2016 Scion iM Debuts in Production Form in New York

Toyota is pulling from its global portfolio to inject its neglected Scion brand with a much needed dose of new products. As promised by a concept car shown at last year’s Los Angeles auto show, the 2016 Scion iM, based on the European Toyota Auris hatchback, joins the lineup later this year to replace the boxy xB.

The iM has changed very little from concept to reality, and even debuts at the New York auto show in the same Electric Blue hue shown in Los Angeles. The 2016 Scion iM essentially looks like a more aggressive version of the Auris hatchback, with a Scion-specific grille and sporty trim elements like 17-inch alloy wheels and a standard body kit. Size-wise, the iM is a bit smaller than its corporate cousin, the Toyota Corolla, with a 4-inch shorter wheelbase, a 2-inch lower height, and nearly a foot shorter overall length.

The one-choice-only powertrain for the iM is the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder currently offered in the Corolla; more specifically, the engine from the Corolla Eco trim that comes with Valvematic variable intake system for improved efficiency. In the iM, the four-cylinder comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and offers an optional CVT with paddle shifters that mimic seven gear ratios in Sport mode. Fuel economy is 31 mpg combined with the manual and 32 mpg combined with the CVT.

Like other Scions, the 2016 iM comes in only one bodystyle (five-door hatchback) and one trim level. The standard equipment list is extensive for the claimed under-$20,000 price, and includes automatic climate control, Bluetooth, keyless entry, a backup camera, a Pioneer sound system, and power-folding side mirrors. Scion will also offer all sorts of accessories like body graphics, a navigation upgrade, a roof rack, and a few TRD performance parts.

The 2016 Scion iM will go on sale later this year alongside the Mazda2-based 2016 Scion iA subcompact also debuting at the New York auto show. These two new models will replace the xB and xD hatchbacks, which are being phased out after the 2015 model year.

Stay tuned for more information on the 2016 Scion iM hatchback as it makes its official debut at the New York auto show this week.