(April 21, 2011) NEW YORK — Scion has been known for funky little cars since Toyota introduced the brand more than a decade ago. The more traditional two-door sports coupe tC is the lone exception.

But Scion soon will head in a new sporting direction. That was made very clear on Wednesday when Scion unveiled the rear-wheel drive FR-S Concept sports coupe at the New York International Auto Show. The FR-S Concept, Toyota says, will inspire a new model coming to the Scion brand next year.

The FR-S Concept — which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport — is Scion's definition of an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports car with compelling style, exceptionally balanced performance and handling, flexible utility and surprising mpg.

"Scion is always experimenting with new things," said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president. "The brand is iconic with the xB, adrenalized by the tC, and groundbreaking with the iQ. The FR-S will expand the brand into yet another new dimension that I know it is truly destined for."

Inspired by the AE86, the FR-S is built around the core goal of achieving "pure balance," which begins with the strategic placement of a flat 2.0-liter boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration, Scion says. The engine's compact size and shape allows the FR-S' powertrain to be mounted lower and further back towards the rear,  giving the car a lower center of gravity and a dynamically favorable front-to-rear weight ratio.

The FR-S' naturally-aspirated engine is innovative, being the first boxer to incorporate Toyota's D4-S injection system, which utilizes both direct and port injection, resulting in increased horsepower and torque throughout the entire powerband, without sacrificing mpg. No horsepower or torque ratings were provided.

The flat-four can mate with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

"Akio Toyoda has mentioned that he is going to bring the fun-to-drive spirit back to Toyota," Hollis said.  "I know that the Scion FR-S Concept is one of the ways that he plans to accomplish that."

Get the highlights of the New York Auto Show at MotorwayAmerica's Auto Show's section.