The Scion iM is a compact hatchback that's based on the Toyota Corolla platform. It competes with vehicles like the Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Mazda 3, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza and Volkswagen Golf. Though some competitors offer sedan, coupe or wagon bodystyles, the iM comes only as a front-drive four-door hatchback.
A sole model is offered with either manual or CVT automatic transmission. Well equipped, the manual lists for $19,225 and the automatic for $19,995. Standard equipment includes power mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels, auto headlights, sport front bucket seats, height-adjustable driver seat, leather-trimmed tilt-telescope steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, 60/40 split-fold rear seats, Pioneer audio system with 7-inch touch screen with Bluetooth, HD radio, USB port and 6 speakers, rear-view camera and cruise control.
Options include upgraded audio system with touch-screen navigation, rear spoiler and custom wheels. The iM is built in Japan and has a $795 destination charge.
Power comes from a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 137 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. It mates either a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic and drives the front wheels.
The iM has a no-haggle price and comes with Scion Service Boost, a no-cost maintenance plan for 2 years or 25,000 miles. With the discontinuation of the Scion brand, the iM will be rebranded the Toyota Corolla iM for the 2017 model year.
On the road the Scion iM feels quite like any other compact, meaning it drives unremarkably. The suspension does a fine job of soaking up pavement imperfections without adding undue wallow or pitch. At the same time, the iM is also fairly nimble around town, hampered only by its numb and uncommunicative steering. Brakes have good stopping power when the iM is unloaded, but braking distances definitely increase with four adults aboard.
The engine provides adequate acceleration and no more. With either transmission, the iM is one of the slower vehicles in the class. Thankfully, the engine proves peppy enough for general around-town , stop-and-go driving. Fuel economy is a plus. With the automatic transmission the iM is EPA rated at 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. Routine suburban commuting will easily net 30 mpg overall and gentile highway cruising can lead to 40+ mpg.
Wind, road and engine noise are noticeably absent, even at extra-legal highway speeds. In fact, the iM may well be the quietest riding subcompact overall.
The interior sports study, if unexceptional, materials throughout. One nice touch is the center stack that's swathed in glossy piano-black plastic that, at once, spruces up the interior and provides an upscale appearance. The iM also boasts exceptional - for a compact - front bucket seats. They are well bolstered but not overly firm and provide great support on longer drives.
Head and leg room are quite good up front. Not so much in the rear as full-size adults will be asking front-seat occupants to scoot forward to provide additional knee and foot room. Cargo space is about average for the class and interior storage is also unexceptional.
The control layout is both functional and sporty. Two large dials face the driver through a thickly-padded steering wheel that boasts controls for both the audio system and multifunction display. The center stack groups audio and climate controls sensibly and proves close enough to allow for easy manipulation of the touch-screen display. It's simple and straightforward to control and provides added phone connectivity for those so inclined.
Overall, the Scion iM is a solid choice that will likely provide years of trouble-free operation. It's priced fairly considering the level of standard equipment and inclusion of 2-year free maintenance and roadside assistance. Though the Scion brand won't live past 2016, the iM will as a version of the venerable Toyota Corolla, thus providing a very strong dealer network for service.
|
|