“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.”
Scion iA: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Scion iA is a small, front-wheel-drive compact sedan known for nimble handling, strong fuel economy, and generous standard features. It was sold under the Scion name only for 2016 before becoming the Toyota Yaris iA.
The iA was Scion’s first sedan, and it aimed to make an affordable small car feel less basic. Its cabin, useful trunk, and standard technology gave it a more polished character than many low-cost rivals. Its time as a Scion lasted just one model year, but its identity was clear: simple, efficient transportation with a little style and substance.
Strengths
- Fuel economy is a clear advantage, with the 2016 iA rated at 33 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway.
- Nimble handling makes it well suited to commuting and city driving.
- Its standard low-speed automatic braking was uncommon among low-cost small sedans in 2016.
- The cabin feels more polished than the iA’s budget-minded positioning might suggest.
- A useful trunk gives this small sedan practical everyday carrying space.
- The one-trim lineup keeps used-car shopping refreshingly straightforward.
Who it's for
The iA suits commuters, students, and first-time buyers who want an easy-to-drive used sedan that does not feel bare-bones. It also makes sense for shoppers who value low fuel use and straightforward ownership more than strong acceleration or a wide range of versions.
Scion iA lineup
The iA lineup had just one trim, called Base, and it was designed to cover the essentials without making shoppers sort through several versions. It came with notable standard features for an affordable 2016 sedan, including low-speed automatic braking, a rearview camera, push-button start, and a 7-inch touchscreen. The main distinction among used examples is the transmission: some have a six-speed manual, while others have a six-speed automatic.
Scion iA generations
From 2016 to 2016, the iA spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2016.
1st Generation (2016)
Scion’s first sedan was a small, front-wheel-drive model with a 1.5-liter engine and either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. It came in one well-equipped trim with a 7-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, push-button start, and low-speed automatic braking.
7 In Stock
2016New generation
All-new model launched as Scion’s first sedan. This was its only year under the Scion name before it became the Toyota Yaris iA for 2017.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Scion iA a sedan or a hatchback?
The Scion iA is a four-door subcompact sedan. It seats five and has a separate trunk rather than the rear liftgate found on a hatchback.
What is the Scion iA known for?
The Scion iA is known for pairing nimble handling and strong fuel economy with a more polished cabin and more standard equipment than many basic small sedans.
Does the Scion iA come as a hybrid?
No. The Scion iA uses a gasoline 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. No hybrid version was offered under the Scion iA name.
Does the Scion iA have all-wheel drive?
No. Every Scion iA is front-wheel drive, meaning the engine sends power to the front wheels.
Is the Scion iA a good fit for commuting?
Yes. Its small size, nimble handling, and fuel economy of up to 33 mpg city and 42 mpg highway suit daily commuting. It also has a useful trunk and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat.
How powerful is the Scion iA?
The Scion iA has a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque. It was designed around efficient everyday driving rather than high performance.
Why was the Scion iA sold for only one model year?
The Scion iA had one U.S. model year under the Scion name. After Scion ended, the same sedan continued for 2017 as the Toyota Yaris iA.
Scion iA Reviews
What owners are saying about the Scion iA.
4.0
Scion iA
(107 reviews)
“The Scion IA is a practical car. Sporty enough, excellent on gas, very comfortable and has the technology I want i.e. Bluetooth, the ability to listen my favorite music from my phone. It is so a very comfortable ride at a reasonable price.”
“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.”
“I love the reliability. It's very economical and saves me money on a monthly basis. Comfortable and very dependable.”
“Love my Scion iA. Perfect car for me right now. I know eventually I'll need to trade it in as life circumstances change, but it's perfect for my lifestyle right now and a great vehicle. Will definitely purchase from Toyota brands in the future!”
“It's a great first time buyers vehicle. I feel extremely safe when driving and love my reverse camera!”