2015 Scion FR-S gets suspension, appearance enhancements

Thu, 15 May 2014

A couple of weeks ago, we told you about some suspension and appearance changes for the European-market Toyota GT86 – a car that's better known as the Scion FR-S (and Subaru BRZ) here in the United States. At the time, our US contacts at Scion told us we'd have final confirmation "soon" as to whether or not these upgrades would make their way to our FR-S, and now, we have those official details.

For 2015, the FR-S features a more rigid front suspension setup, and the rear shock absorbers have been retuned, all of which has been done to reduce body roll and improve feedback. Other upgrades include a new shark-fin antenna and larger exhaust pipes that are now flush with the rear bodywork. Inside, buyers will be treated to an updated interior panel with a carbon fiber look, the addition of automatic on/off headlights, and a new key design. All of this comes at very little additional cost, with the manual transmission-equipped 2015 FR-S starting at $24,900 (not including $755 for destination) – an increase of $400.

Elsewhere in the Scion range, the tC coupe has been updated slightly for 2015. The not-as-sporty coupe now features steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters on automatic transmission-equipped models, and a couple of new colors are offered: Cosmic Gray and Blizzard Pearl. The 2015 tC starts at $19,210 – the same as the 2014 model.

Have a look at both new Scions in the galleries above and below, and scroll down for the official press release.

Bolder and Better for Summer: 2015 Scion FR-S Improves Dynamics and Appearance

Extra Touches Added, New Pricing Announced, for 2015 FR-S and tC Models

TORRANCE, Calif., (May 15, 2014) – Everybody wants to look and feel their best for summer and the 2015 Scion FR-S is no exception. The new model year FR-S features enhanced tuning and improved looks while the 2015 tC sports coupe receives new colors and a sporty feature to bring on the summer fun. Both models will go on sale in early June with new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP).

"We're happy to bring the FR-S and tC into a new model year with features and prices that will excite our customers," Scion Vice President Doug Murtha said. "These two siblings come ready for drivers to make them their own and conquer new roads wherever they go."

Scion FR-S

The FR-S is known for its outstanding dynamics, which are taken to a new level for 2015. The 2015 Scion FR-S features better handling and stability thanks to a more rigid front suspension and re-tuning of the rear shock absorbers. The improved damping results in less body roll and a more communicative driving experience.

For better aerodynamics, the smooth look of a shark-fin antenna replaces the pole antenna found in previous models. The exhaust tips are now larger and more flush with the rear bumper. Inside the vehicle, drivers will notice the addition of auto on/off headlights and an updated interior panel with a carbon fiber look, as well as a new key design.

The 2015 Scion FR-S MSRP is $24,900 with a six-speed manual transmission or $26,000 with a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management® technology. Steel replaces Argento as a sleek silver color and Whiteout has been replaced by Halo, a pearl white available for an additional $395 fee.

Scion tC

Inside all 2015 tC vehicles with automatic transmissions drivers will now enjoy steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to enhance the sporty driving experience. Also for 2015 are two new colors; Cosmic Gray replaces Classic Silver and Super White has been replaced by Blizzard Pearl, which is available for an additional $395 fee.

The 2015 Scion tC MSRP is $19,210 with a six-speed manual transmission or $20,360 with a six-speed automatic transmission and Dynamic Rev Management® technology.

Scion Pricing Chart

SCION FR-S (MT) – $24,900
SCION FR-S (AT) – $26,000
SCION tC (MT) – $19,210
SCION tC (AT) – $20,360

All prices listed above exclude the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee of $755.

By Steven J. Ewing