2013 Scion FR-S Ground Clearance

The 2013 Scion FR-S offers a ground clearance of 4.9 inches.
Written by Amber Reed
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
background
With a ground clearance of just 4.9 inches, the 2013 Scion FR-S is only suitable for driving on paved roads and highways. Taking it off road could result in major damage.
If you’re shopping for a used sports car, you’re probably focused on specs like engine performance, power, transmission, and speed—but ground clearance, or the space between the car and the ground, determines whether or not you’ll be able to drive your car in the snow or on uneven roads.
Thinking about buying a 2013 Scion FR-S? In this useful guide from
top-rated
broker app and
car insurance
expert
Jerry
, we’ll talk about ground clearance specs, why they’re important, and how to find affordable car insurance for your new ride.
icon
Make safe driving pay
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning now

2013 Scion FR-S ground clearance

The 2013 Scion FR-S was only available in a single trim and offered just 4.9 inches of ground clearance. While this measurement is about average for a sports car, it’s much lower than what you’d find on a crossover or truck.

Scion FR-S ground clearance over the years

Like most sports cars, all Scion FR-S cars offer low ground clearance—but they might sit slightly higher or lower depending on the model year and trim. Here’s how the Scion FR-S ground clearance breaks down by year:
  • 2013: 4.9 inches
  • 2014: 4.9 inches
  • 2015: 3.8 to 4.9 inches
  • 2016: 3.8 to 4.9 inches
Keep in mind that when it comes to sports cars, low ground clearance can be an advantage. Less space between the underside of your car and ground offers better aerodynamics and handling, making your vehicle less likely to roll over when taking turns at high speeds.

What is ground clearance—and why does it matter?

Technically speaking, ground clearance measures the distance between the lowest part of your car’s chassis and the ground. Since no one’s buying a Scion FR-S to go off-roading, you might be wondering why you should care about ground clearance at all. But even if you have no intention of ever leaving the paved roads, knowing exactly how much space there is under your car has a few advantages. 
Not only does it help you decide whether it’s safe to drive your car over speed bumps or potholes, it can also determine how likely you are to get stuck during inclement weather. While the Scion FR-S might be able to handle light flurries, you shouldn’t try to maneuver your way through deeper snow.
icon
Make safe driving pay
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning now
rating reverse-full
"I’m earning
awesome rewards
every week, just for driving safe!”

Is the 2013 Scion FR-S a good off-road vehicle?

No, the 2013 Scion FR-S should never be used for off-roading. With just 4.9 inches of ground clearance, the 2013 Scion FR-S doesn’t come close to the recommended 8.5 inches of clearance needed for safe off-roading. In fact, the FR-S sits so low that even dirt roads or gravel could cause dents or dings, and more intense trails are sure to result in massive damage to its undercarriage, transmission, or tires.
If you absolutely need your car to be able to do some very light off roading (think flat and well-maintained dirt roads) you can talk to your mechanic about installing aftermarket mods like a lift kit or skid plate—but trying to drive a FR-S over rocky terrain or through mud would get you nothing but a lot of expensive repair bills.
If you’re looking to combine speed and performance with better off road capability, check out the
Audi SQ8
instead. This luxury SUV can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, while offering a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

How to find cheap Scion FR-S insurance

Keeping your Scion FR-S on paved roads is one way to protect it, but shopping with
Jerry
for
car insurance
coverage is another. 
The Jerry app is a licensed broker that offers end-to-end support through the whole process of buying and securing new car insurance. Browse a customized, comprehensive cross-analysis of the best policies across providers, tap your top pick, and sit back while Jerry handles the rest. We’ll take care of everything from the phone calls and paperwork to helping you cancel your old policy.
“I usually hate all the phone calls that come with getting car insurance quotes, but with
Jerry
I was able to do everything over text. I went from $224 with my previous provider to $193 with Nationwide. Such a relief!” —Gabby P. 
RECOMMENDED
Thousands of customers saved on average $887/year on their car insurance with Jerry
This app is great, but the customer service is even better! Not to mention convenient! My husband and I got the lowest rate (much lower than the rates I was finding online through my own searches), quickly, and pretty much all through text message! Thank you so much for a hassle free experience👍
avatar
Gabriella R.
Find insurance savings
rating primary
4.7/5 Rating on App Store
Are you overpaying for car insurance?
Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.
Try Jerry

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings