When it comes to cars, I love to see some of the more innovative, unique and extreme designs out there. These types of designs are a big part of the reason why Scion is known today. That’s why I was excited to be invited to a Scion media event. Scion started in 2003 and has had a couple of very recognizable cars hit the streets. The brand and their cars have matured, but they still remain fun, but as the brand has matured, so have their cars.
For 2016 Scion is very excited about 2 new releases that will be hitting the streets, both of these cars are made to appeal to a youthful audience, but with their price point, I think they will also get plenty of consideration for a family’s 2nd car as well.
Scion is introducing a 5 door hatchback which appeals to your adventurous side, the iM and also a sedan which is practical and performs great in the city, the iA. Last week, I had a chance to take them for a spin throughout the streets of Grand Rapids, Michigan on a Scion media event.
Scion remains committed to making cars that are fun & polarizing, all while offering a great value. Scion believes in a no haggle and simple approach to buying a car, pretty much your only choices once you select a model will be manual or automatic and the paint color. This approach also allows Scion to bring some of the best prices available.
Check out my thoughts of the newest members of the lineup.
Scion iM
The iM is a sub-compact hatchback that will appeal to the adventurous type. It is a versatile vehicle which is just as comfy on a camping trip or the daily commute to the office.
This is not the biggest or the fastest hatchback, but as an entry level car, it absolutely holds is own. With 137 horsepower, there is enough there even if you are on the highway and need to accelerate quickly. The iM is a fun car, and was designed for the thrill seeker.
The iM is equipped with a rear view camera and a 7” touch screen, which are both standard (like I said, very few choices). Along with the camera, the importance of safety carries over with the 8 airbags in the iM.
The iM starts at $18,460 and gets you an incredible 31 or 32 blended miles per gallon, with the automatic getting slightly better mileage. This makes for a perfect first car for a young professional, but I think it also makes a great option for a 2nd car for a family.
Scion iA
The iA is Scion’s entry level sub compact car. For a large number of buyers it will be there first “new” car. The perfect buyer for the iA is someone who stays in town, prefers a good looking car, and is an independent or young urban buyer.
The iA has a very unique and bold looking front end, almost like it has an attitude. People will either like it or leave it, and I personally think it looks sharp.
It also comes standard with remote entry and a keyless ignition, which is an uncommon bonus for a entry level vehicle.
At 106 horsepower the iA will not be winning any drag racing events, but it is perfect for driving in the city, and I know you will love the 31/41/35 (city/hwy/blended) miles per gallon on the automatic version.
The iA is a perfect first car, and if you are a parent looking for or helping your child select their first car, the iA has some really cool safety features. In addition to the rearview camera & 7” touch screen display, the iA has a low speed pre-collision system which is awesome. With cameras and sensors the iA helps prevent accidents while under 20 mph. It detects objects in its path within 6-20 feet and will warn the driver with a series of beeps, then it will pre-charge the brakes and finally if there is no driver response the iA will apply the brakes. This is a great system that will help you feel comfortable knowing you or your child will be safer in this system.
Scion is a brand that does things in their own, unique way. The iM and iA definitely are definitely consistent with the Scion way. I love the product, gas mileage and most of all the price point.
If you are in the market for a new car, check them out and learn about them, the 2016 Scion iA and iM will be available in the first week of September, maybe, just maybe you are bold enough to drive one yourself!
My friend bought a scion a few years ago, such a cool looking car
Looks like a nice car.