Scion is looking to expand its model range in calendar 2015 with two new models: one based on the Mazda2 sedan, and the other being this remarkably cool 5-door hatch shown in LA as the iM concept.

You might be asking yourself if the production iM, set to be revealed in NY in April 2015, overlaps with the xB and xD. We certainly were.

But we believe the answer is that the iM production car will be more advanced in the chassis department and more powerful than Scion’s box-car twins.

This means a more-modern automatic transmission than the four-speeds in the xB and xD, and also far more power than is currently in the xB and xD.

The name iM may change en route to production, as will the fancy detailing of the bumpers, LEDs, wheels and lighting of the iM. But what is expected to continue is the overall glasshouse and dimensions – which will help the iM slide in to a size with the WRX, Focus and GTI.

This will make it slightly larger than the Fiesta in all dimensions, lower than the Honda Fit and Subaru XV Crosstrek, and almost as wide as the VW Golf.

Stay tuned for more iM details as Scion makes them available! But overall: the car’s positioning will be one of the sportiest compacts and might even spawn a Focus ST rival with extra power.

2014 Scion iM Concept

 

From Concept to Commitment – Scion Announces New Product Plans

Production Version of iM Concept to Hit Showrooms Next Year

November 19, 2014

TORRANCE, Calif., (Nov. 19, 2014) – Start planning that next adventure; a new ride is on its way. After revealing the iM Concept car today at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Scion announced that a production version of the versatile five-door compact hatchback will be coming to dealerships in 2015. Fans will get a first look at the road-ready, sporty ride – and another new Scion model – at the New York International Auto Show in April.

“The two models we’re debuting in New York next spring are just the beginning for Scion,” said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. “We plan to bring three new products in three years to our showrooms, offering a variety of exciting options for current and new Scion customers.”  

As a test laboratory for Toyota, Scion attracts those with an independent spirit and desire to stand apart from the crowd. But many of today’s consumers between 18-34 years old also value a degree of practicality to support their self-reliance and more mobile lifestyles. Faced with greater independence and less disposable income, they value fun and sensibility in a vehicle choice.

The iM Concept is a hatchback that earns its name from characteristics aimed at this evolving audience. The “i” stands for individuality, intriguing and a good fit for customers’ income. The “M” stands for modern, multifaceted and magnetic. Its captivating styling and custom-blended “Incrediblue” paint are complemented by matte silver and gunmetal accents.

The iM Concept communicates its sporty handling and racing inspiration through a wide stance and low ride height for a grounded appearance. It features front and rear bumper overhangs that create dynamic surfaces, as well as geometric grille inserts, deep air intakes and fog lights. Large 19-inch forged alloy wheels sit flush with the body while vented rotors with 4-piston front calipers work with the adjustable-height racing suspension.

Urban drivers can expect the iM Concept to meet the needs of city streets with excellent fuel efficiency, sporty handling and easy parking. Details on the production version’s transmission, engine, technology and other details will be available in 2015. Pricing information will also be available next year, but Scion anticipates that a price under $20,000 could make this car enticing to youthful customers.

Scion Pure Process Plus
To go along with its evolving product line up, Scion is innovating around core values of efficiency and transparency when purchasing a car. Scion’s Pure Price means that the dealer’s advertised price is the price a consumer pays. No haggle. No hassle.

To take this experience further, Scion has been testing and successfully reducing the time it takes to buy a car through Pure Process Plus. This process – in place at more than 50 Scion dealerships across the country – allows buyers to research a car through Scion.com, find it at a dealership, apply for credit and secure a price, all without leaving the couch. Scion will continue working with dealers and Toyota Financial Services to fine-tune the process and plans to significantly expand its reach in 2015.

To follow Scion news at the LA Auto Show use the hashtag #iMDriven or visit http://www.scion.com/iMConcept.

 

About Scion
Scion continues to be the test laboratory division for Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. From its start in 2003, Scion’s goal was to offer products and processes that stand apart from the crowd. With a model line-up that includes the iconic xB urban utility vehicle, the tC sports coupe, the FR-S rear-wheel drive sports car, the premium micro-subcompact iQ and the xD urban subcompact 5-door, Scion offers distinctive vehicles that reflect owners’ passions and aspirations. Scion also appeals to a youthful audience by offering a simple, no haggle buying experience and by engaging with potential customers in meaningful and creative ways. For more information, visit www.scion.com.

Updated 11.16.14

 

Something about the fat rear tires and floating wide-body fenders of this Scion iM concept just screams WRX, does it not? In all likelihood, this is just a sportified version of a future Scion xD — reborn from the bones of the Toyota Matrix. But how sweet would a Scion WRX hatchback be…..!

We thought it was a tC previously… so why not go for being wrong twice =]

 

2014 Scion iM Concept

PREVIOUS

First look this morning at the very promising Scion iM concept car for Los Angeles!

The ‘iM’ name of this hot new Scion prototupe is a reference to the brand’s new Driven campaign, with fans and Scion drivers encouraged to tweet with the #iMdriven hashtag to show some love.

(Not to be confused with Range Rover’s #IamDriven contest .. which we did not win. A skydiver from ‘ellay’ won the trip to Carmel.)

 

So what is this Scion iM concept? It appears to be a hotter and more-aggressive sports car. The deep scoops and lighting elements are heavily FR-S-influenced, as is the low hood and giant fender flares shown on the two teaser images so far.

But the tight dimensions between the front door cutout and front axle point to a front-drive model – perhaps the future Scion tC. This new model will share a much more sleek design and sportier proportions. Low and wide appears to be the name of the game. Will it stay a two-door or become a four-door coupe? That remains unknown. But this concept is looking hot until we find out!

 

 

Lights…Camera…Action!

Scion’s iM Concept Car Prepares for World Premiere at L.A. Auto Show

October 22, 2014

Torrance, Calif., Oct. 22, 2014 – Like any new star about to step out on the world stage in Los Angeles, Scion’s new iM Concept car is taking some test shots. The photos, also debuting on Instagram, reveal the distinctively sporty front end of the car as it gets ready for the spotlight. The iM Concept car reflects the evolution of Scion as the needs and desires of its youthful customers also evolve. Fans are encouraged to join the conversation at #iMDriven.

Scion’s Los Angeles Auto Show press conference will be held Wednesday, November 19, at 3:40 p.m. in the South Hall. 
 

http://www.scion.com/social/sciondriven/

About Scion
Scion continues to be the test laboratory division for Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. From its start in 2003, Scion’s goal was to offer products and processes that stand apart from the crowd. With a model line-up that includes the iconic xB urban utility vehicle, the tC sports coupe, the FR-S rear-wheel drive sports car, the premium micro-subcompact iQ and the xD urban subcompact 5-door, Scion offers distinctive vehicles that reflect owners’ passions and aspirations. Scion also appeals to a youthful audience by offering a simple, no haggle buying experience and by engaging with potential customers in meaningful and creative ways. For more information, visit www.scion.com.