Demandred7's Firestorm FR-S
 

I have just signed the paperwork on my Firestorm FR-S. This is my first chance to put some thoughts down about the whole experience. I had requested test drives at 3 of the local Scion dealerships. I know it sounds like sacrilege, but, I had requested an automatic; firstly because I absolutely suck at driving stick and secondly because of the odd occasion where I have consumed a few too many drinks and require my wife to drive (who also can't drive stick to save her life either).

I received an email from Guelph Scion saying that they have one on the lot on Wednesday. Unfortunately, I was in the middle of staining the deck and I had thought that I had missed the opportunity to drive it as apparently the FR-S has been flying off the lot within hours of becoming available. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was still available on Thursday. From the beginning, both my "Scion Champion" (who was was very good to have put a sold sign on it as soon as I expressed an interest in following it through and appreciating the car for what it is) and Finance Manager (who also owns a Raven FR-S with sweet looking Five Axis low profile spoiler) were welcoming and enthusiastic about the vehicle.

First impressions were even better than I had ever anticipated (and I had some pretty lofty expectations). I was skeptical of the transmission after my experience with my current car (Corolla XRS), which would always switch into 4th regardless of what gear it should be in and switches gears only after it thinks about it. By comparison the FR-S, is so immediate and even the feel of both the traditional shifter as well as the paddle shifters have a real solid feel to them. The chassis is pleasantly firm and for anyone who says that 200 hp is not enough - what do you expect for the price point. Furthermore, from what I have heard, if you are that hungry for power - just wait - TRD will have something for you soon enough (along with all the accessories that you may be craving). Everyone knows the back seat is best for temporary use only, but, it is possible to put a car seat in the back (as I later found out (my wife and I tried it (although a booster seat would work far better)).

The next day I brought my wife to get a chance to test drive it too. What was the clincher was the better than expected trade-in value they were willing to give me for my Corolla. I wasn't originally planning on getting Firestorm, but, I have to say that it looks far better in person and not under fluorescent lights. Also, the prospect of waiting for about 3 months to get another colour really did not appeal to me (plus I like how the red seat inserts match the exterior colour). An unexpected perk was that the insurance is actually cheaper than on my Corolla.

So, now I have to wait till Monday after work to pick it up. At which time I will try to put up some pics (Tuesday at the latest).

Nice... Glad to hear you found the FR-S which works for you... Firestorm FTW!

First photo post
 

First photo post. Had to find work around since original file was beyond the forum's size limitations. Hopefully it looks half decent.

Okay, it has been way too long since my last post. I have to say that I love the attention that I get with this car. I have done absolutely nothing to the car yet and it is amazing the amount of complete strangers that strike up conversations me. Even when I drive around, people seem to be checking the car out. Most don't have a clue as to what it is. Those that know it is a Toyota, have asked if it is the new Supra.
With respect to my friends that know what it is, they question the practicality of such a vehicle, I tell them that they should drive one and come to the same realization that I did - I was tired of my car being an appliance and this car has brought back the fun of driving. I long for a longer commute and look for errands to run.
Ironically, I feel like I have barely scratched the surface of what this car can do. Turns that I used to have to slow down for are now completely effortless at those original speeds and I find myself pushing harder than I ever thought possible.
Okay, sometimes things that used to be easy, have a whole new challenge to them and most of them have to do with space or how low to the ground it is. Drive through windows now seem to tower over the car and some items are just too big for the trunk. Nevertheless, I will gladly take these shortcomings in exchange for the benefits that I gain.
I love driving again.

I hear you about the appliance thing (what I'm currently driving now) after several fun cars in a row I needed something practical...but the FRS will fix all that soon enough :D

Nothing wrong with practical. All of us have been there. My wife and I have both extremes. Our other vehicle is a Toyota Sienna SE (aka the "swagger wagon").

Some better pics
 

Finally was able to get some better pics with an actual camera. Had to still do a little work around to get them down to an acceptable size. Tinting is booked for next monday. Going with 35% all around with the thought that the minor tint from the factory will most likely land it around 31% or so. Also with the thought that it shouldn't be an issue with the OPP (Ontario Provincial Police (for those that don't live in Ontario or Canada for that matter)) and it should also retain decent nighttime visibility.

Looks sweet! Hopefully the fuzz won't ding me for my tint. I've had 20% for the sides and 5% for the rear, on my last 4 cars. Never been an issue.

Problem is that in Ontario, there is no percentage that is the defining line of too much tint (wish there was), the Officer (as far as I know) has his or her own discretion on what is too much (which is why I never argue with or be overly friendly with the so called "fuzz"). I tried to find what the limit is, but, could find no mention of it other than the above discretionary powers. Perhaps one of the forum's other members is more educated on the topic.
I had been toying with going to 30 percent all around and with the factory "hint of tint" might bring it down to 26 or so (again I am no expert (I have had only one car with tint and I bought it pre-owned with tint)). I am still open minded about it and welcome anyone to chime in (bearing in mind the factors of police and nighttime visibility).

I find night time visibility better with tint. Especially the 5% at the rear. It shades the lights of people behind you. I never need to flip the rearview mirror down, and I can still see what's behind me. When you do flip the mirror down (in cars without tint) it's so dark you can't see what's behind you at all.
The tint on the side windows helps when turning out of a parking lot. The oncoming traffic isn't blinding.
30% will still look great on that red!

That 5% extra is tempting. Still on the fence though.
http://www.9thgencivic.com/forum/att...int-levels.jpg

I have been also contemplating (read "waffling") between going to a shorty antenna or going to the shark fin. As many others have done so far, I have opted for the Beat Sonic shark fin. To my eye, it has a more upscale look. I will take some more pics once it comes in, but, I am not sure when that will be as I just ordered it about an hour ago. Unfortunately, I missed out on the Group Buy, but to justify it to myself (and my wife), I am calling it an early birthday present.

Just dropped the car off for tinting. I had thought to go with 35 and I said that when I booked the appointment, but, I was still on the fence about it. Just got a call from the tint shop asking like Regis Philbin, is 35 your final answer (He had originally asked if I wanted to go to 30). After talking it through with him and some feedback from Slartibartfast I said "alright let's go for it". I think a lot of the change of heart was based on not wanting pay for it and then feel it wasn't dark enough. I am still a little paranoid about unwanted police attention, but, the gentleman said there isn't a huge difference between 30 and 35 until the cumulative effect of all the windows kicks in and that you can still see through to the other side of the car. Plus the consensus was that the Firestorm red would look better with the 30. I am excited to see the results of both the darkness and presumably quality workmanship. Hopefully it stops raining so I can snap some pics.

The results
 

Well, here are the results. They are dark (at least on a cloudy and rainy day). Need some sun to let them cure and to see how they look with more intense light. My first impressions are that I like the look that it takes on with this level of tint; although, I wouldn't go any darker. This car already attracts a lot of attention - I just don't want it to be the police. I think 30 definitely affords quite a bit of privacy. I will be able to observe some night time driving tonight.

Nice tint level. ceramic or metallic? also nice Sienna

It is only metallic. Thanks regarding the Swagger Wagon. I am a little biased, but, I think it is the best looking van out there when you get the SE version.

First, an update regarding the tint. I was a little late getting home from work Monday night and as soon as my head hit the pillow, I was down for the count and then forgot to update. Anyway, night time visibility is decent, so, no concerns there. I did however notice some imperfections in the tint. The tint shop said that it can take as long as two weeks for all of it to cure properly (depending on the weather) and not to touch it and see them in two weeks if there are still issues. And for all of you about to say "they just want you to forget or not bother following up", don't worry, I will.

I let the car bake in the sun for both Tues and Wed and 75-80% of the imperfections cleared themselves up. Took a drive by the tint shop today (Wed) and tied in with them and discussed the remaining imperfections and received reassurances that patience is the best course of action. There is a lifetime warranty on the tint anyway, so, I have the luxury of time (my thoughts, not their words).

The Beat Sonic shark fin antenna arrived yesterday from Japan (supposedly yesterday (neither my wife nor I heard any knock or doorbell (Thanks Canada Post))). Went over to the Post office today and picked it up. Once I got it home, I have to say that I was pretty impressed at the packaging. I thought that I would take a photo of it in the box, but who am I kidding, I am not the first person to buy one of these things. Anyway, ran out of time to install before work tonight, so, install will most likely be tomorrow. I will take some pics once it is installed.

And finally on a completely different tangent, I was playing with the radio during my driving around today and discovered the ASR feature (not to be confused with ASL). The acronymn is misleading, but, its impact to any mp3/ipod music is worthwhile mentioning. I have tuned the stock radio to the "Feel" category so that it pumps out some decent bass, but, it seemed to be lacking some mid-range depth. However, by turning on ASR, it noticeably fills out the mid-range sounds. Quite a pleasant surprise of a find (I guess I should get around to reading the manual for both the radio and the car). I have to say that despite its not so attractive appearance, the stock head unit is quite useable and sounds good (once you figure out its features).

First DIY
 

Well, this is my first DIY - the Beat Sonic shark fin antenna. The install is pretty simple other than the lining it up part. I was ultra paranoid because it is quite difficult to correct once on there. One thing that I noticed before the install which I knew would make things a little more complicated was that the original base of the RC antenna was not 100% straight in the first place (sorry I didn't take a picture of that). Anyway, I got it as good as I could get it. The last pic in the series appears like it is misaligned, but, when I view it in person, I don't see that it is, perhaps it is just the way that the light hits it. Anyway, I certainly think that it has a much better look than the original antenna.

Your car looks great and thanks soooooooooo much for the tint chart. I'm on the same fence your were on. The 30% looks great!

I'm loving that color!

Tint and shark fin look awesome!

Thanks, it is so hard to pick between the two based off of the tiny samples that they have at the tint shops. I totally stumbled on the chart after a google image search, but, since I found it useful, I thought others might too. On a sunny day 30 is perfect. On cloudy days (or in the shade), you really notice the difference between 30 and 35.

The red really grows on you. Ironically, it wasn't my first pick, but in hindsight, it should have been up there in my top colours of choice.

Me too. And the black and red combo looks awesome.

I have seen some that have gone to extreme with the black and red combo by tinting their tail lights and side markers. I have to say the side markers are tempting, but, I would be too worried about someone ramming into the back of me if I tinted the tail lights.

I was thinking of fog lights and a spoiler as next steps, but, it might end up being only a spoiler. I have to save up for that one though and then there is the decision to go with the GT86 OE style or something more like the Five Axis. My best friend says "skip the spoiler all together" for a cleaner look. This car somewhat reminds me of the Acura RSX that I had in that it can get away with or without a spoiler.

I have tinted the front and side turn signals. Not planning on the rear as I think the red blends in nicely with the firestorm. I will be getting 5AD rear spoiler next week. will take pics of the setup then.

I feel like a superhero in this car. I find myself wanting someone to tailgate me so that I can absolutely fly through a roundabout at twice the speed that they are either capable of going or willing to go. It is a guilty pleasure. This car has a limitless appetite for curves. I know, I know, most of you are saying, "thank you captain obvious," but, seriously when you come from a regular appliance of a car, you never knew what you were missing until you have driven this car.

:mad0260::mad0260::mad0260::mad0260::mad0260:
Came out of the Walmart at Fairview Mall only to find some prick driving a POS Montana parked entirely too close and dented my passenger side door. If there wasn't any witnesses I was sorely tempted to throttle his car with my fist. I am so pissed!!! Took a picture of his plate instead (for all the good it will do me). My perfect door now has a small dent/crease. I will talk to some shops and people that might know what to do, but, right now I just wish I had seen the mother f*#$?er and knocked his lights out. :mad0260::mad0260::mad0260::mad0260::mad0260:

I don't know about you but I would not be taking my car to Walmart let alone anywhere close to the carts in that lot or soccer moms with minivans....you should of parked the furthest from the door you know soccer moms\dads are not parking out in the booneys

I had thought about that, but, I have heard on the forum about people's FR-S' being vandalized when parked in the boonies too. I guess you can't win either way. And it looks even worse in broad daylight. I hope something they have worked hard for gets ruined too.

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

(insert Darth Vader pic)

I haven't got my first ding yet. I know it will hurt when I do get one. Sorry to hear about yours.

Thanks for the chuckle, I can't say that I would have laughed that night, but, I am slowly getting over the initial rage I had that night. Probably some fat Walmartian that could barely get out of their car fast enough to satisfy a Big Mac attack at 8 o'clock at night.

Passenger side door dent all fixed up now. A friend of mine has some skills wrt body repairs. I probably should have taken some before and after pictures, but, honestly I wasn't that enthusiastic about showing off the dent. Nevertheless, it is all fixed up now and I cannot even see that it ever happened. I feel a lot better now that it is taken care of. It was pretty fascinating to watch it being fixed too.
Update on another front - only 161 km till break in is done.....:burnrubber:

I feel like I am on countdown mode - 97 more km to go until break in is done.
:happyanim:

It isn't the greatest pic, but, I was trying to take one when it was at exactly 1600 km, and I just happen to have accidentally taken one at a very appropriate speed. I normally would have trashed it based on the blur alone. I guess it was fate. I have two other pics of far better quality, but, at different speeds.

Gave her more than I have up to now. For all of the people that say this car is slow - what crack are you on?

Interesting note - unless it was pure circumstance, the AT will not redline unless in manual mode.

How I have missed you redline. :burnrubber:

I have been toying with the idea of a Flossy shift knob. Kinda set on the 86 logo, but, still not cut in stone yet.

Looking for some opinions about colour - black or red.

Also, for those of you familiar with the product, I have also been trying to figure out whether to go to the regular size or the shorty.

There is also the matter of weight. Please also bear in mind that I drive an AT.

And then there is the matter of the exhaust. The first one is the DC Sport 1013 and the the second one is the JDM OE style. Unfortunately, the JDM OE (while looking better) is almost 3x the cost.

Thanks to ebhopal for the pic of the DC sport tips. He happens to have a Firestorm with those tips. Not stalking you, but, loving the look of his ride.

When coming into work today, they had an FR-S with the 5 Axis body kit and 19" wheels. I have been skeptical in the past, but, in person - Wow! Loving the look, not so much loving the price. There is just too much I want to add to the car and not nearly enough money to go around.

More :respekt: for fellow forum member ebhopal for his 5 axis body kit that looks just like the one on display at work except the one at work was Argento.

Well, I finally made the decision. I just couldn't part with nearly $200 for exhaust tips. I went with the DC Sport EX-1013's. Pep Boys don't ship to Canada and had to use Amazon.com at a third of the cost of what the JDM OE would cost. Either way, I will probably get the good ol' :slap: from my wife for even spending $66 let alone $200. JK, but, not far off the mark.

Thanks man!! I was just like you when it came to the exhaust tips. At first I was going to buy the JDM ones but then I saw someone here on the forums with the DC Sport EX-1013's (no sure who) and I changed my mind. I didn't wanna pay 200 bucks just for tips!