2014 Scion FR-S and tC Monogram Series are some spruced coupes

Tue, 14 Jan 2014

Scion is in the unusual position of offering a pair of inexpensive sports two-doors, the rear-drive FR-S coupe and the front-drive tC hatchback. Despite offering outwardly similar size and form factors, the two have vastly different characters, chiefly because of their different drivetrain philosophies.

One area of commonality, however, is that both interiors have historically been underwhelming in terms of material choice and options. Oh, the FR-S has the basics nailed: a great driving position, grippy seats and properly businesslike wheel and shifter knob, but if you've been looking for premium-minded materials and high-end features from either model, they've been hard to come by.

The just-launched Monogram Series editions seek to rectify this somewhat, with each model getting additional features at a special price. In the case of the 2,000-unit FR-S limited edition, that means heated leather and Alcantara seats, heated side mirrors, high-intensity discharge headlamps, dual-zone climate control and BeSpoke audio and navigation, among other features.

The tC Monogram Series, limited to 2,500 examples, also benefits from heated, leather-trimmed seats and the same BeSpoke audio and navigation system, but it also receives a rear spoiler, rear window wiper, keyless start, plus upgraded interior trim on the door cards and center console lid.

The equipment in the $27,400 (*not including $755 for destination) FR-S Monogram is said to represent a $1,900 savings over separately priced options, but not all of the equipment was previously available. The tC Monogram, for its part, rings up at $21,400, a $1,500 savings.

Checking out these debuts at the Detroit Auto Show reveals that these are fine upgrades, and they all help liven up both models' cabins, but we'd still like to see Scion adopt more stylish and better-executed interiors with nicer materials.

Limited Scion Monogram Series Brings Premium Features to FR-S and tC

TORRANCE, Calif., (Jan. 9, 2014) – Exceptional features will now come at even more exceptional prices. The 2014 Scion FR-S and tC gain premium features with the competitively priced, limited edition Monogram Series™ models on display for the first time at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Monogram Series vehicles will be available in dealerships starting in February.

"Through this limited edition Monogram Series, Scion brought together extra comforts and conveniences in the FR-S and tC without sacrificing value," said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. "By incorporating these features as standard for a limited time, we provide a great price to go head-to-head with the competition and encourage more drivers to get excited about experiencing a Scion."

High-end features like Alcantara® inserts in the FR-S and navigation technology in both the FR-S and tC set the Monogram Series apart. Vehicles will be available in all standard body colors and both transmission options. Just 2,000 of these limited FR-S models and 2,500 tC models will be available this year.

Scion FR-S Monogram Series Specifications
Leather seats with Alcantara® inserts
BeSpoke® Premium Audio with navigation and connected services
Smart Key with push button start
HID headlamps with LED daytime running lights

Dual-zone automatic climate control system
Heated front seats
Heated outside mirrors
Frameless rearview mirror
Color-keyed rear spoiler
Rear-seat center armrest
Carpet cargo mat

Pricing: The MSRP for the six-speed manual and six-speed sequential automatic transmissions are $27,400 and $28,500 respectively, representing a value package of over $1,900. There is an additional $395 fee for the premium exterior color Whiteout.

Scion tC Monogram Series Specifications
Leather trimmed seats with perforated inserts
BeSpoke® Premium Audio with navigation and connected services
Smart Key with push button start
Heated front seats
Leather shift knob
Rear window wiper
Color-keyed low-profile rear spoiler
Carpet floor and cargo mat
Upgraded center console lid with accent stitching
Upgraded interior door trim

Pricing: The MSRP for the six-speed manual and six-speed sequential automatic transmissions are $21,400 and $22,400 respectively, representing a value package of over $1,500.

All Scion models are covered by a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Monogram Series vehicles also come standard with Scion Service Boost, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and two years of 24-hour roadside assistance.

Scion MSRPs do not include a $755 delivery, processing and handling (DPH) for all Scion models. The DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary. The complimentary Scion Service Boost includes normal factory-recommended maintenance services up to two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for up to two years from the date of purchase.

By Chris Paukert