We reviewed the all-new 2016 Scion iM hatchback in July after an intro in Grand Rapids (http://www.chicagonow.com/girls-go-racing/2015/08/2016-scion-ia-…m-introduction). Overall, we liked the iM, although found it a tad weak in the power department. Now, after our second preview, we have a more favorable impression of its assets, which are several for a compact vehicle.

First off, the Scion iM is an all-new, but familiar compact. Sold as the Toyota Auris in Europe, the iM is a hatch equivalent of the ever-popular Toyota Corolla. A “return of the Corolla wagon, ”the iM will appeal to not only its target audience: young and active, but also to the Boomers (much like other Scion products, namely, the xB).

While the iM offers a lot of goodies, it lacks some features common in competitive compacts. For instance, you won’t find any factory options, only one engine option slightly below average for other compacts (1.89-liter, 4-cylinder, 137 hp,.126 lb. ft. torque), active safety gear, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, or forward collision warning.

What you will get includes a long list of standard features, including power windows/door locks, 17-inch wheels/tires, rearview camera, Bluetooth, touchscreen infotainment system, cruise, keyless ignition/entry, power folding/heated side mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel, auto headlights, and streaming Internet radio/HD.

We especially like the dog-friendly accessory offered by Scion. With your pup’s safety in mind, Scion offers a package that includes a pet barrier for the seat, unusual grass pad that mounts on the center console to keep your pet from standing there, door guards to prevent claw scratches, and a tether to keep your dog tied when running errands.

Other standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, a standard body kit, and free scheduled maintenance for two years/25,000-miles, whichever comes first. Included in the free-scheduled maintenance are oil changes, filters, tire rotation and scheduled inspections.

This useful daily driver has a tight interior (cu. Ft. under 21), replaces the subcompact Scion xD. A sporty compact option, the iM is an entry-level vehicle starting at $18,460 ($795 destination). Scion subscribes to the ‘no haggle’ pricing regimen so expect to pay the price advertised.

The iM is road-trip worthy, but don’t expect to out-run the faster-moving vehicles when negotiating the on-ramp. This little 4-banger takes a longer time than we would like to get up to speed. Buyers can opt for navigation.
The iM weighs in at 2,943 pounds, seats five and has a 14-gallon fuel tank. Fuel economy is respectable and averages between 27/28 (MT/CVT)-36/37 mpg.