Since its origin in 2002, Scion has not changed focus. And, before discussing the
2016 Scion iM, we like to relate the following information.
Each of the five Scion vehicles on the United States market today is designed to appeal to a younger buyer. Two of the five are newly introduced 2016 models. They are the iA and for this review, the iM compact hatchback being sold or can be ordered at Scion dealerships today.
Scion prides itself on a unique buying experience. There is one trim level for each vehicle, but each has 150 accessories that can be added to make a particular coupe, sedan, wagon or hatchback unique. Manual transmissions cost about $1,000 less than automatics.
As advertised, the 2016 Scion iM is based on the tC sports coupe platform, using high-strength steel and special reinforcements in the structure as well as a double-wishbone type rear suspension.
The powerplant in the compact iM is the137-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that comes fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox for the purists, as well as with standard hill start assist. Also absolutely suited for the 1.8-liter is the optional automatic intelligent continuously variable transmission that includes both a sport mode and manual shifting capability with seven stepped shift points. During the weeks in the iM, the average fuel usage was 34.4 mpg.
The iM with the higher-priced automatic transmission ($1,000 more than a manual) carries a sticker price of $19,200.
Storage abilities in these hatchbacks are a big draw for families who visit grocery stores and shopping outlets on a regular basis. For the iM with the rear split seats folded flat, storage expands to at least 45 carpeted cubic feet. In this regard, the Nissan Versa and Ford Focus hatchbacks have less storage space, but the Mazda3 and Hyundai Elantra GT hatches have more. So does the Honda Fit, which is described in the automotive press as a wagon.
With the standard 17-inch alloy wheels framed by fat tires, the Scion iM delivers a tight, taut road feel and a compliant ride quality. Inside the five-passenger cabin, Scion used high quality materials, an acoustic layer windshield, layered dashboard design and sports car-inspired instrument panel with easy to use controls.
Enhancing the motoring experience are the bolstered front sport seats, which Scion claims "fit the body like a glove." A high-grade multimedia system is standard with a six-speaker Pioneer sound system, controlled through an easy to use seven-inch display audio unit that also includes standard HD radio and Aha. That screen also provides the view for the standard rear backup camera.
Although cars in the same price range as the iM come with air conditioning, the Scion iM doubles the pleasure with dual-zone automatic A/C control. Additional standard features are the color-keyed heated power-folding exterior mirrors, and auto on/off headlamps. The iM also brings versatility thanks to the 60/540 fold-down rear seats, standard cargo cover and up to 21.0-cu. ft. of cargo room.
Although the iM is a hatchback it also functions as a wagon with the relatively flat load floor. Differences between a wagon and hatchback are minimal. A hatchback has a more vertical liftgate. That liftgate usually is wider than that of a wagon making it easier to place wider objects onto the load floor. A wagon might have A, B, and C pillars supporting a roof with the hatchback relying on A and B pillars. Wagons have full rear windows, which supposedly are a difference, but so do most hatchbacks.
The iM is comfortable and rides well on the P225 tires mounted on alloy 17-inch wheels. The P225 tires are wider than the norm for vehicles in this compact class.
Notable inclusions were power windows (express for driver), door locks and exterior mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry and USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices. Interior accents included piano black, chrome and silver trim. The trim did not look or feel cheap.
The tested iM had a rear view backup camera, dual zone automatic climate control, a Pioneer audio system including six speakers and a seven-inch touch screen. The sound system was relatively easy to understand and use. Ditto the climate control.
Major options on the iM are navigation system, ambient lighting and performance upgrades such as stiffer sway bars and lowering springs. The suspension system on the tested iM included struts front and double wishbones rear.
The iM has keyless entry with pushbutton start, dual USB ports, low speed pre-collision warning for safety, a six-speaker seven-inch tourch screen (sound and climate) and a rear view backup camera.
There are 13.5 cubic feet of storage in the trunk, which is substantial for a sedan of this small size. The load floor is wide and deep and, during the test week, several larger, boxy items fit into the trunk easily.
With the end of the 2015 model year, Scion had, in effect, only two mom-and-pop or ordinary cars to sell, the xB and tC. The FR-S was a specialty sports car with a limited audience. Dealers were crying for more products. They got it for model year 2016 with the iM.
Scion's warranty is 36,000 miles and five years or 60,000 miles on powertrains.
FAST FACTS
Vehicle: 2016 Scion iM
Type: front-wheel-drive compact five-passenger, four-door hatchback
Price: $19,200
Delivery: $795
Engine: 1.8-liter, 137-horsepower, double overhead cam four-cylinder
Transmission: seven-speed CVT-S automatic
Fuel tank: 14 gallons
Fuel: regular
Wheelbase: 102.4 inches
Length: 170.5 inches
Width: 69.3 inches
Height: 55.3 inches
Weight: 3,031 pounds
Ground clearance: 5.5 inches
Turning diameter, curb-to-curb: 37.4 feet
Brakes: discs front and rear
Suspension: struts front, double wishbone rear, stabilizer bars
P225 tires, aluminum wheels: 17-inch
Cargo: 20.8 cubic feet rear seats up
Warranty: three years or 36,000 miles, five years or 60,000 miles powertrain, two years or 25,000 free scheduled maintenance
Information: www.scion.com