2016 Scion iM
Offering just five models ranging from small to smaller, Scion’s philosophy is to create fun and characterful cars that are easy to buy and own. Parent company Toyota, which flip-flops with GM for “largest car company in the world” honours, has taken a largely hands-off approach with Scion, and the resultant youth-oriented offerings have a style all their own.
Scion is introducing two new models this year, including the iM you see here. Based on Toyota’s Europe-only Auris, the car is Scionified (sic) with big directional wheels, a body kit and other changes that make it a real player in the highly competitive “Hot Hatch” segment.
This five-door comes in only one flavour: Delicious.
Scion eschews option packages and trim levels in favour of simplicity. Pick a car, choose the transmission you prefer and you’re pretty much done. There are a limited number of optional add-ons and dealer-installed options like Navigation, but the car essentially comes one way. And what a way that is.
Motive force comes from a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 137 hp and 126 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that features a sport mode and manual control over seven pre-programmed ratios. That is plenty of oomph for this little car, and the performance minded can add upgrades like anti-roll bars, lowered springs, and an air intake system from TRD (Toyota Racing Development).
The only interior colour available is black, and it features a swath of piano-black trim across the well-appointed dash. The interior feels like a cockpit and all controls are easy to use and close at hand.
The hot hatch segment is a crowded one, with a couple of perennial leaders like the VW Golf and the Mazda 3. Toyota has not had a player in this field since the demise of the venerable Matrix, and this Scion has the ability to fill the gap nicely. The competition should look in their rear-view mirrors, because here comes the iM. I’ll take mine in Spring Green, thank you very much.
WRITTEN BY Aladin Jarrah
