The Vehicle
Scion's 2016 iM is a sporty mainstream hatchback arriving just in time for the just-announced dealer expansion of Toyota's so-called youth brand from 94 to 145 showrooms Canada-wide.
Signature feature
Strongly reminiscent of the discontinued Toyota Matrix, the iM "shows a familiar face, with a hexagon lower grille, sharp-eyed headlights and side bezels with honeycomb mesh pattern." Too bad the styling has been toned down from the bold concept that was introduced in Los Angeles.
What else is new?
Inside, the car is well-appointed (Pioneer sound system, seven-inch dash display, backup camera, leather-wrapped steering wheel, etc.) and adhere's to the brand's mono-spec strategy; that is, there is only one trim level. Pick the colour and throw in any optional accessories that tickle your fancy and we're good to go.
Under the hood
The iM features a 137 hp 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission for those who want the optional automatic transmission. Toyota says the CVT has been "sport tuned for driving pleasure." Howver, for old-fashioned driving fun, a six-speed manual is also available.
When can we buy it and for how much?
There's no official Canadian pricing yet, but the MRSP will be about $20,000 in the United States. Expect to see it in showrooms at the end of summer.
Cool quotient
3.5 stars (out of 5)
It's Matrix redux, and should prove just as popular.
The writer was a guest of the auto maker. Content was not subject to approval.