2016 Scion iM: Scion hatches a new hatchback
Scion developed its youth-minded brand 12 years ago, at the time launching in California only and bestowing its first models with funky names, like xA and xB. A North American player in the Toyota stable, Scion’s fundamental mission was to develop distinct products through a unique purchase process for “independent-minded consumers under age 35”. Five products later, with buyers that have been young or young-at-heart and, after a recent hiatus of bringing new models to market, Scion has re-energized with two new offerings: the 2016 Scion iM hatchback and the 2016 Scion iA sedan.
The five-door hatch has a lot going for it, as it tries to attract the attention of hatch enthusiasts, sedan buyers seeking more utility, or SUV owners searching for something different and something “waku-waku, doki-doki” which means “fun and driving excitement”, said Scion. It comes with good looks, a footprint that has more room and stowage than its compact class might suggest, and a competitive price, which starts at $18,460 for
the manual transmission version and $19,200 with the automatic (along with a $795 delivery charge). It goes on sale in September.
Standard features
The iM comes with a long list of standard features including automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, cruise control, power-folding mirrors, a tilt-and-telescope steering wheel with audio controls, and Scion’s first color multi-information display. Additional features include a 7-inch monitor with AM/FM/ HD radio, six speakers, an auxiliary jack, a USB port with iPod connectivity, and Bluetooth-enabled, hands-free phone and music streaming. It is available in one well-equipped trim, without factory options, although a few items can be dealer-installed, such as a navigation system, roof rack, cargo accessories, a pet carrier and a TRD performance upgrade package.
Safety attributes
Notable is Scion’s long list of standard safety attributes including the Star Safety System that brings stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes, a brake assist, and “smart stop”.
Also on board are a rear backup camera, tire pressure monitor system, a first aid kit, and all the expected airbags, including a driver-seat knee bag, and LATCH connectors for child seats in outboard rear seats, with tether connections for all three seating positions. Although NHTSA has not completed safety testing, the Auris has received high marks, so Scion expects the same of the iM.
Exterior, interior design
The new iM at just under 171 inches is similar to others in its class. Sporty touches come from its windswept headlamps, a chrome exhaust tip, piano black grille treatment, 17-inch alloy wheels and 225-width tires.
Stepping inside, you’ll find an attractive cabin that carries over the piano black trim, has contrast stitching, round vents, soft-touch accents, and nicely bolstered front seats. In the rear are 60/40 split seats that fold flat to improve in cargo carrying. It can hold up to 21 cu.ft. of goods in the back.
Engine specifications
Motivating the iM is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 137 hp. and 126 lb.-ft. of torque and is paired to a standard six-speed manual or an available continuously variable transmission (CVT); it comes with a sport mode and a manual-like sport shift mode that has seven computer-optimized shift points. EPA Fuel economy is good for its segment with 27 city/36 highway/31 overall mpg, with the manual transmission and 30/37/32 mpg with the CVT. Test drive
We drove both the automatic and manual versions of the new iM in preproduction prototypes, but concentrated our review on the manual model, with Toyota’s TRD package that has been spawned from its racing development group. The cabin is roomy and airy in the front with a windswept windshield, however the rear is better served for two passengers, rather than three, and for riders under six feet, as the hatch’s contour slopes downward in the back, making shorter headroom. We found good power for everyday driving, for a vehicle of its class and price, and four-wheel disc brakes that did their job, stopping the iM in a measured manner. The electric power steering carved turns well over a course of highway motoring and driving along the tight and winding canyon roads in coastal southern California.
The iM’s handling was clearly enhanced by the TRD package’s specialized air filter, lowering springs, and anti-roll bars that work with the stock suspension to tighten the handling in corners and during passing maneuvers. We were also impressed by the standard Hill Start Assist that holds the iM for two seconds and keeps it from rolling backwards-an aid to drivers who are challenged by manual transmissions and steep grades.
Of note is Scion’s Service Boost, which brings two years or 24,000 miles of scheduled maintenance and two years of roadside assistance.