Outside of the wickedly entertaining Scion FR-S and the funky, boxy Scion xB, there hasn't been much excitement when it comes to Scion.
Hence our admittedly modest expectations when we rented a new Scion iM hatchback from Toyota for a brief preview.
Guess what? This new Scion iM hatchback is quite surprising.
Based on the European Toyota Auris, which is essentially a Toyota Corolla, the Scion iM hatchback manages to be the rare inexpensive Toyota that is engaging, fun to drive, and livable.
The first thing you notice is the iM's nimbleness. It might not be quite in the same league as the Ford Focus, Mazda3, or Volkswagen Golf, but it corners willingly and can dance even when pushed on a track. Not only does the Scion iM hatchback point well into corners, but it also rounds them off rewardingly after clipping the apex. It can definitely give the Mazda a run for its money.
The Scion iM hatchback delivers some refinement, with a more absorbent ride and less road noise than we're used to in most inexpensive hatchbacks.
Under the hood is a 1.8-liter, 137-hp four-cylinder, mated to either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission. There's not a lot of power here, but the CVT works well, with artificial steps that mimic a conventional automatic. There's also a manual mode for those who want to "shift."
Scion didn't scrimp inside, with lots of padded material and stitching to spiff things up. The seats in the Scion iM hatchback are really narrow, though, with side bolsters that can pinch, and they lack adjustable lumbar support adjustment.
Backseat room is snug, and the small rear window hinders rear vision. Folding the seats increase cargo space in this versatile hatchback, providing room to throw in a bicycle, for instance.
So far, the Scion iM hatchback delivers a decent driving experience and practicality for its modest price: $19,995 with the CVT, less expensive than the Mazda3 and four-door Golf. Yet the iM has a standard backup camera, touchscreen radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, and power heated mirrors.
We'll be buying a Scion iM hatchback this fall to see whether it's as compelling over the long term.
