Let's dive into the history of the Scion FR-S and figure out exactly when its production run came to an end. For those who are car enthusiasts or simply curious about the iconic FR-S, understanding its timeline helps appreciate its place in automotive history. We'll explore the factors that led to its discontinuation and what happened afterward. So, when did Scion actually make the FR-S for the last time?

The Scion FR-S Production Timeline

The Scion FR-S was first introduced to the automotive market in 2012 as a 2013 model. It quickly gained popularity for its sporty handling, lightweight design, and affordability, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The FR-S, a joint venture between Toyota and Subaru, was designed to bring back the fun and excitement of classic sports cars. It featured a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, rear-wheel drive, and a well-balanced chassis that made it a joy to drive on both the street and the track.

Throughout its production run under the Scion brand, the FR-S saw several updates and minor improvements. These included cosmetic tweaks, interior enhancements, and some performance upgrades. However, the fundamental formula of the car—lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and a focus on driving pleasure—remained consistent. Scion aimed to attract a younger audience with the FR-S, and its relatively low price point and sporty appeal made it a hit with that demographic. The car was often praised for its responsive steering, nimble handling, and the engaging experience it offered to drivers of all skill levels.

The FR-S also benefited from a strong aftermarket support, with numerous companies offering performance parts and accessories. This allowed owners to customize their cars to their liking and further enhance their driving experience. Whether it was upgraded suspension components, performance exhaust systems, or aerodynamic enhancements, the FR-S became a canvas for automotive enthusiasts to express their creativity and passion. The car's popularity also led to the creation of numerous enthusiast communities and clubs, where owners could share their experiences and modifications.

The End of the Scion Brand

In 2016, Toyota made a significant announcement that would affect the future of the Scion FR-S: the Scion brand would be discontinued. This decision was part of a broader strategy to consolidate Toyota's product lineup and bring younger buyers back into the Toyota fold. The Scion brand, which was created in 2003, had initially succeeded in attracting a younger demographic with its unique models and marketing approach. However, over time, the brand lost its momentum, and Toyota decided that it would be more effective to integrate Scion's models into the Toyota lineup.

The decision to end the Scion brand was influenced by several factors, including changing market trends and the desire to streamline Toyota's operations. By bringing Scion's models under the Toyota banner, the company aimed to simplify its product offerings and reduce redundancies in marketing and distribution. This move also allowed Toyota to focus its resources on its core brand and its established reputation for reliability and quality. For the FR-S, this meant a transition from being a Scion model to becoming a Toyota model.

The transition was carefully planned to ensure a smooth integration of Scion's models into the Toyota lineup. Toyota recognized the importance of maintaining the unique identity and appeal of the FR-S, and efforts were made to preserve its character and driving dynamics. The company also worked to reassure existing Scion owners that their vehicles would continue to be supported and serviced under the Toyota brand. The end of the Scion brand marked a significant shift in Toyota's strategy, but it also presented an opportunity to revitalize its product lineup and strengthen its position in the automotive market.

2016: The Final Year as a Scion

The last year that the FR-S was produced as a Scion was 2016. This marked the end of an era for the FR-S under the Scion brand. After 2016, the car was rebranded as the Toyota 86, aligning it with the global nameplate for the same vehicle. This transition was part of Toyota's broader strategy to dissolve the Scion brand and integrate its models into the Toyota lineup. For enthusiasts, 2016 Scion FR-S models hold a special place as the final examples of this sports car bearing the Scion badge. The 2016 models are essentially the same mechanically as the earlier FR-S versions, retaining the same engaging driving dynamics and overall design that made the car popular.

The decision to rebrand the FR-S as the Toyota 86 was seen as a way to give the car a more mature and established identity. The Toyota 86 name was already used in other markets, and bringing it to North America helped to unify the car's branding worldwide. This move also allowed Toyota to leverage its existing marketing and distribution channels to promote the car more effectively. The transition was generally well-received by enthusiasts, who appreciated the car's continued availability and the recognition of its global identity.

Despite the change in branding, the core values of the FR-S remained intact. The Toyota 86 continued to offer the same fun-to-drive experience and affordable price point that had made the Scion FR-S so popular. Toyota made some minor updates to the car over the years, including cosmetic tweaks and performance enhancements, but the fundamental formula of the rear-wheel-drive sports car remained unchanged. The Toyota 86 continued to be a favorite among driving enthusiasts, and it helped to solidify Toyota's reputation for producing engaging and exciting cars.

Transition to Toyota 86

Following the discontinuation of the Scion brand, the FR-S was rebranded as the Toyota 86 starting with the 2017 model year. This move aligned the North American market with the rest of the world, where the car had always been known as the Toyota 86. The transition involved more than just a name change; the Toyota 86 received some updates to its styling, performance, and features, further distinguishing it from its Scion FR-S predecessor. The Toyota 86 continued the legacy of the FR-S, offering an affordable and engaging sports car experience to enthusiasts.

The rebranding of the FR-S as the Toyota 86 was a strategic decision by Toyota to consolidate its product lineup and streamline its marketing efforts. By bringing the car under the Toyota brand, the company could leverage its existing reputation for reliability and quality to attract a wider audience. The Toyota 86 also benefited from Toyota's extensive dealer network and service infrastructure, ensuring that owners had access to the support and resources they needed. The transition was carefully managed to ensure that the car's core values and driving dynamics remained intact, while also enhancing its appeal to a broader range of customers.

One of the key updates introduced with the Toyota 86 was a refreshed exterior design, which included a new front bumper, headlights, and taillights. These changes gave the car a more modern and aggressive appearance, aligning it with Toyota's evolving design language. The interior also received some minor updates, such as new seat upholstery and trim materials, to enhance the overall driving experience. In terms of performance, the Toyota 86 received some minor tweaks to its engine and suspension, resulting in improved handling and responsiveness. These updates helped to further differentiate the Toyota 86 from the Scion FR-S and solidify its position as a true sports car.

Legacy of the Scion FR-S

Even though the Scion FR-S no longer exists as a new car, its impact on the automotive world remains significant. It is remembered for its affordability, sporty handling, and the fun driving experience it offered. The FR-S helped to revive the affordable sports car segment and inspired other manufacturers to create similar models. Its legacy lives on through the Toyota 86, which continues to provide enthusiasts with an accessible and engaging sports car option.

The Scion FR-S played a crucial role in changing perceptions about affordable sports cars. Before its arrival, many sports cars were either too expensive or lacked the driving excitement that enthusiasts craved. The FR-S changed that by offering a well-balanced package of performance, handling, and affordability. It proved that you didn't need to spend a fortune to have a fun and engaging driving experience. This helped to democratize the sports car segment and make it accessible to a wider range of buyers. The FR-S also inspired other manufacturers to create their own affordable sports cars, leading to a resurgence of interest in this segment.

One of the key factors that contributed to the Scion FR-S's success was its focus on driving dynamics. The car was designed to be lightweight, nimble, and responsive, with a focus on providing the driver with a direct and engaging connection to the road. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and well-tuned suspension made it a joy to drive on both the street and the track. The FR-S also benefited from a strong aftermarket support, with numerous companies offering performance parts and accessories. This allowed owners to customize their cars to their liking and further enhance their driving experience. The legacy of the Scion FR-S lives on through the Toyota 86, which continues to offer the same fun-to-drive experience and affordable price point that made the original car so popular.

Continuing the Spirit

The Toyota 86 (now succeeded by the GR86) carries on the spirit of the Scion FR-S, ensuring that the legacy of affordable, fun-to-drive sports cars lives on. The GR86, with its updated engine and improved performance, represents the next chapter in this story. For those who appreciate the FR-S, the Toyota 86 and GR86 offer a continuation of the same driving experience with modern enhancements.

The Toyota GR86 represents a significant step forward in terms of performance and technology, while still maintaining the core values that made the Scion FR-S so popular. The GR86 features a more powerful engine, which provides a noticeable increase in acceleration and overall performance. It also boasts improved handling and braking, thanks to upgrades to its suspension and braking systems. The interior of the GR86 has also been updated with modern features and technology, making it a more comfortable and enjoyable place to spend time.

Despite these improvements, the Toyota GR86 still retains the same fun-to-drive character that made the Scion FR-S so appealing. It remains a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car with a focus on providing the driver with a direct and engaging connection to the road. The GR86 is a testament to the enduring appeal of affordable sports cars and a reminder that driving can still be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time sports car buyer, the Toyota GR86 offers a compelling package of performance, handling, and affordability.

In conclusion, the Scion FR-S was last produced in 2016, after which it transitioned to the Toyota 86. Its legacy as an affordable and fun sports car continues to influence the automotive world, with the Toyota 86 and GR86 carrying on its spirit.