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Cosworth announces Power Packages for Subaru BRZ, Scion FR-S with up to 380 hp [w/video]

Cosworth stands on the list of the most famous engine tuners in the world with its DFV engine engine dominating Formula One for a time in the '70s. So when it teases plans to take on the FA20 engine from Subaru and Toyota found in the BRZ, Scion FR-S and Toyota GT86 abroad, our interest is indeed piqued. Cosworth is promising to take the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder boxer engine from its current 200 horsepower all the way to 325 hp and even 380 hp in a future track version through a series of staged Power Packages. At the moment, only the first stage is available that takes the mill to a potent 230 hp.
Cosworth says that its new strategy is to offer its upgrades in kits rather than individually so that it can be sure that everything works and fits when owners receive it. The Stage 1 Power Package emphasizes helping the FA20 breathe better and includes a nearly complete replacement for the stock exhaust system. There is a sports exhaust with four-inch, diagonally cut, polished tips and Y-shaped muffler, an overpipe front pipe with a spherical resonator and a new manifold header that is 22 percent lighter the standard unit. In addition to that, the kit comes with a software reflash, low temperature thermostat, Cosworth badge and plaque.
The stage one kit is available now, and stages two and three go on sale later this summer, according to its website. Autoblog contacted Cosworth for pricing information for the kits. We will update this story, if we hear back. The company also released a video showing off the exhaust upgrades. Scroll down to watch it and read the full release, below.

2014 Scion tC taps into its inner FR-S

Cashing in on some of the excitement surrounding the FR-S, Scion has given its front-wheel drive coupe a refreshed look at the New York Auto Show. When the 2014 Scion tC shows up at dealers this June, the entry-level coupe with have an improved exterior styling to give the car a sportier appearance while also adding some new cabin tech and an updated six-speed automatic transmission.
The new face of the tC includes an oversized lower grille very similar to the FR-S, but reshaped headlights, hood and vertical lower accent lights also creates a more dynamic look for this budget-priced coupe. At the rear of the car, clear-lensed taillights and a blacked-out lower diffuser finishes the major styling changes. Inside, a new touchscreen audio system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, and the optional Scion BeSpoke Premium Audio includes navigation and Aha Internet radio app.
Building on the tC's sportier image, the automatic transmission adds a little extra excitement as well with a new manual shift mode and a rev-matching, throttle-blipping feature. For better driving dynamics, Scion also promises a more rigid body structure and enhanced suspension components. Scroll down to read all about the 2014 tC in the official press release.

Scion FR-S recalled for key interlock problem

The Basics: Scion will recall 26,000 examples of the 2013-2016 Scion FR-S. The Problem: Some models with the automatic transmission might not have the connection for the key interlock. On these vehicles, it would be possible for owners to remove the key, even if the gearshift isn't in Park. This condition puts the coupes out of compliance with federal rules. Injuries/Deaths: "We are not providing specifics at this time," Scion spokesperson Cindy Knight told Autoblog. The company's announcement makes no mention of injuries or deaths. The Fix: Scion dealers will inspect the vehicles and connect the key interlock if necessary. If You Own One: Owner notification will begin in early March, according to Knight. More Information: Autoblog reached out to Subaru to see if there would be a similar recall for the BRZ. "We've confirmed with our Quality Assurance dept. that the BRZ does not have that defect, as the issue is related to the work conducted during pre-delivery service prior to sale," company spokesperson Michael McHale said. Related Video: TOYOTA RECALLS CERTAIN SCION FR-S VEHICLES TORRANCE, Calif., February 9, 2016 – Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. today announced that it is conducting a safety recall of approximately 26,000 Model Year 2013-2016 Scion FR-S vehicles. In the involved vehicles, connectors for the automatic transmission key interlock on some vehicles may not have been connected during pre-delivery service prior to sale. If the delivery mode connectors are not connected, it is possible to remove the key in gear positions other than "Park", causing the vehicles not to comply with a portion of Federal/Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 114. This could increase the risk of vehicle rollaway and a crash. All known owners of the subject vehicles will be notified by first class mail and instructed to return the vehicle to a Toyota dealer to have the ignition key interlock function confirmed, and if necessary, delivery mode connectors connected at no charge. Information about automotive recalls, including but not limited to the list of involved vehicles, is subject to change over time. For the most up-to-date Safety Recall information on Lexus, Toyota and Scion customers should check their vehicle's status by visiting http://www.toyota.com/recall and entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Safety Recall inquiry by individual VIN is also available at the NHTSA site: safercar.gov/vin.