The 2013 Scion FRS is a legendary car among sports car enthusiasts. It's celebrated for its nimble handling, responsive steering, and overall fun-to-drive character. But when diving into what makes this car tick, one question always pops up: What's the stock horsepower of the 2013 Scion FRS? Let's get into the details of the 2013 Scion FRS engine and its power output.

Horsepower and Engine Specs of the 2013 Scion FRS

The 2013 Scion FRS is equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder boxer engine. This engine, co-developed by Subaru and Toyota, is known for its high-revving nature and balanced performance. The key figures you're probably looking for are the horsepower and torque numbers. The 2013 Scion FRS boasts a stock horsepower of 200 hp at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 6,400 rpm. These numbers might not sound like much compared to today's high-performance cars, but it's crucial to remember that the FRS was designed with a focus on balance and driving experience rather than outright power. The engine's flat-four configuration contributes to a low center of gravity, enhancing the car's handling capabilities.

Furthermore, the engine features Toyota's D-4S direct and port injection system, which optimizes fuel delivery for improved efficiency and power output. This technology ensures that the engine runs smoothly and responds quickly to throttle inputs. The combination of these features makes the 2013 Scion FRS a joy to drive, whether you're carving up twisty roads or just cruising around town. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is preferred by enthusiasts for its direct feel and engaging driving experience, while the automatic offers convenience and smoother shifts. Both transmissions are well-suited to the engine's characteristics, providing good acceleration and fuel economy.

Why Horsepower Isn't Everything

While the 200 horsepower figure is often the headline, it's important to consider the overall package that the 2013 Scion FRS offers. The car's lightweight construction, precise steering, and well-tuned suspension contribute significantly to its engaging driving dynamics. The FRS weighs in at around 2,750 pounds, which is relatively light for a modern sports car. This low weight allows the 200 horsepower to feel more potent, as the car doesn't have to work as hard to accelerate. Moreover, the FRS's suspension is designed to provide a balance between comfort and performance. It's firm enough to keep the car planted in corners but also compliant enough to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road. This makes the FRS a comfortable daily driver as well as a capable track car.

The steering is another highlight of the FRS. It's quick, precise, and provides excellent feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. The steering ratio is well-chosen, making the car feel nimble and responsive without being overly sensitive. This contributes to the car's overall sense of balance and control. In addition to its performance attributes, the 2013 Scion FRS also offers a stylish and sporty design. The car's low-slung silhouette, aggressive front fascia, and sleek lines give it a distinctive look that stands out from the crowd. The interior is simple and functional, with a focus on the driving experience. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and the controls are easy to reach and use.

Modifying the 2013 Scion FRS for More Power

Okay, so the stock horsepower is 200. But what if you're like many FRS owners and you're itching for more power? The aftermarket support for the Scion FRS is huge, meaning there are tons of ways to extract additional horsepower from that trusty boxer engine. Many owners opt for simple bolt-on modifications, such as an aftermarket intake, exhaust system, or ECU tune. These modifications can often add a modest amount of horsepower and torque, improving the car's overall performance.

For those looking for more significant gains, forced induction is a popular option. Supercharger and turbocharger kits are available for the FRS, and these can dramatically increase horsepower and torque. However, forced induction also requires careful tuning and supporting modifications to ensure that the engine remains reliable. It's important to work with a reputable tuner and choose high-quality components when adding forced induction to your FRS. Another option for increasing power is to modify the engine's internals. Upgrading the pistons, connecting rods, and camshafts can allow the engine to rev higher and produce more power. However, this type of modification is more complex and expensive than bolt-on upgrades or forced induction. It's typically reserved for enthusiasts who are building a dedicated track car or want to push the limits of the engine's performance. Regardless of the route you choose, it's important to do your research and plan carefully before modifying your FRS for more power. Consider your budget, your goals for the car, and the potential impact on reliability. With the right modifications, you can transform your FRS into an even more capable and exciting sports car.

Driving Experience and Overall Impression

Numbers aside, the driving experience is where the 2013 Scion FRS truly shines. The combination of rear-wheel drive, a lightweight chassis, and a responsive engine makes it incredibly fun to drive. It’s a car that encourages you to push it to its limits, and it rewards you with precise handling and predictable behavior. The FRS is equally at home on a twisty back road or a race track, and it's a great car for learning and improving your driving skills. The car's communicative chassis and responsive steering make it easy to feel what the car is doing, allowing you to make precise adjustments and maintain control. The FRS is also a great car for drifting, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive layout and predictable handling. However, it's important to practice drifting in a safe and controlled environment, such as a race track or skid pad.

The 2013 Scion FRS is a well-rounded sports car that offers a lot of value for the money. It's not the most powerful car on the market, but its balanced performance, engaging driving dynamics, and stylish design make it a standout in its class. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a new driver, the FRS is sure to put a smile on your face. Its affordability and extensive aftermarket support make it a great platform for customization and personalization. You can easily modify the car to suit your individual tastes and needs, whether you're looking for more power, improved handling, or a more aggressive appearance. The FRS is also a practical car for daily driving, with a comfortable interior and decent fuel economy. It's a car that you can enjoy every day, not just on weekends or special occasions.

Conclusion: The Charm of the 2013 Scion FRS

So, circling back to the original question, the 2013 Scion FRS delivers 200 stock horsepower. However, the FRS is more than just a number. Its charm lies in its balanced driving experience, making it a beloved choice for sports car fans. If you're considering picking one up, remember that while more power is always tempting, the FRS offers a fantastic foundation that's enjoyable right out of the box. It's a car that rewards skilled drivers and encourages them to improve their abilities. The FRS is also a car that's easy to live with, thanks to its comfortable interior, decent fuel economy, and reliable mechanicals. It's a car that you can enjoy every day, not just on special occasions.

Ultimately, the 2013 Scion FRS is a testament to the idea that you don't need a ton of horsepower to have a blast behind the wheel. It's a car that's all about the driving experience, and it delivers that in spades. Whether you're carving up mountain roads, drifting around corners, or just cruising around town, the FRS is sure to put a smile on your face. So go ahead, take one for a spin and experience the magic for yourself!