The Scion FR-S Release Series 1.0 is almost a direct production version of the TRD project car shown this Spring with the Lexus LFA around Scion’s Epic marketing campaign events.

The prototype TRD Project Car and the production model are almost exactly the same outside, but the TRD project car wears wider rubber on different wheels, has a front-mounted intercooler of some kind, and a racing-prepped cabin.

TRD Project Car

The production RS1 looks just as good, and is amazing news for buyers looking for a showroom racer – modded and looking mean right from day one. This was a previous gripe of the Scion strategy: such a heavy emphasis on modding and DIY installed performance upgrades left the showroom cars looking pretty dull.

Yes, young shoppers love to mod. But they also like to see a well-done upgraded model, ready to  drive home that day.

Scion listened, and this RS1 really shows how great a stock machine can be.

2015 Scion FR-S RS1

The 2015 FR-S adds larger exhaust pipes and a few suspension tweaks to become the second-gen car — but most of the changes are very, very minor for 2015. The FR-S RS1 brings the 2015 improvements along.

But overall, even the updated 2015 car is nowhere near as cool and hip as the RS1. 1500 units will be available in total, with all painted in this striking yellow shade that has never previously been offered. Pricing is not yet set, but will be under $30,000 – per the official details below from Scion.

 

2015 Scion FR-S vs 2014 Scion FR-S

 

2015 Scion FR-S

 

2015 Scion FR-S RS1

TORRANCE, Calif., (April 16, 2014) – Scion FR-S fans, get ready for a modern take on the sports coupe’s racing roots. Scion revealed its FR-S Release Series 1.0 at the New York International Auto Show today, drawing on track heritage and the expertise of Toyota Racing Development (TRD).

The FR-S Release Series 1.0 will contain just 1,500 vehicles with a collection of enhanced features, including a custom-designed aero kit with a rear spoiler and side fender garnish. Additional highlights include the TRD Quad Tip Exhaust System, TRD lowering springs and Smart Key with Push Button Start. If all those additions aren’t enough to turn heads, the bright Yuzu exterior paint color will definitely catch some attention.

“It’s fitting that the first Scion FR-S Release Series draws on the rich motorsports history that inspired the FR-S design while standing out in new ways that will excite our drivers,” said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. “FR-S enthusiasts will appreciate the side spoilers and lowered stance that deliver a look and feel meant for the track, at a price meant for them.”

The series vehicles will come with either six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management® technology. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) will start under $30,000, excluding the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee of $755.

Additional FR-S Release Series 1.0 features include:

• TRD steering wheel

• TRD shift knob

• Black seats with T-pattern

• HID headlamps with LED daytime running lights

• Dual auto AC

• TRD logo cargo mat

Each vehicle will feature its sequential release series badge (1 of 1500) inlayed on its brushed aluminum shifter surround plate. The cars are expected to arrive in dealerships in August.

For more information about the FR-S Release Series 1.0, visit www.scion.com/FRSRS.