Even though Toyota FT-86’s faith is yet to be decided, it makes its American debut as the Scion FR-S Sports Coupe Concept at the New York International Auto Show.
FR-S Concept, which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport, features the same design as the FT-86 with a few subtle differences such as the grilles. And it looks much cooler in red! The concept car is powered by a new flat-four engine that makes use of Toyota’s D4-S injection system, which utilizes both direct and port injection, resulting in increased horsepower and torque throughout the entire powerband, without sacrificing MPG.
It can be had (if they finally make up their mind to put it into production) with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. A limited-slip differential will also be provided to complement the system.
The car has a short wheelbase and is also very light, and that makes it a sweet handling car, specially with the low slung boxer engine that brings the center of gravity down, making the car more planted.
That’s it for now, until Toyota reveals the nest step in their quest to make a boxer sports car, reviving the memories of their good old sportscars. here’s more details on the car’s design inside and out for those of you interested:
The fierce exterior of the FR-S is a good reflection of its inner power. The intimidating proportions of the concept give it a dominant stance that bleeds performance. The profile, inspired by the Toyota 2000GT, reveals a hood-line that is remarkably sleek and low, made possible by the boxer’s architecture.
The low stance continues to exaggerate the FR-S’ menacing face, which is made up of sharp lines, a wide mouth and angular headlights that include bright LED clusters. The solid panel roofline is sleek, lightweight and rigid, slotted with an aerodynamic shape that channels air cleanly over to the top. The front fenders protrude upward, making space for the massive monoblock Five Axis 20×8.5-inch wheels, while the muscular rear fenders are widened to house the 20×10.5-inch wheels, emphasizing the FR-S’ staggered stance and rear-wheel-drive setup.
The rear fascia sits low and wide, with extensive lower treatments that surround the dual exhaust exits and contribute to excellent aerodynamics. LEDs illuminate both the edgy taillights and the bold “SCION” logo.
The concept features four-piston-caliper front brakes that clamp down on monstrous 18-inch annular carbon ceramic matrix rotors that are fixed to the wheels in a motorcycle-fashion. The FR-S Concept is layered in rich coats of Code Red, the appropriately named color that consists of a custom blend of candy and a developmental additive from BASF called Mearlite SSQ.
