2016 Scion iM
Nimble, nice-looking and, well, mundane.
Scion started as an entry level, youth-appeal brand to bring people into the Toyota, and, eventually, the Lexus fold, à la the ‘50s GM marketing structure of Chevrolet-Buick-Cadillac.
Its first cars were rebadged JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) machines and they found a cult following. But the recession and other issues took the corporate eye off the ball and a dearth of new product meant buyers went elsewhere—like into a Kia Soul.
The iM is best viewed through this lens as a place keeper vehicle until truly unique product reappears. It is basically a four seasons old European Toyota Auris, a mainstream small hatch—which ironically, is somewhat funky here Stateside.
The iM looks good; its monoform shape enhanced by its big wheels and ground effects. Inside, it is well constructed in the area surrounding the driver and there are some fun choices like the white contrast strip that spans the lower part of the dash.
But otherwise it is strictly Toyota Corporate, with comfortable seats, an intuitive interface and great space utilization. Sadly, materials aft of the front row are much cheaper; the obvious cost-cutting here undermines the quality vibe.
The iM drives surprising well—or perhaps not, as most Euro machines are better dynamically than the vehicles developed here (see how a Continental-developed hatchback Hyundai Elantra goes down the road compared to its Korean/US sedan sibling for another example of this) with accurate steering, feelsome brakes and composed handling up to about 8/10ths.
The ride is also refined and quiet, surprisingly so for an economy car and very welcome over Denver roads.
The 1.8-liter four is unobjectionable but uninspiring; it is smooth revving and has good low- and midrange torque—peaking at 126lb-ft—and its 137 horses are fine in town.
Strangely enough, the CVT automatic is a better choice than the more manual, as the latter’s shift action is vague and hard to judge. While this Scion is certainly not as quick as the competition, but it is a pleasing place to while away congested commutes. That the iM is actually the closest thing to a new Toyota Matrix doesn’t detract from its somewhat unique place in a market comprised mainly of crossovers, small sedans and much smaller hatchbacks.
Whether that is enough reason to sell many is Scion’s dilemma.
EPA ratings: 33/42mpg; 37mpg combined
0-60mph: 9.3sec (est)
Price as tested: $17,570
Here is what Scion has to say.
Isaac Bouchard is owner of Bespoke Autos, an auto brokerage that helps people save time, money and hassle when buying or leasing vehicles. Since 1991 he has helped his clients save over $1 million dollars. Isaac has been a professional automotive journalist as well for over 12 years, having reviewed most all types of car, truck and SUV
