Flash Drive

2016 Scion iM

June 16, 2016 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2016 Scion iM 5-Door Hatchback

The 2016 Scion iM has a crisp wedge shape with tasteful scoops and body cladding.
The 2016 Scion iM has a crisp wedge shape with tasteful scoops and body cladding.

Engine: 1.8-liter I-4 gas, 137 horsepower, 126 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 7-speed CVT automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 28/city, 37 highway, 32 combined

Base Price: $19,200

As Tested: $20,334

Performance:

Smooth, competent engine

Nicely matched CVT transmission

Sport and Eco modes

OK acceleration especially in Sport mode

Impressive fuel economy; our best was 42.3 mpg

Nimble

Fun to drive on twisty roads

Four-wheel disc brakes

Agile city commuter

Sharp body cladding and spoilers boost image

Front seat room is excellent. The seats are comfortable and supportive.
Front seat room is excellent. The seats are comfortable and supportive.

Handsome 17-inch alloy wheels

Comfort:

Stretch-out front legroom

Dual zone HVAC

Good side bolsters on front seats

Soft headrests

Ample headroom

Thick, contoured steering wheel

Adequate auxiliary controls

Tilt/telescopic

Driver seat height pump

Adult size back seat if front seats are up a ways

Rear seat accommodations are a little less opulent, but roomy and comfortable.
Rear seat accommodations are a little less opulent, but roomy and comfortable.

Very good rear headroom

Minimal floor hump

Soft, fold-down armrest with cup holders

Utility:

Adequate cargo space considering car’s size

Flat cargo deck

Cargo loops and a cargo cover

Shallow storage bins under deck

Split folding seats fold flat

Slight step up from cargo area

Good hatch clearance for tall people

Medium front door bins

Medium size, but deep two-part console bin

Medium size, non-locking glovebox

Hard plastic sunvisors

Small iPad bin with plug-in at front of center console

The split, flat-folding rear seats greatly increase cargo space and versatility.
The split, flat-folding rear seats greatly increase cargo space and versatility.

Good size infotainment screen

Two nice cloth seatback storage pouches

No real rear door bins, just bottle holders

Wow Factors:

Fun to drive

Crisp styling

Great fuel economy

Strong value proposition

Hatchback versatility

Whines:

Speedometer a little small

The rear 3/4 view is boxier than the front, but still nicely styled.
The rear 3/4 view is boxier than the front, but still nicely styled.

Cheap fabric headliner

Lots of plastic on door panels

Bottom Line:

The 2016 Scion iM 5-door hatchback is fun to drive, roomy, versatile, sharply styled, frugal on fuel, and a great overall value. Some corners were cut to keep costs down, but they’re not glaring. The Scion iM isn’t just a great little car; it’s a great car.