Scion iA Sedan & iM Hatch Coming to New York
Scion has really big plans for the upcoming 2015 New York Auto Show. They’re going to unveil not one, but two new production models at the event, which is set to take place in the first full week of April.
These will be the first additions to the Scion lineup in over three years, which is about 25% of Scion’s 11-year lifespan. As you continue reading, you’ll get a peek at each of these new cars and learn what we know about their debut in a couple of weeks.
Scion iM Hatchback
This is the easy one… You may remember the Scion iM Concept (pictured below) from the 2014 LA Motor Show just a few months ago in November. Well, this is the production version of that car, and it’s basically just a US-spec version of the European Toyota Auris.
It’s possible that the iM will replace both the xD and xB in Scion’s current lineup – basically they’d be replacing two low-sellers with one (hopefully) high-seller. At least, if the Auris’ European performance is any indication.
It should be noted that while the Auris is offered in Europe with a myriad of powertrains – gasoline, diesel and hybrid – we’re guessing that the Scion iM will only be offered in petrol form. At least for starters.
Scion iA Sedan
The Scion iA requires a bit more guesswork, as this is a car that we haven’t seen before. At least not by the iA name. However, the automotive blogosphere seems to have reached unanimous agreement that this will be the Mazda2-based model we’ve heard rumors about since the new hatchback’s launch last year. Except, Toyota’s version would be a sporty, budget-friendly four-door sedan.
If the Scion iA is indeed the Mazda2-based model – complete with Mazda’s Skyactiv powertrain and technology suite – then this is really big news for Scion. Skyactiv has continued to be a huge hit with drivers everywhere, and adding it to the Scion lineup can only improve sales. Scion VP Doug Murtha shared a similar opinion…
“We’ve been eagerly waiting for this moment and are excited to introduce our new Scions in New York,” he said. “Both the iM and iA are tremendous additions to our lineup and will appeal to young people with different perspectives and needs. These cars represent the evolution of Scion and are kicking off a new wave of momentum for the brand.”
On the whole, this is looking like a really smart move from Scion, and we can’t wait to see both cars in New York; especially the iA sedan!