel-drive sports car: production is now underway.

With an official ceremony at Subaru's Gunma Main Plant, attended by Toyota president Akio Toyoda, Subaru pushed the Big Red Button (quite literally, in case you were wondering) that sent BRZ and Toyota GT 86 coupes down the assembly line. And the event was captured in both still images and video for our viewing pleasure.

Check out our high-res image gallery above, and see below for the video and official press release. Oh, and if you're one of the lucky ones with a deposit down for either the Subaru or the Toyota's Scion FR-S twin (America won't get one with an interlocking rings badge), it's officially time to consider making room in your garage.

Continue reading Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT 86 production gets underway [w/video]

Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT 86 production gets underway [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brz2013 toyota gt 86br-zbrzfrsgt 86gt-86scionscion fr-ssubarutoyobarutoyotaFri, 16 Mar 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20195088/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/16/subaru-brz-and-toyota-gt-86-production-gets-underway-w-video/20195088/article-detail.xml 20195088 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/subaru-brz-toyota-gt-86-production_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/subaru-brz-toyota-gt-86-production.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota lead developer confirms droptop FT-86]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/toyota-lead-developer-confirms-droptop-ft-86/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/toyota-lead-developer-confirms-droptop-ft-86/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/toyota-lead-developer-confirms-droptop-ft-86/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Scion FR-S

Around the Autoblog virtual office, the Toyota GT-86 is among the most eagerly awaited new models this year. So when we spotted a report in AutoBild that Tetsuya Tada, the chief engineer of the car, has confirmed that a convertible is coming, we got excited.
Auto Bild Toyota GT-86 convertible rendering (cropped)
Of course, we're tempering our excitement with the knowledge that the 2013 Scion FR-S we're getting here in North America isn't the Toyota version. It may be the same actual car save for the brightwork, but when it comes to market positioning and all that stuff, Scion has differing objectives than the parent brand.

While we have heard rumors of a convertible before, they came in the context of the third GT-86 offspring, the Subaru BRZ. If a convertible version of the car ever does see the light of day here in the States, though, we're certainly not going to quibble over its badges.

Toyota lead developer confirms droptop FT-86 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brz2013 toyota gt-86brzbrz convertibleconvertiblefr-sfr-s convertiblefrsgt-86gt-86 convertiblegt86scionsubarutoyotaThu, 01 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20183671/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/01/toyota-lead-developer-confirms-droptop-ft-86/20183671/article-detail.xml 20183671 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-scion-fr-s-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-scion-fr-s-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Ken Gushi narrowly avoid a deer in a Scion FR-S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/watch-ken-gushi-narrowly-avoid-a-deer-in-a-scion-fr-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/watch-ken-gushi-narrowly-avoid-a-deer-in-a-scion-fr-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/watch-ken-gushi-narrowly-avoid-a-deer-in-a-scion-fr-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Drifting champ and Scion spokesdriver Ken Gushi narrowly missed a deer while shooting a spot for the Scion FR-S, and the helicopter camera crew caught the entire ordeal in glorious high-def.

Gushi and crew were filming at Mt. Diablo State Park in Northern California when the close encounter took place, and by close, we're not talking feet, we're talking inches.

Always the marketing pro, Gushi went on to commend the Scion's steering and brakes for helping avoid disaster. Check out the video and Gushi's response after the jump.

Continue reading Watch Ken Gushi narrowly avoid a deer in a Scion FR-S

Watch Ken Gushi narrowly avoid a deer in a Scion FR-S originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 scion fr-sdeerfr-sfrsken gushiken gushi scion fr-s deermount diablomt. diabloscionscion fr-sscion frsWed, 08 Feb 2012 12:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167261/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/watch-ken-gushi-narrowly-avoid-a-deer-in-a-scion-fr-s/20167261/article-detail.xml 20167261 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/gushi-deer-frs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/gushi-deer-frs.jpg <![CDATA[First Toyota FT-86 coupe dyno'd]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/first-toyota-ft-86-coupe-dynod/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/first-toyota-ft-86-coupe-dynod/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/first-toyota-ft-86-coupe-dynod/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota FT-86 on the Dyno

Well, that didn't take long. The First Toyota FT-86 (a.k.a. Scion FR-S) has made its way to the dyno courtesy of the good people at HKS. How'd it do? The vehicle managed to spin the rollers at 170 rear-wheel horsepower, which dovetails with the 200 crank horsepower announced by Toyota and Subaru after calculating a 15-percent driveline loss. Of course, whenever HKS gets involved, you can feel safe betting your lunch money that forced induction won't be far behind. True to form, HKS showed off its handiwork on a drift car version of the new sports coupe from Toyota.

The FT-86 looks more than happy to dance through a few chicanes sideways, and we can't wait to see the vehicle go fender-to-fender with the best of them. Click past the jump to check out the dyno video for yourself.

Continue reading First Toyota FT-86 coupe dyno'd

First Toyota FT-86 coupe dyno'd originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion frs2013 toyota ft-86dynodyno videofr-sfrsft-86ft-86 dynoft86hkssciontoyota ft-86 dynovideoTue, 24 Jan 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155429/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/24/first-toyota-ft-86-coupe-dynod/20155429/article-detail.xml 20155429 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/toyota-ft-86--on-the-dyno-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/toyota-ft-86--on-the-dyno-628.jpg <![CDATA[How to be one of the first 86 owners of the Scion FR-S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/how-to-be-one-of-the-first-86-owners-of-the-scion-fr-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/how-to-be-one-of-the-first-86-owners-of-the-scion-fr-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/how-to-be-one-of-the-first-86-owners-of-the-scion-fr-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Along with introducing its 600-horsepower Scion FR-S drift car in partnership with GReddy, Scion has also let all the felines loose from the bag called "First 86." The program makes it possible for a lucky 86 FR-S cravers to be the first to own the rather excellent sports car before it goes on sale to the public.

The process is rather simple, if a little hazy at the moment. On January 12 at 12 p.m. EST, a purchase-request page will go live at www.ScionFirst86.com, and anyone wanting an FR-S will have eight hours and six minutes to submit a request detailing their desired color and transmission. Within 24 hours the chosen 86 will be notified, and they'll have 96 hours to take their confirmation number and $500 to a dealer to officially reserve their coupe.

There isn't much more info to be had at the moment, but that should be enough to get you going until the gun goes off Thursday, January 12. Follow the link to scour the site for more clues, and to everyone who's going to get in the game, good luck.

How to be one of the first 86 owners of the Scion FR-S originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fr-s2012 scion2012 scion fr-2contestfirst 86fr-sfrsscion first 86scion fr-sscionfirst86.comTue, 10 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20144683/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/how-to-be-one-of-the-first-86-owners-of-the-scion-fr-s/20144683/article-detail.xml 20144683 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/scionfirst86_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/scionfirst86.jpg <![CDATA[Scion FR-S drift car looks like 600-horsepower fun]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/scion-fr-s-drift-car-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/scion-fr-s-drift-car-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/scion-fr-s-drift-car-detroit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scion FR-S Race Car

The Scion team is still giddy about the FR-S, and we can't blame them. We were in the mood for 200 horsepower and 2,700 pounds, and the FR-S is ready and willing to tickle our fancy. So it was understandable that Scion didn't have an all-new model to show us this week at the Detroit Auto Show, but Toyota's car-loving brand did provide a taste of the FR-S "race" car.

The drift car isn't just a fun project. Instead, it's the result of a partnership between Scion Racing and GReddy, and will compete in the 2012 Formula DRIFT series with veteran driver Ken Gushi.

We're guessing that the production FR-S won't go anywhere near 600 horsepower without some serious aftermarket work, but we'll at least have this drifter to drool over. Hit the jump to read over Scion's press release, and be sure to click through the high resolution images of the FR-S race car in the gallery above.

Continue reading Scion FR-S drift car looks like 600-horsepower fun

Scion FR-S drift car looks like 600-horsepower fun originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showdrift seriesFormula DRIFTfr-sfrsken gushiscionMon, 09 Jan 2012 16:42:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20144383/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/09/scion-fr-s-drift-car-detroit-2012/20144383/article-detail.xml 20144383 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/scion-fr-s-race-car-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/scion-fr-s-race-car-detroit.jpg -1 2