The Scion iM 1.8, produced for the 2015 and 2016 model years, represented Scion’s entry into the compact hatchback segment. Positioned as a sporty and value-oriented offering, the iM aimed to attract younger buyers with its distinctive styling and standard feature set. It was built on the Toyota E210 platform, shared with the Toyota Auris in international markets, and served as a direct replacement for the Scion xB and xA. The 1.8-liter engine with 137 horsepower was the sole powertrain option offered in the US market for the iM during its brief production run, paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration aimed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate performance for daily driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Scion |
| Model | iM |
| Generation | iM |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (137 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp, 102.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 128.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 137 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 171 Nm @ 4000 rpm (126.12 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2ZR-FAE |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1335 kg (2943.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 589 l (20.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4331 mm (170.51 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2601 mm (102.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Scion iM’s engine, the 2ZR-FAE, is a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Toyota’s ZR engine family, known for its reliability and efficiency. The 2ZR-FAE utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration helps optimize airflow and combustion efficiency. The engine produces 137 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 171 Nm (126 lb-ft) of torque at 4,000 rpm. The six-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option, featuring relatively short gear ratios geared towards providing a more engaging driving experience. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel economy and smooth operation over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The iM 1.8 with the manual transmission offers a reasonably engaging driving experience for its class. While not particularly quick, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. The six-speed manual allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, making acceleration feel more responsive. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, meaning the car doesn’t feel strained at highway speeds. Compared to a hypothetical higher-output engine, the 1.8L prioritizes fuel economy and ease of use. The manual transmission provides a more connected feel than an automatic would, but requires more driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Scion iM came standard with a surprisingly generous amount of equipment for its price point. Standard features included a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, automatic climate control, and a suite of active safety features known as Scion Safety Sense, which included pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams. Interior upholstery was a sporty fabric, and the dashboard featured a minimalist design. Optional extras were limited, primarily consisting of all-weather floor mats and cargo nets. The iM was offered in a single, well-equipped trim level, simplifying the buying process.
Chassis & Braking
The iM utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a double wishbone suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The iM is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard. The chassis is designed to balance rigidity with weight savings, contributing to the car’s overall handling and fuel efficiency. The relatively light curb weight of 1335 kg (2943 lbs) helps to offset the modest engine output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Scion iM was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its value proposition, standard features, and sporty styling. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to competitors like the Honda Civic Hatchback and Mazda3 Hatchback, the iM offered a more affordable entry point but lacked the refinement and performance of those models. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 31 mpg combined. Reliability was expected to be good, given Toyota’s reputation and the proven track record of the 2ZR-FAE engine.
Legacy
Although the Scion brand was discontinued in 2016, the iM was rebadged as the Toyota Corolla iM for the 2017 model year and continued in production for a few more years. The 1.8-liter 2ZR-FAE engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain, and used iMs are generally considered to be a good value on the used car market. While not a performance icon, the Scion iM 1.8 offered a practical, well-equipped, and affordable option for buyers seeking a compact hatchback. Its legacy lies in providing a stylish and feature-rich vehicle at a competitive price point, appealing to a younger demographic.
