The sports car scene is revving up with the arrival of the 2017 Toyota 86, formerly known as the Scion FR-S. Unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, this rebranded model isn’t just a name change; it’s a significant evolution boasting enhanced aesthetics, refined interiors, and boosted performance. For enthusiasts who cherished the Scion FR-S, the Toyota Frs 2017 emerges as a more mature and compelling offering, carrying forward the legacy while stepping into a new era under the Toyota banner.
The transition from Scion to Toyota marks more than just a badge swap. Bill Fay, Toyota Division Group Vice President, highlighted the decision to embrace the global “86” name, resonating with enthusiasts who deeply appreciate the heritage of front-engine, rear-drive dynamics synonymous with the ‘hachi-roku’ lineage. Alongside the Toyota FRS 2017, other former Scion models, the Corolla iM and Yaris iA, also joined the Toyota family, streamlining Toyota’s small car lineup.
Revamped Exterior Design
The 2017 Toyota 86 makes a bold statement with its refreshed exterior. A wider center intake immediately commands attention, amplifying the car’s low and wide stance. The front fascia is completely redesigned, featuring reconfigured LED headlamps and turn signals that lend a sharper, more modern gaze. The bumper is also revised, contributing to a more aggressive and aerodynamic profile. Moving to the rear, LED tail lamps and a newly sculpted bumper echo the front’s assertive styling. Completing the exterior transformation are newly designed alloy wheels with a distinctive twisted spoke pattern. Subtle yet significant “86” logos are integrated as fender badges and within the front headlamps, solidifying its identity.
Interior Enhancements and Driver-Focused Cabin
Stepping inside the Toyota FRS 2017, you’ll find an interior that balances sporty aesthetics with enhanced tactile appeal. The “86” logo is tastefully embossed on the instrument panel surround, now crafted from a new “Grandlux” material, adding a touch of premium質感. This same soft-touch material extends to the door trim, elevating the cabin’s ambiance. New seating material, adorned with silver stitching, provides both visual flair and enhanced comfort. The driver-centric cockpit is further enhanced by a new sporty steering wheel, integrating audio controls for convenience and featuring the “86” logo at its center, reinforcing the car’s sporty DNA.
Performance Upgrades for a Sharper Drive
Beyond aesthetics, the 2017 Toyota FRS, now the 86, benefits from tangible performance upgrades. Revised shock tuning and a spring rate change contribute to enhanced control and more agile handling dynamics. Enthusiasts opting for the manual transmission will appreciate further enhancements, including a gear ratio change and an increase in torque to 156 lb.-ft. Power also sees a bump to 205 hp, delivering a more responsive and engaging driving experience. To further aid driver confidence, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) is now included, preventing rollback on inclines.
The Toyota FRS 2017’s spirit of performance extends beyond the showroom and onto the track. The new Toyota 86 continues to be a prominent figure in Formula Drift, championed by racers like Ken Gushi and Ryan Tuerck. These drivers, alongside series champion Frederic Aasbo, are tasked with defending the SR by Toyota race team’s 2015 Manufacturers’ Championship, showcasing the inherent performance capabilities of the Toyota FRS 2017 platform.
Glimpse into the Future: Toyota C-HR Concept
Sharing the spotlight with the Toyota FRS 2017 at the New York Auto Show was the Toyota C-HR Concept. This concept car offers a preview of Toyota’s foray into the compact crossover segment. The production version of the C-HR, slated for release later in the year as a 2018 model, promises to bring a fresh and stylish option to the market. Bill Fay emphasized the excitement surrounding the C-HR, predicting its success in a highly competitive segment. The C-HR, denoting Compact size and High Ride height, is designed to resonate with “yuccies” – young urban creatives – seeking a functional yet stylish vehicle. Built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA), the C-HR promises a lower center of gravity, enhanced rigidity, and a refined driving experience, blending urban agility with responsive handling, as envisioned by Chief Engineer Hiro Koba, a weekend race track enthusiast.
In conclusion, the 2017 Toyota 86, evolving from the Scion FR-S, represents a significant step forward for this beloved sports car. With its enhanced design, refined interior, and performance upgrades, the Toyota FRS 2017 is poised to captivate both long-time fans and new enthusiasts alike, while Toyota also hints at an exciting future with the upcoming C-HR.
