Affordable fun: The 2013 Scion FR-S

Sports cars don't have to cost a ton of money. A recent example of one that doesn't is the 2013 Scion FR-S.
This car takes the youthful approach that Scion has become known for, and adds a bit of race-car styling and performance driving ability to present a cool little package of fun.

Toyota, owner of the Scion brand, worked with Subaru to develop the FR-S, which the latter company also produces under its own badge as the BRZ.
The FR-S is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 200 horsepower and 151 pounds-feet of torque.
The transmission comes as a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
The test drive model had the manual, and shifting was smooth and orderly.
Fuel economy is rated at 22 mpg city, 30 highway with the manual and 25 and 34 with the automatic.

Driving dynamics on the FR-S could well be described as peppy and energetic. Behind the wheel, you won't mistake it for a BMW or Audi. But remember, when you make your car payment each month, you also won't mistake it for a BMW or Audi.

Acceleration is smooth, braking is swift and sure and handling is solid.

Toyota made sure to keep the FR-S's weight down to assist its nimbleness.
And the FR-S has a very low center of gravity, which allows you to feel the road, but at the same time you won't be too beat up after a moderately lengthy commute.

However, this is quite a low-slung vehicle, so taller drivers and passengers, or those who have lost a bit of flexibility (we fit into both categories), might not always find comfort in ingress and egress.

The FR-S has four seats, but only two of them are really inhabitable by most humans. Maybe the tiniest of folks could fit in the rear two.

The FR-S starts at around $24,500 and goes to about $27,000.

That's a somewhat reasonable price for a sporty, stylish car. But frankly, we thought that around that price point, you might get a few more "goodies" thrown into the mix.

Overall, however, the FR-S is a good, rear-wheel drive sports car that stands out from the pack, and if that's what you're after, with a reasonable price tag, you get it.

2014 Scion tC: For Affordable Fun, it's a Terrific Choice

Sports cars are typically fun to look at and drive, but it's not fun to try to afford one if your wallet isn't flush with cash.
But the newest version of the Scion tC addresses that issue, bringing fun driving dynamics, cool styling and a reasonable price tag.
The 2014 tC has gotten a refresh that includes new designs at the front and rear, an enhanced suspension and some added technology.
The new front features a large grille, sleek headlights and a prominent air intake. The rear gets new LED taillights and seems to have more of an upswept look that completes its exterior appearance a bit more dramatically.
Scion says it revised the suspension to promote better handling and improve its ability to take on corners.
The trick seems to have worked, as the tC played along happily when we tossed it about for a bit.
The tC is powered by a peppy 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 179 horsepower and 173 pounds-feet of torque. It is linked to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel economy is solid at 23 mpg city, 31 highway.
We can't honestly say that the tC can compete, performance-wise, with cars that are priced $15,000 (or more) higher, but in its price range, it would be tough to find a sportier driving ride.
But don't forget, even if the tC doesn't satisfy your race car desires, you can check out Scion's other sporty model, the FR-S .
As for new technology, the tC now features a Pioneer display audio system that can be linked to Bluetooth and HD radio. You can opt for Scion's Aha infotainment system, as well as a navigation system.
One pleasant standard feature is the panoramic roof window with power moonroof. It adds a nice bit of light to what otherwise could be a rather dark and compact cabin.
The tC is small, but its safety ratings are good. It received a five star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and was a top safety pick of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Scion is marking its 10th year as a brand, and it deserves credit for continuing the mission it began at inception: making fun cars that are affordable.
The tC is both, with a sticker price ranging from around $20,000 to nearly $24,000.
For an energetic, sporty ride, you might say the tC stands for terrific choice.