Yes, the Scion iM concept is basically a Toyota Auris in drag, and bolting some flashy bits to it makes it kind of hard to justify calling it a concept. However, it previews a (distinctly sporty) production model that is set to arrive in dealerships in the spring of 2015, with a price tag under $20,000 – a sort of hot hatch, perhaps?
The ingredients are there: the Auris is not a bad handling car to begin with, nor does it look bad and with independent rear suspension, I`m sure engineers can turn it into something worth winding up on a windy road. Besides, the concept looks much sportier than the regular Auris does, with a wide body kit and massive 19-inch rims.
In concept form, it comes with four-piston calipers on all corners and height-adjustable racing suspension. Neither have a high likelihood of reaching production, but they do hint at Scion wanting to make this a properly driving fun-oriented machine.
No word on engines yet, though, as that would definitely tell us where they’re aiming to position the iM.
In Europe, the Auris can be had with a moderate array petrol and diesel power plants. The most potent gas engine in its roster is Toyota’s tried and true 1.8-liter with 134 hp – slot a turbo unit under its bonnet, and that will really get 18 – 34 year olds drooling…
Photo Gallery
