William Maley

Chevrolet hopes to reverse their fortunes in the midsize sedan class with the introduction of 2016 Malibu at the New York Auto Show. The new sedan is larger, efficient, and more technologically advanced than the Malibu it replaces. The 2016 Malibu takes a lot of the design ideas found on the Impala and goes a bit further. Up front are slimmer headlights with higher trim models getting LED daytime running lights and a distinctive take on the brand's dual-port grille. Along the side are three creases which help give the Malibu an identity of its own. More importantly, Chevrolet increased overall length by 2.3 inches (191.5 to 193. 8 and wheelbase by 3.6 inches (107.8 to 111.4). The Malibu's interior has been also addressed with rear legroom seeing a 1.3 inch increase. Also, Chevrolet has redesigned the center stack to better delineate infotainment system and climate control. Luxury treatments on the Malibu include satin chrome accents on the dash, available leather seating, and ventilated seats. Tech-wise, all Malibus come with Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system, with different trim levels getting different screen sizes, along with optional navigation. OnStar 4G LTE and wireless phone charging are also a part of the package. Power for the Malibu comes in three forms. First is a new turbocharged 1.5L EcoTec four-cylinder with 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet. This engine comes with stop/start technology and active grille shutters. A six-speed automatic comes as standard. Next is the turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder with 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A new eight-speed automatic comes paired with this engine. Chevrolet promises better economy for both engines thanks to 300 pound weight drop. The final powertrain is the hybrid. An all-new, direct-injected 1.8L four-cylinder paired with a slightly modified two-motor drive from the 2016 Chevrolet Volt. Total power output stands at 182 horsepower. An 80-cell 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides electric power. As for safety, the 2016 Malibu features a new system called Teen Driver. Standard on most Malibus, the system allows parents to set a predetermined speed and also track how their teen drove the vehicle. When the teen is in the vehicle, the system will mute the audio or any device paired with the vehicle if it detects a front-seat passenger isn't buckled up. It will also throw up audible and visual warnings if the vehicle is traveling over the predetermined speeds. The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu will hit dealers in the fourth quarter of this year. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 All-New Malibu is Larger, More Technological and Efficient New hybrid sedan projected to offer combined rating north of 45 MPG DETROIT – Chevrolet today introduced the all-new 2016 Malibu – a completely restyled midsize sedan engineered to offer more efficiency, connectivity and advanced safety features than ever. An all-new hybrid powertrain, which leverages technology from the Chevrolet Volt, will help offer a GM-estimated combined rating north of 45 mpg. The Malibu’s standard 1.5L turbo powertrain is projected to offer 37 mpg highway. The 2016 Malibu is also longer and lighter, with more interior space and improved fuel efficiency. Its wheelbase has been stretched close to four inches (101 mm), and it is nearly 300 pounds (136 kg) lighter than the current model. “Midsize customers tell us they want great fuel economy, connected technologies, wrapped in a gorgeous exterior. This is exactly what the 2016 Malibu was engineered to do,” said Jesse Ortega, Malibu chief engineer. The 2016 Malibu goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2015. Additional vehicle highlights: Available segment-exclusive OnStar 4G LTE in-vehicle connectivity as well as available wireless phone charging Agile, sophisticated and sleek exterior design incorporates sophisticated details that advance Chevrolet’s signature cues Standard preventive safety technologies include 10 standard air bags, with available features such as Forward Collision Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Automatic Parking Assist is also available All-new Teen Driver feature, which allows parents to view their kids’ driving statistics, such as maximum speed, warning alerts and more All-new, power-dense Ecotec 1.5L turbo engine with fuel-saving stop/start technology is standard, offering a GM-estimated 160 hp (119 kW) High-output 2.0L turbo with GM-estimated 250 hp (186 kW) is available and is mated with a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The new Malibu will be offered in L, LS, LT and Premier trims, as well as the Hybrid model. The Premier trim, Chevrolet’s new uplevel designation, debuts in the 2016 Malibu. Additional model and trim details will be announced closer to the start of production. Malibu Hybrid technology The 2016 Malibu introduces new strong hybrid technology that leverages components and knowledge directly from the plug-in Chevrolet Volt. The Malibu Hybrid is projected to offer a combined rating north of 45 mpg – while maintaining the styling, comfort, driving dynamics and connectivity as gas-only models. An all-new, direct-injection 1.8L four-cylinder engine mated to a two-motor drive unit, slightly modified from the 2016 Chevrolet Volt drive unit, powers the Malibu Hybrid. The drive unit provides additional power to assist the engine during acceleration, for 182 horsepower (136 kW) of total system power. The engine also features Chevrolet’s first application of Exhaust Gas Heat Recovery, or EGHR, technology, which uses exhaust heat to warm the engine and cabin. EGHR improves engine warm up and ensures consistent fuel economy performance in cold weather. Additional fuel economy benefits come from Exhaust Gas Recirculation, or EGR. An 80-cell, 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides electric power to the hybrid system. It can power the Malibu Hybrid up to 55 miles per hour (88 km/h) on electricity alone. The gasoline-powered engine automatically comes on at higher speeds and high loads to provide additional power. In addition to the drive unit, the Malibu Hybrid also shares the 2016 Volt’s blended regenerative braking system, which provides maximum kinetic energy recovery during braking to be stored into the battery system to help maintain charge, and drive unit power electronics. Turbocharged performance and efficiency An all-new, Ecotec 1.5L turbo is the standard engine in the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, offering a GM-estimated 37 mpg on the highway. It is part of a new global family of small-displacement gas engines designed with greater power density to deliver confident performance with excellent efficiency. The new 1.5L turbo employs the stop/start technology introduced on the 2014 Malibu, which enhances efficiency in stop-and-go driving, contributing to a GM-estimated 27 mpg in city driving – an 8-percent increase over the current model. On the highway, 1.5L-equipped models also feature active grille shutters that reduce aerodynamic drag to optimize efficiency. The Malibu’s more-efficient standard engine delivers a GM-estimated 160 horsepower (119 kW) and 184 lb-ft of torque (250 Nm). The torque is comparable to the current model’s standard 2.5L naturally aspirated engine in a vehicle package that’s nearly 300 pounds lighter. A higher-output 2.0L turbocharged engine is available, offering a GM-estimated 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 258 lb-ft of torque (350 Nm), for a higher degree of performance – but not at the expense of good efficiency. Malibu 2.0T models are GM-estimated at 22 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway. An all-new, GM-developed eight-speed automatic transmission – the first eight-speed automatic in a GM front-wheel-drive vehicle – contributes to the 2.0T’s balance of performance and efficiency. The 1.5L turbo engine is matched with a six-speed automatic. Teen Driver and an expanded range of safety features Teen Driver, a standard feature on most trim levels of the next-generation Malibu, supports safe driving habits by muting the audio or any device paired with the vehicle when front-seat occupants aren’t wearing their safety belts. Teen Driver also provides audible and visual warnings when the vehicle is traveling over predetermined speeds. To use Teen Driver, a parent enables the feature with a PIN in the Settings menu of the Malibu’s MyLink system, which allows them to register their teen’s key fob. The system’s settings are turned on only to registered key fobs Chevrolet’s system is the first in the industry with a built-in system that lets parents view on a display how their teenager drove the vehicle. Maximum speed reached, distance driven and number of times active safety features were engaged are among the parameters that can be confirmed. Teen Driver complements a roster of standard and available safety features, including a rear-view camera system standard on LS, LT, Hybrid and Premier models. Ten air bags, including front-seat knee air bags, head-curtain side-impact air bags and seat-mounted side air bags, are also standard. Rear-view camera Available active safety features include: Front Pedestrian Alert that uses a forward-looking camera to help avoid or reduce the harm caused by crashes with pedestrians ahead of the vehicle. The system can apply automatic last-second braking New Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert New Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator Rear Cross Traffic Alert Front and Rear Park Assist Intellibeam, which automatically switches the headlamps to high beam for better road illumination and improved visibility Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Automatic Braking Automatic Parking Assist. Sleeker design with lighter, stronger body structure With a wheelbase stretching 3.6 inches (91 mm) longer than the current Malibu, along with a 2.3-inch (58 mm) longer overall length and the same overall width, the 2016 Malibu strikes a sleeker-looking proportion. The added wheelbase helps provide better in-cabin comfort and functionality. With styling influenced by the 2014 Impala, the all-new Malibu advances Chevrolet’s global design language with features such as slim, sweeping headlamps and a progressive take on the brand’s characteristic dual-port grille. Three body-side creases also add drama to the design and help distinguish the Malibu as a contemporary Chevy. The hood and the cowl – the area where the windshield meets the hood – are lower than the current model and contribute to the Malibu’s greater aerodynamic performance, as do active grille shutters on LS and LT models. Premium design cues are incorporated on all models, with contemporary lighting technology featured across the lineup, including light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lamps on LT and Premier models. The Malibu Premier also receives LED taillamps. Beneath the new Malibu’s athletic-looking skin is a stronger, lighter body structure that contributes to its efficiency and driving dynamics. Greater use of high-strength steels enabled engineers to design the body structure with thinner components in some areas, delivering comparable crash performance with lower weight. The all-new body structure accounts for more than one-third of the Malibu’s nearly 300-pound weight reduction. Roomier, more comfortable and more connected interior The longer wheelbase allows a more open execution of Chevrolet’s signature dual-cockpit interior. Rear legroom improves by 1.3 inches (33 mm). The cabin’s open, expansive feel is reinforced with a greater emphasis on comfort, convenience and connectivity, allowing the Malibu to keep pace with customers’ connected lives. Highlights include: Chevrolet MyLink with a seven-inch-diagonal color capacitive touch screen is standard on LS, LT and Hybrid models Chevrolet MyLink with an eight-inch-diagonal capacitive touch screen is available on LT and Hybrid models and standard on Premier model Chevrolet MyLink with navigation is available with the eight-inch MyLink system and features three-dimensional map views for most major U.S. cities and attractions All-new Teen Driver feature is supported by the eight-inch MyLink system, allowing parents to restrict certain vehicle functions to support safer driving and to view their kids’ driving statistics such as maximum speed, warning alerts and more OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot is standard on all models with a three-month/3GB data trial (whichever comes first) Wireless phone charging available on LT and Hybrid and standard on Premier Dual rear-seat USB ports and a 110-volt power outlet is optional on LT and standard on Premier trim. The instrument panel “center stack” is all-new, with greater delineation between the infotainment system and climate system controls for easier, at-a-glance operation. The Malibu’s interior is also features: Galvano (satin) chrome accents on the instrument panel and center console Dedicated storage slot for mobile phones, which incorporates wireless charging, if equipped Perforated leather-appointed seating surfaces available on LT and Hybrid and standard on Premier Ventilated seats – a first for Malibu – are standard on Premier. Manufacturing The 2016 Malibu will be built from globally sourced parts at GM’s Fairfax Assembly Plant, in Kansas City, Kansas. The plant received a $600 million investment in paint shop and tooling upgrades in 2013. View full article

Before we get any further. ARE WE REALLY ARGUING ABOUT STEERING WHEELS IN CARS? thank you.

Speaking of which - Bloomberg: How a Former Audi Guy Plans to Spend $12 Billion Reviving Caddy

Serious question: Aside from us (automotive enthusiasts), do you really think people care about where the power goes to? Or do they care about luxuries?

I have a question for you; when was the last time that Scion ever introduced a new model? The answer was back 2011 at the New York Auto Show when the brand introduced the FR-S. Since that time, the automaker has seen precipitously drop and questions were raised whether Toyota was going to help out Scion or just let it sink. Well the parent company has went with the former option and the brand is premiering two vehicles before the start of the New York Auto Show. Meet the first of these two new models, the iA. The iA will take the place of the long-running xD model in Scion's lineup. Looking at the iA, you can't help but think there is lot of influence from another automaker, Mazda. There is a reason for that; the iA happens to be the sedan version of the upcoming Mazda2. So those distinctive lines around the side and Mazda3-esq rear end on the iA; that's a Mazda-design with a Scion badge. The interior is very much Mazda3 with a dual-screen instrument cluster and center stack design with a screen mounted on top of the dash. Power for the iA comes from a 1.5L four-cylinder with 106 horsepower and 103 pound-feet of torque. The engine will be paired up with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. Scion says the iA will get fuel economy ratings of 31 City/41 Highway/35 Combined for the manual, and 33 City/41 Highway/37 Combined for the automatic. Standard equipment is very generous with keyless entry, push-button start, 16-inch alloy wheels, backup camera, and low-speed pre-collision system which uses a laser to detect if an accident will happen and alert the driver to take avoidance maneuvers. The system will also work to minimize damage if an accident was to happen. Price? At the moment, Scion says the iA will be hovering around $16,000 mark. Source: Scion Press Release is on Page 2 Sports Sedan that Shouts Success - All-New 2016 Scion iA Rolls Into New York With a Trunk Brand’s first-ever sedan with dramatically sporty look and agile moves Estimated MSRP in the $16,000-range for well-equipped mono-spec model High-spirited 1.5-liter engine; estimated 42 MPG highway Choice of 6-speed stick shift or 6-speed automatic Standard Low-speed Pre-collision safety system Roomy cabin with premium amenities 7-inch multimedia system with voice recognition NEW YORK, March 31, 2015 – Scion is expanding its line-up in more ways than one. In addition to adding a new vehicle to its stable, it’s also adding its first-ever sedan, the remarkably sporty, yet very affordable, 2016 Scion iA. The Scion iA sedan joins the all-new 2016 Scion iM hatchback for a one-two punch in the subcompact and compact segments. The new sans-hatch Scion will arrive in dealerships this fall for an estimated MSRP in the $16,000-range. That’s for a mono-spec model equipped with standard Low-speed Pre-collision safety system and 7-inch multi-media system with voice activation. Because Scion has a no hassle, no haggle Pure Price, customers walk out the door with the same price they saw posted in the dealership. “Dramatic” could be an understatement when describing the visual impact of the 2016 Scion iA. Beneath the daringly curved sheetmetal lies a tight, agile machine that re-defines “entry level.” Call the design “class above,” a term that applies throughout the car. If the Scion iA happens to be a customer’s first new car, then it’s going to be fondly remembered no matter how many others come later. If it’s a second car for the household, it may start arguments over who gets to drive it. The basic ingredients: a high-strength body structure, quick-revving, high- compression 1.5-liter engine with 106 hp; choice of 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions; standard 16-inch alloy wheels, and manufacturer- estimated fuel economy ratings of 33 city / 42 highway / 37 combined MPG. What Do Those Letters Mean? There’s no mystery to the Scion iA badge. The “i” in the all-new 2016 Scion iA and iM models suggests Individual. Intriguing. Easy on the customer’s income. The “A” in iA could mean aggressive styling, accommodating cabin and trunk, and affordable. Curves Ahead, Trunk Behind The 2016 Scion shows a familiar brand face with a hexagon lower grille and sharp-eyed headlights. In the rear, the spacious trunk gives it a distinctive look in the segment. The Scion iA cuts a striking profile that certainly stands out in a crowd. To make the most of its sophisticated sedan breeding, the iA also sports an upscale looking piano black bumper treatment, chrome grille surround and chrome tailpipe. The Scion iA does inherit a critical item from its hatchback siblings, a standard 60/40 split rear seat back to extend carrying capacity and versatility. As Fun As It Looks Push the “Start” button (because Keyless Entry with Push-Button Start is standard), and the Scion iA springs to life with a sporty yet muted rasp from its chrome tailpipe. It’s the sound of a very high-tech 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that’s big in both spirit and technology. In other words, the Scion iA zips as it sips. Much credit also goes to the choice of transmissions. The standard 6-speed manual is compact and lightweight, and is super low on friction with a short stroke, making it one of the sweetest-shifting manuals around. For those who prefer an automatic transmission, the available 6-speed automatic will be intriguing. Engineered for light weight, low friction and a direct-shift feel, the automatic has a bit of a dual personality. It moves the Scion iA off from a standing start with the smoothness only a torque converter automatic can deliver, yet very quickly afterward locks the converter for quicker, more direct shifts and higher fuel economy. For drivers seeking greater torque feel, a Sport Mode feature is available with the flip of a switch. Agility is engineered into the Scion iA, not just added on with stiffer springs and shocks. The body structure uses straight beams wherever possible, continuous framework that makes the individual sections function in harmony, and effective positioning of high-tensile steel. Bottom line, it’s strong. The MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension are tuned for a just-right balance of sporty handling and comfortable ride not normally associated with this segment. Steering and brake system tuning, in particular, received attention more befitting of a sport sedan than an “economy car.” The Scion iA uses a rigid steering mount, which provides a direct yet light feel also unexpected in low-priced, high-MPG models. Progressive braking feel comes to the fore when cornering. Entering the curve, the pedal provides smooth operation, then progresses to a more rigid feel as G-force rises. Big on Safety That high-strength structure also forms the foundation for safety in the Scion iA. A solid H-shaped ring structure joins the roof and B-pillars to underbody and combines with high-tensile steel on key frame members and a part of the floor to form a robust structure. Front side airbags and curtain airbags help protect front and rear seat occupants. But the biggest safety news in this $16,000-ish Scion iA is a standard Low-speed Pre-collision system that uses a laser sensor to help the driver avoid collisions and to help minimize damage in the event of an accident. A rear view back-up camera is also standard. Scion = Amazing Value Looks do not deceive in the Scion iA cabin. Premium chrome accents and soft- touch trim and surfaces belie the car’s price point, a value equation that runs in the Scion family. For starters, consider how the iA accommodates a wide range of drivers’ physiques, including its 10-inch fore-aft slide adjustment and the standard seat height adjuster, too. There’s no skimping with the steering wheel, which offers tilt and telescoping adjustments. It’s easy to take for granted features like cruise control and power windows, locks and exterior mirrors, because they’re standard in most cars over a certain price. On some cars in the Scion iA’s neighborhood, those could be extra-cost options, but they’re all included on the 2016 iA’s lengthy standard equipment roster. The sporty steering wheel has control switches for the audio and standard Bluetooth. Hardly “entry level,” the standard 7-in. Display Audio system has a touch screen, 6 speakers, remote interface and rear-view camera. Pandora®, AhaTM and StitcherTM come standard, too, providing a huge music, talk and podcast universe when paired with a compatible phone. For those who want to bring their own music into the iA, two USB ports and an Auxiliary input are standard. Keep your eyes on the road and your hands upon the wheel by using Voice Recognition to control many of the multi-media system features. An available navigation system is also offered through Scion dealers. Make It Your Own One could buy the Scion iA, choose the color and be perfectly happy with the result. For those who see the car as a blank canvas, Scion offers a full range of dealer-installed accessories, as it does for all its models. A number of Scion dealers have inaugurated Pure Process Plus, which allows customers to research a car through Scion.com, find it at a dealership, apply for credit and secure a price, all without leaving the couch. Scion will continue working with dealers and Toyota Financial Services to fine-tune the process and plans to significantly expand its reach in 2015. View full article

Scion used the LA Auto Show as litmus test to show off a possible new model, the iM concept. This concept was a Toyota Auris sold in Europe, but was all done up with large fenders and wheels. It seems the model has passed this test as the production model iM has been introduced the night before the start of New York Auto Show. The production model loses all of the concept bits such as front and rear bumpers, and forged wheels. What we're left with is a quite good looking hatchback. The front boasts a slim, honeycomb grille and narrowed headlights. Around back is a distinctive tailgate design. The interior boasts a similar dashboard layout to the Corolla and features a 7-inch Pioneer infotainment system. High quality materials are used throughout, along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Power for the iM comes from a 1.8L DOHC four-cylinder with 137 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. This can be paired up to either a six-speed manual or CVT. Scion estimates fuel economy numbers of 27 City/36 Highway/31 Combined for the manual and 30 City/37 Highway/32 Combined for the CVT. As for handling, the iM gets a four-wheel independent suspension setup with the rear getting a double-wishbone layout. A set of 17-inch wheels wrapped in 225/45R17 tires finish off the vehicle. Scion says the iM will hit dealers with a base price starting under $20,000. No word on a release date. Source: Scion Press Release is on Page 2 Five Doors, a Hatch and Room for Adventure: All-New 2016 Scion iM Ready to Fire Up the Fun Hatch Segment Distinctively cool versatile 5-door design An expected MSRP of under $20,000 for fully equipped mono-spec model • High fun factor and high fuel economy estimated at 37 MPG highway Choice of 6-speed stick shift or advanced CVTi-S with 7-step shifting Roomy cabin with premium amenities Sophisticated chassis for sophisticated moves NEW YORK, March 31, 2015 – If the badge on the all-new 2016 Scion iM stood for “instant message,” the message to young buyers would be that they can now get a fun-to-drive, high-style, high-content, high-MPG rated hatchback for a whole lot less than they’d expect. The all-new Scion iM arrives in dealerships this fall, starting under $20,000. In true Scion practice, that’s for a mono-spec model equipped like an upgrade model from competitors. The Scion iM hatchback joins the all-new 2016 Scion iA sedan for a one-two punch in the subcompact and compact segments. The all-new 2016 Scion iM is the answer for young buyers looking for a sporty hatchback, but who still need to pay for things like rent, food, school loans and weekend fun with friends. Its bodylines are ripped. The cabin is roomy, refined, versatile and high-tech-equipped. The 1.8-liter DOHC Valvematic engine is eager to rev and very easy on gas. The chassis, with sophisticated double-wishbone rear suspension and standard 17-inch alloy wheels, is ready to smooth out urban bumps and tame adventurous curves. For more hands-on driving fun, a six- speed stick shift is also available. For safety, the 2016 Scion iM comes with eight standard airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and a front passenger seat cushion airbag. Design: The Meaning of iM In the name, the “i” stands for individual. Intriguing. Easy on the customer’s income. For the M, think modern, multi-faceted and magnetic. The iM could be a first new car, but don’t call it “entry level.” It will easily compare to hatches that start in the same price neighborhood but then demand a higher tax bracket when you add in needed upgrade options. The Scion iM shows a familiar face, with a hexagon lower grille, sharp-eyed headlights and side bezels with honeycomb mesh pattern seen also on the brand’s FR-S sports car. That aerodynamic expression carries into the profile, which conveys dynamic movement from the lower front to the rear. It’s like a “swoosh line” rendered in steel. Detailing on the Scion iM belies the affordable pricing. The piano black grille treatment, standard sporty body aero kit, LED daytime running lights and taillights leave an unmistakable signature. Also true to the Scion way, the color selection gives the design tremendous visual pop: Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Barcelona Red Metallic, Spring Green Metallic and Electric Storm Blue. One Spec: Fun Gas prices come down. Gas prices go back up. Young buyers like to avoid pain at the pump no matter what. The 2016 Scion iM offers a sweet spot of performance and efficiency, with Scion estimating a 37-MPG highway fuel economy rating. Then comes the fun side. The 137 hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine uses Valvematic continuously variable valve timing (lift and phasing) technology to offer a broad torque curve, so the iM feels responsive in all situations. For driving purists, the Scion iM has a standard 6-speed stick shift that’s a slick shift, making for an engaging and active driving experience. Got hills? The Scion iM comes standard with Hill Start Assist, which helps prevent roll-back when you’re pulling away from a stop sign or traffic light on an incline. The optional automatic is also perfectly suited to the 1.8-liter engine. It’s an intelligent Continuously Variable Transmission that’s been sport-tuned for driving pleasure. That’s why it’s called the CVTi-S. Not all CVTs operate as responsively as the CVTi-S in the Scion iM. This one’s got both a Sport mode as well as manual shifting capability with seven stepped shift points. In Sport mode, the CVTi-S alters shift points and also provides a livelier feel through the electric power steering programming and accelerator responsiveness. G AI-SHIFT logic detects lateral G force during cornering and maintains engine speed by restricting unnecessary shift changes. Using the console shifter, the driver can make fast, sequential shifts through the transmission’s seven predefined steps, accompanied by the familiar sense of positive shift engagement. The 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display within the instrument cluster displays M mode activity, including the “gear” position, and other vehicle information. It’s Got the Moves In the Scion iM, instant gratification behind the wheel will turn to long-term love down the road. Driving enthusiasts know well the value of a high-strength body structure and a sophisticated four-wheel independent suspension. Based on the tC sports coupe platform, the 2016 Scion iM checks those boxes by using ample high-strength steel and special reinforcements in the structure. And it goes further, making the rear suspension the double-wishbone type, a design offering the added benefit of not impinging on cargo room. Add in standard 17-inch alloy wheels with fat 225/45R17 tires, and the Scion iM delivers a tight, taut road feel and a compliant ride quality. The Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system makes low-speed maneuvering a breeze and provides good feel and less assistance at highway speeds. It also helps boost fuel efficiency, because the system consumes power only when assist is needed. Premium Interior without the Premium Price Inside, it will be love at first seating in the standard bolstered front sport seats. They fit the body like a glove and also integrate a Whiplash Injury Lessen (WIL) structure for occupant protection. High quality materials abound throughout the Scion iM cabin, where the layered dashboard design combines sports car-inspired instrument panel styling with easy to reach, easy to use controls. With ideas borrowed from the luxury car realm, the Scion iM keeps noise outside with an acoustic layer windshield, foam- type insulation and floor silencer sheets. The Scion iM’s premium feel on the road is matched by a lengthy roster of premium amenities – all included as standard with the brand’s famous mono- spec strategy. Start with versatility, which comes from the 60/40 fold-down rear seats and standard cargo cover. A roomy glove box and console box are augmented by numerous front door pockets and storage bins throughout. As a Scion, the iM naturally comes with high-grade standard multi-media system. The 6-speaker Pioneer sound system will play from a variety of sources, including iPods, of course, and other devices. You control it all through an easy to use 7-inch Pioneer Display Audio unit that also includes standard HD Radio and Aha. It’s through that screen that you view the standard rear view backup camera. Real leather wraps the steering wheel, an unexpected detail in this price class. The sporty wheel puts fingertip switches for audio, multi-info display and hands- free phone calls via Bluetooth at your fingertips. The 4.2-inch color TFT multi- information display (Scion’s first) between the main instrument gauges provides displays for the car’s audio system and other functions. The Scion iM keeps the value surprises coming. All cars in this segment come with air conditioning; the Scion iM steps up a class with dual-zone automatic A/C control. And on cold mornings, the color-keyed heated power-folding exterior mirrors (yes, standard power-folding mirrors) get fog or frost cleared up in a hurry. Auto on/off headlamps are another convenience inherited from a higher segment. Build It Your Way One could buy the Scion iM, choose the color and be perfectly happy with the result. For those who see the car as a blank canvas, Scion offers a full range of dealer-installed accessories. A sampling includes: Navigation upgrade kit, body graphics, cargo area enhancements, interior light kit, all-weather floor mats and more. A roof rack system expands versatility. The Scion iM will also offer a line of TRD (Toyota Racing Development) performance accessories, including an air intake system, anti-roll bar, lowering springs and more. Scion drivers love their pets, and so does Scion. The iM will offer a range of cabin enhancements to take the stress out of carrying furry friends. Available through dealers, pet-friendly accessories include a dog harness with tether, door guards, seat pet barrier and even a grass pad, which discourages your doggie from standing on center console. A number of Scion dealers have inaugurated Pure Process Plus, which allows customers to research a car through Scion.com, find it at a dealership, apply for credit and secure a price, all without leaving the couch. Scion will continue working with dealers and Toyota Financial Services to fine-tune the process and plans to significantly expand its reach in 2015. View full article