Photo: Scion
How do you come up with another “youthful” Scion model that’ll perfectly haul students around the campus in between parties? You grab a Toyota Auris, give it some crack and Voila! the new Scion iM.
We might be kidding with the crack, but the Scion iM concept that just got revealed today is in fact a modified Toyota Auris, which definitely looks more exciting than what Europeans get.
Scion says it still has some European influences, as its styling is inspired by touring car racing, which means it has a low ground clearance, wider fenders, bigger air vents, a rear air diffuser, 19-inch multi-spoke darkened rims wrapped in performance tires, bigger brakes and a tuned suspension. No info on the powertrain though.
“The tastes of today’s younger buyers have evolved. They want a car that provides excitement and individuality, as well as the comfort, technology and reliability that Scion offers,” Scion Vice President Doug Murtha explains. “The iM Concept combines sleek styling with the versatility of a modern hatchback to catch the eye of Scion customers. Stay tuned for more on how we will bring this vision to the road.”
On the other hand, Scion xB fans, if any left, have to hurry up if they want to purchase a factory new minimalistic straight-shaped hatch. Earlier reports said the iM will replace the xB, although we really hope it will actually be offered instead of that long deceased xD model.
Will the new iM become a sort of American hot hatch? Probably not, especially if it comes with small European engines like the 1.33 VVT-i or the 1.6 Valvematic and loose some of the design clad on it’s way to the production-ready version. We’re not even going to mention a diesel version.
We’ll have to play the waiting game some more. At least until November 19th, when a Scion press conference will be held at the LA Auto Show to shed more details on the new concept,
Scion says it still has some European influences, as its styling is inspired by touring car racing, which means it has a low ground clearance, wider fenders, bigger air vents, a rear air diffuser, 19-inch multi-spoke darkened rims wrapped in performance tires, bigger brakes and a tuned suspension. No info on the powertrain though.
“The tastes of today’s younger buyers have evolved. They want a car that provides excitement and individuality, as well as the comfort, technology and reliability that Scion offers,” Scion Vice President Doug Murtha explains. “The iM Concept combines sleek styling with the versatility of a modern hatchback to catch the eye of Scion customers. Stay tuned for more on how we will bring this vision to the road.”
Toyota Matrix fans, rejoice!
Those missing the Toyota Matrix should have a reason to be happy now as this iM thing will surely bring back memories. Especially because it will come in a new “Incrediblue” shade reminding of the dark blue on the older hatch.On the other hand, Scion xB fans, if any left, have to hurry up if they want to purchase a factory new minimalistic straight-shaped hatch. Earlier reports said the iM will replace the xB, although we really hope it will actually be offered instead of that long deceased xD model.
Will the new iM become a sort of American hot hatch? Probably not, especially if it comes with small European engines like the 1.33 VVT-i or the 1.6 Valvematic and loose some of the design clad on it’s way to the production-ready version. We’re not even going to mention a diesel version.
We’ll have to play the waiting game some more. At least until November 19th, when a Scion press conference will be held at the LA Auto Show to shed more details on the new concept,
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