Scion’s First Sedan & Production iM to Drop in New York

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Scion is doubling up on its debuts for the New York City auto show in April, showing a couple of three new cars that may reportedly hit dealer lots over the next three years. Basically we already know the initial debut will be a production version of the iM concept we first saw in L.A., another debut continues to be somewhat of your mystery. Now, the automaker has revealed it will show off a new sedan, a first to thenothing else was revealed about the upcoming sedan, rumors have swirled that the new model is one of two new subcompacts set to begin production at Mazda’s Salamanca, Mexico plant alongside the new Mazda2. One of those cars is the next-gen Toyota Yaris, while the other is likely a Scion-branded model depending on the Yaris to switch the outgoing xD. Since it will be built by Mazda, it’s also likely it is going to use a Mazda Skyactiv powertrain, possibly the 1.5-liter four-cylinder that’s slated for the United states-spec 2016 Mazda2. We won’t know for sure until the sedan is revealed in New York in April.

Scion iM Concept front top view

Scion iM Concept rear end

Scion iM Concept rear three quarters 02

Scion also confirmed that the iM name of their L.A. show concept will carry over to the development model. We don’t expect that car to change much from the hatchback we saw late last year, since Scion claims the production iM will carry forward some of the sporty looks and versatility displayed in the concept version. The iM concept looked just like the Euro-market Toyota Auris in the event it first debuted in the Town of Angels, emphasizing its sportiness with a low and wide stance, deep air intakes, and geometric grille inserts. The concept was also equipped with a changeable-height racing suspension, with Scion boasting the iM will have excellent fuel efficiency, sporty handling, and a low cost of entry — under $20,000, as outlined by Scion.