Review Toyota FR-S Concept or Toyota 86 2012 First look

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Now that the Scion FR-S has been unveiled in North America and we’ve had a chance to examine her curves, I thought it would be a cool idea to go back to the FR-S Concept to compare how different the production model came out to be.  Naturally, car companies can’t produce such extreme looking cars for mass consumption; they have to decide on a delicate balance of cutting edge and acceptable, so as not to shy away potential buyers.  I took the following detailed images of the FR-S at the LA Auto Show for us to compare with.  Click past the break to start.

I don’t think there were too many of us who really thought they’d stick with such a wild rear diffuser, although most of us wish they had.  One thing I thought they would stay more true to was the taillights.  Unfortunately, that was not the case.  Instead of the sleek, all red, triangular shaped lights on the concept, we get a strange lower-case ‘b’ shaped half cleared arrangement.  I really dislike the taillights on the production model…

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In place of the single lug 20″ wheels, we receive a gracious 17″ 5 lug setup.  Pretty much what I expected there, which is great actually.  You’ll notice the more pronounced lines of the concept are gone as well, in exchange for a smoother and more practical body style.

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Although I wish they would have stuck with a more similar headlight/taillight combination to the concept, I the front of the production version came out very nice…

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While less detailed, the production FR-S still maintains a similar front fascia.

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So, after seeing the Scion FR-S, the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ, what are your thoughts?  Did the manufactuers stay true to their own individual concepts, or could they have done a better job?  Also, are all three models essentially the same car?  Will it be popular and profitable?  There are still many questions surrounding this platform and I can’t wait to see how it turns out.  Happy December everyone!