Scion Finally Reveals the 2016 iM

2016 Scion iM

Maybe it’s not the hot-hatch that I was hoping for from Scion, but I must say that the new iM is a pretty decent car. Scion just unveiled the new hatchback at the 2015 New York International Auto show, and let us in on all of the most important details.

The changes in the looks from concept to production are obvious, as Scion had no choice but to tame it down a bit to keep costs low. Nevertheless, it is still sporty looking, particularly with its standard 17-inch wheels and some of the bodylines. Buyers can get the iM in one of six colors: Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Barcelona Red Metallic, Spring Green Metallic and Electric Storm Blue.

2016 Scion iM

Under its hood, the iM lags behind the competition a good bit more than I’d hoped it would. It comes with a 1.8-liter Valvematic four-cylinder engine that put out just 137 horsepower. Yeah, it’s power is a little low, but its estimated 37 mpg highway makes up for it. Mating to this 1.8-liter engine is a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional sport-tuned continuously variable transmission with a manual mode that Scion dubbed the CVTi-S.

The iM has a Sport mode that tightens up the steering slightly and reconfigures the CVTi-S’ shifting patterns. Additionally G AI-Shift senses lateral G-force and keeps your speed while holding the transmission’s position.

2016 Scion iM

The iM’s cabin is decent, but nothing to write home about, but it does feature a few high-end items. Electric folding and heated mirrors, a six-speaker Pioneer audio system with a 7-inch display, a backup camera, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel-mounted controls, a 4.2-inch color info screen between the gauges, and dual-zone climate control are just some of the impressive standard features on the iM.

As with all Scions, the iM will have a collection of dealer-installed items that are available as options. These include navigation, body graphics, ambient lighting, a roof rack, and TRD performance products. Pet lovers can also opt for a dog harness, door guards, a grass pad to prevent your dog from standing on the center console, and a pet barrier.

The iM will hit dealers in the fall of 2015 at under $20,000.