Scion iA

Overview: Is the Scion iA a Good Subcompact Car?

The Scion iA, a one-year-only model sold for the 2016 model year, represents a unique collaboration in the automotive world. Coinciding with the final year of Toyota's youth-oriented Scion brand, the iA is a rebadged Mazda2 sedan. This subcompact car aims to offer a blend of efficiency, affordability, and a touch of sportiness to young buyers entering the new car market. The Scion iA lived on for a few more years as the Toyota Yaris iA, but this overview only looks at the Scion iA.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Scion iA cars for sale.

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Related: The Scion iA Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Scion iA offers:

• Subcompact sedan body style
• 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine
• Six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission
• Front-wheel drive (FWD)
• Standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Low-speed pre-collision system
• Keyless entry with push-button start
• EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 42 mpg highway

Trims

Unlike other Scion models, which offer a single trim level with various options, the iA comes in just one well-equipped configuration. This simplified the buying process, aligning with Scion's "pure price" philosophy. The only significant choice for Scion iA buyers is between a manual and an automatic transmission.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Inside the iA's cabin, drivers are greeted by a surprisingly upscale interior for its price point, reflecting its Mazda DNA. The dashboard features a 7-inch touchscreen that sprouts from the center, controlled by a rotary knob like more premium vehicles. This infotainment system offers Bluetooth connectivity and voice recognition, though it lacks Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration.

The front seats provide decent comfort for a subcompact, with manually adjustable settings to find an ideal driving position. Rear seat space is tight, as expected in this class, but the second row can accommodate adults for short trips.

Despite its small footprint, the iA offers a respectable 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space, besting some category competitors. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats add versatility for carrying longer items.

Review: Which Years Of Used Scion iAs Are Most Reliable?

How It Drives

Behind the wheel, the Scion iA delivers a driving experience that punches above its weight class. Its Mazda-sourced 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces a modest 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers may seem low, the iA's lightweight (about 2,400 pounds) helps support peppy performance around town.

The six-speed manual transmission offers crisp shifts and enhances the car's sporty feel, while the optional six-speed automatic provides smooth operation and slightly better fuel economy. The iA's steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver. The suspension balances comfort and sportiness, soaking up road imperfections while maintaining composure in corners. That said, this is still a subcompact car with a short wheelbase; outings on bumpy roads remind of the iA’s size.

Scion iA mpg ratings of 31 mpg city and 41 mpg highway (with the automatic transmission) make this an efficient commuter. Its small size and tight turning radius make it ideal for navigating crowded urban settings and squeezing into tight parking spaces.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) didn’t evaluate the Scion iA.

Reviews

Scion iA consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are mostly positive, with this car getting an average rating of 4.1 out of 5. Owners especially like the iA for its reliability, performance, and styling.

Learn More: Engine Replacement Labor Time & Cost: What To Know

Scion iA FAQs

Is a Scion iA a fast car?

While not considered fast by performance car standards, the Scion iA offers peppy acceleration for its class, especially with the manual transmission. Its lightweight composition contributes to a responsive feel in urban driving.

Is the Scion iA a Mazda?

Yes, the Scion iA is essentially a rebadged Mazda2 sedan. It shares its platform, engine, and many components with the Mazda2. Mazda never sold the sedan version of the Mazda2 in the U.S., only a five-door hatchback edition from 2011 through 2014. There is no Scion iA hatchback.

Is it hard to find parts for Scions?

Generally, locating parts for Scions is not difficult as they share many components with Toyota vehicles. In the iA case, many parts are interchangeable with the Mazda2 and later Toyota Yaris sedan models.

Do Scions last long?

Scions, including the iA, are built on Toyota's reputation for reliability. Mazdas have an equally strong history of dependability, especially among newer models. With proper maintenance, a Scion iA can last well over 200,000 miles, similar to other Toyota and Mazda products.

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