Scion recently debuted a new car in what they deem the fun hatch segment. The 2016 Scion iM has a sporty and versatile five-door design.
The compact car sports a 137 horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that uses Valvematic continuously variable valve timing technology to offer a broad torque curve, so the iM feels responsive in all situations. The Scion iM has a standard six-speed stick shift but also has an optional intelligent, continuously variable transmission that’s been sport-tuned for driving pleasure — that’s why it’s called the CVTi-S. The CVTi-S has a sport mode, as well as manual shifting capability with seven stepped shift points.
Based on the Scion tC sports coupe platform, the 2016 Scion iM uses ample high-strength steel and special reinforcements in the body structure. It features double-wishbone rear suspension, so as not impinging on cargo room, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels with fat 225/45R17 tires.
Inside, Scion prides the iM on its premium interior without the premium price. High-quality materials are found throughout the cabin, and outside noise is kept at bay with an acoustic layer windshield, foam-type insulation and floor silencer sheets. The iM’s six-speaker Pioneer sound system is controlled through an easy-to-use seven-inch Pioneer display audio unit that also includes standard HD Radio and Aha. The display screen also provides the view for the backup camera.
On the exterior, the iM gets a piano black grille treatment, LED daytime running lights and taillights, and color selections that pack some pop: Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Barcelona Red Metallic, Spring Green Metallic and Electric Storm Blue.
For those who see the car as a blank canvas, Scion offers a full range of dealer-installed accessories. A sampling includes: navigation upgrade kit, body graphics, cargo area enhancements, interior light kit, all-weather floor mats and more.
The Scion iM will also offer a line of Toyota Racing Development performance accessories, including an air intake system, sway bar, lowering springs and more.
A 2016 Scion iM with a CVTi-S transmission will cost a buyer right around $20,000.
Servicing the 2016 Scion iM
NORMAL MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Every 5,000 miles or six months:
• Check installation of driver’s floor mat
• Inspect and adjust all fluid levels
• Inspect wiper blades
• Rotate tires
• Visually inspect brake linings/drum and brake pads/discs
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months:
• Replace engine oil and filter
Every 15,000 miles or 18 months:
• Inspect ball joints and dust covers
• Inspect brake lines and hoses
• Inspect drive shaft boots
• Inspect engine coolant
• Inspect exhaust pipes and mountings
• Inspect radiator and condenser
• Inspect steering gear box
• Inspect steering linkage and boots
Every 30,000 miles or 36 months:
• Replace cabin air filter
• Replace engine air filter
• Inspect brake linings/drums and brake pads/discs
• Inspect front differential oil
• Inspect fuel lines and connections, fuel tank band and fuel tank vapor vent system hoses
• Inspect fuel tank cap gasket
• Inspect transmission for signs of leakage
Initial inspection at 60,000 miles or 72 months, with an inspection every 15,000 miles or 18 months thereafter:
• Inspect drive belts
Every 120,000 miles or 144 months:
• Replace spark plugs
• Replace vacuum pump for brake booster
ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS FOR SPECIAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
Driving on Dirt Roads or Dusty Roads:
Every 5,000 miles or six months:
• Inspect ball joints and dust covers
• Inspect drive shaft boots
• Inspect engine air filter
• Inspect steering linkage and boots
• Replace engine oil and filter
• Tighten nuts and bolts on chassis and body
Driving while towing, using a car-top carrier or heavy vehicle loading:
Every 5,000 miles or six months:
• Replace engine oil and oil filter
• Tighten nuts and bolts on chassis and body
Every 30,000 miles or 36 months:
• Replace front differential oil (manual transmission only)
• Replace manual transmission oil
Repeated trips of less than five miles in temperatures below 32 F/0 C:
Every 5,000 miles or six months:
• Replace engine oil and filter
Extensive idling and/or low-speed driving for a long distance such as police, taxi or door-to-door delivery use:
Every 5,000 miles or six months:
• Replace engine oil and filter
Every 60,000 miles or 72 months:
• Replace front differential oil (automatic transmission only)
• Replace transmission fluid
Fluids and Capacities
Motor Oil: 0W-20; capacity is 4.4 quarts
Transmission Oil: CVTF FE S
[[At a Glance: Motor Oil: 0W-20
Capacity: 4.4 quarts
Transmission Oil: CVTF FE]]
