“Fun vehicle to drive, but the seats in the back are too small for bigger adults.”
Scion iM: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 13, 2026
The Scion iM is a compact five-door hatchback known for useful cargo space, tidy handling, and generous standard comfort and tech equipment. Sold only for 2016 under the Scion name, it returned for 2017 as the Toyota Corolla iM.
The iM followed a simple formula: one well-equipped hatchback instead of a long ladder of trims. It paired everyday comfort and flexible cargo space with a slightly sportier feel than a basic compact car. Its Scion run lasted just one model year, but the same basic car continued as the Toyota Corolla iM.
Strengths
- The hatchback shape provides useful cargo flexibility, with 20.8 cubic feet of cargo room in 2016.
- Standard equipment is generous, including a touchscreen, backup camera, and dual-zone climate control.
- Its tidy handling gives it a more athletic feel than many basic compact cars.
- Highway fuel economy reached 37 mpg in 2016.
- The one-trim lineup makes used examples relatively simple to compare.
Who it's for
The iM fits commuters and first-time buyers who want a small, easy-to-live-with car but need more cargo flexibility than a sedan provides. It especially suits shoppers who prefer a straightforward used-car search with plenty of everyday equipment already included.
Scion iM lineup
The Base trim is the entire iM lineup, not a stripped-down starting point. Every iM came with useful equipment such as a touchscreen, backup camera, dual-zone climate control, and alloy wheels. Shoppers are mainly deciding between the six-speed manual and the automatic rather than comparing trim levels. Pick the manual for more driver involvement or the automatic for easier daily commuting.
Scion iM generations
From 2016 to 2016, the iM spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2016.
1st Generation (2016)
The Scion iM was a five-door hatchback sold for one U.S. model year. It paired a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission and came as one well-equipped trim.
8 In Stock
2016New generation
All-new model joined the Scion lineup. This was its only year under the Scion name; the same basic hatchback returned as the 2017 Toyota Corolla iM.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Scion iM a sedan or a hatchback?
The Scion iM is a five-door hatchback. It has four passenger doors, a rear liftgate, and seating for five, so it is easier to load than a small sedan with a conventional trunk.
How much cargo space does the Scion iM have?
The Scion iM has 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Its wide-opening rear hatch makes the cargo area useful for groceries, luggage, and other everyday gear.
Will the Scion iM work for a small family?
It can work for a small family that wants a compact car with five seats and a useful hatch. Rear legroom is 32.7 inches, so adults should try the back seat if it will be used often.
Is the Scion iM a hybrid?
No. The Scion iM uses a gasoline-powered 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. No hybrid version was sold under the Scion iM name.
Does the Scion iM have all-wheel drive?
No. Every Scion iM is front-wheel drive. Power goes to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic.
What fuel economy does the Scion iM get?
The Scion iM is rated at 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. Actual results depend on driving conditions, maintenance, and driving style.
Is the Toyota Corolla iM related to the Scion iM?
Yes. The Scion iM had one U.S. model year, 2016. The same basic hatchback returned for 2017 with the Toyota Corolla iM name after the Scion version ended.
Scion iM Reviews
What owners are saying about the Scion iM.
4.2
Scion iM
(111 reviews)
“Just a great little car that is easy to drive, comfortable, dependable and good mileage. Sleek and easy on the eye and wallet”
“This vehicle fits everything I need it to with great gas mileage, great features, excellent price and versatile cargo space.”
“You're gonna love it. Drives like a beast, doesn't let down. Extremely smooth ride and it's a head turner.”
“Seats are very comfortable, the stereo is amazing, love the blue tooth, very spacious in the back where the back seat lays flat and my Golden Retriever is very comfortable on her bed which fits perfectly! Tires and Rims are 16 inch and are sharp looking. The gas gauge and outside thermometer are nice extras. I really can't say enough about this car, it fits my life style perfect!”
“It is reliable, dependable, economical and very functional. Handles great. Cvt transmission is not as smooth as a regular automatic.”