First Scion FR-S crash reported in the US within weeks of launch
A new Scion FR-S suffered a front-end crash in the United States after the driver pressed the clutch instead of the brake at low speed.
A Scion FR-S has been involved in what appears to be the first reported crash of the model in the United States, just weeks after the car reached American showrooms. The incident occurred at low speed when the driver lost control and struck a telephone pole.
According to posts on the FT86 Club forum, the crash took place while the FR-S was travelling at around 20 mph. The driver, reportedly unfamiliar with the car, panicked and pressed the clutch pedal instead of the brake as the car approached a telephone pole. This mistake left the driver unable to slow down in time, resulting in a front-end collision.
Images shared by the owner on the forum show substantial damage to the front of the car, with the bumper, bonnet and one wing visibly crumpled. The crash demonstrates the vulnerability of lightweight sports cars to even low-speed impacts, especially early in their time on the road when drivers are still acclimatising to the controls.
Scion FR-S launch and specifications
The Scion FR-S, a rear-wheel-drive coupe developed jointly by Toyota and Subaru, had only just begun US deliveries in June 2012. It shares its platform and mechanicals with the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86. The car is powered by a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder boxer engine, producing 200 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 6,600 rpm. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.
| Engine | 2.0-litre flat-four (boxer) |
|---|---|
| Power | 200 hp @ 7,000 rpm |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft @ 6,600 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
Driver and community reaction
The owner expressed regret on the FT86 Club forum, describing the shock of seeing his new car damaged so soon after purchase. He apologised to other FR-S owners and said the incident had been a difficult lesson. Early adopters of new models often share their experiences online, and this crash has already prompted discussion among enthusiasts about familiarising themselves with the car’s controls and characteristics.
Low-speed crashes and safety considerations
While the crash occurred at a relatively low speed, the visible deformation to the FR-S’s front structure highlights the importance of crumple zones in absorbing energy. No injuries were reported, reinforcing the role of passive safety measures even in minor accidents. Early reports like this are often scrutinised by other owners and prospective buyers, but there is no evidence to suggest any design fault contributed to the crash.
For more on early incidents involving new performance cars in the US, see thefirst 2015 Ford Mustang crash reported in Texas.
