William Maley

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.

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.