“There are many design flaws that are inconvenient such as the placement of the radio on button, the lack of support for the driver's right arm, and odd restrictions such as not being able to open your trunk when the car is running”
2016 Scion iA: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 Scion iA was an all-new model and Scion's first sedan in the U.S. It launched as a small, front-wheel-drive car with one well-equipped trim.
About the 2016 Scion iA
First generation, first U.S. model year; also the only year this sedan was sold here as a Scion before becoming the Toyota Yaris iA for 2017.
Scion positioned the iA as a small sedan that did not feel stripped down. The pitch combined sporty styling, nimble handling, strong fuel economy, and a useful trunk with a cabin that felt more polished than many low-cost rivals. What set it apart was how much equipment was standard in one easy-to-shop version, especially safety and convenience features that many competing subcompact sedans either charged extra for or did not offer at all.
Scion positioned the iA as a sporty, affordable small sedan that did not feel bare-bones. Its sole trim pairs a 106-hp engine with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic and includes low-speed automatic braking, push-button start, a rearview camera, and a 7-inch touchscreen.
What changed, by category
Structural
The iA debuted as an all-new small sedan and Scion's first sedan in the U.S.
Powertrain
The first-year model uses a 106-hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Low-speed automatic braking and a rearview camera are standard on the sole trim.
Tech
The sole trim includes a 7-inch touchscreen with voice recognition, Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and a control knob, along with keyless entry and push-button start.
2016 Scion iA specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 33 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 42 mpg |
| Horsepower | 106 hp |
| Torque | 103 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 34.4 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Touch Screen Monitor | |
| USB Ports | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
Frequently asked questions
Was 2016 the first year for the Scion iA?
Yes. The 2016 model was the first U.S. model year for the iA and Scion's first sedan. It was also the only model year sold under the Scion name before becoming the Toyota Yaris iA for 2017.
How many trims did the 2016 Scion iA have?
The 2016 Scion iA had one trim. It came standard with features such as low-speed automatic braking, a rearview camera, push-button start, a 7-inch touchscreen, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
What engine and transmissions came in the 2016 Scion iA?
The 2016 Scion iA has a 106-hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. It was sold with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Did the 2016 Scion iA have automatic emergency braking?
Yes. Low-speed automatic emergency braking is standard on the 2016 Scion iA, along with a rearview camera.
Is there a 2015 Scion iA to compare with the 2016 model?
No. The iA began with the 2016 model year, so there is no 2015 Scion iA. The 2016 model stands on its own as the sedan's launch year.
2016 Scion iA Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Scion iA.
4.0
2016 Scion iA
(107 reviews)
“If you are looking for a fun and innovative car to drive then the Scion IA is for you. You will love the touch screen, Bluetooth, keyless entry and the exterior design is to die for. It is a classy and really bright cute car.”
“I love my vehicle, but I wish more things were done to it, like the AC needing to be recharged, new brake pads, and an oil change with new bolt barriers under the hood.”