[Demandred7]

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).