Scion iM research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The iM is a practical, nicely equipped compact hatchback with Corolla-family mechanicals and a more sophisticated rear suspension than the Corolla sedan of the time. One trim came with dual-zone automatic climate control, heated power-folding mirrors, 17-inch alloys and a touchscreen with backup camera, and the CVT version is rated about 28/37 mpg. It was a Scion only for 2016 before becoming the Toyota Corolla iM.
Model years covered: 2016. The iM was sold as a Scion for the 2016 model year only; the same car was the Toyota Corolla iM for 2017-2018, replaced by the Toyota Corolla Hatchback for 2019.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Practical hatchback cargo area
- Generous standard equipment
- Corolla family mechanicals
- Available 6 speed manual
- Comfortable ride
- Toyota dealer service network
- Good fuel economy
Things to know before you buy
- Only one scion model year
- Modest acceleration
- Low body kit scrapes easily
- No automatic emergency braking on 2016
- No apple carplay or android auto
- Continued as toyota corolla im 2017 2018
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 1 (2016–2016)
The iM brought the Japanese-built Toyota Auris hatchback to the U.S. under the Scion badge for 2016, with a 137-hp 1.8L Valvematic four, a 6-speed manual or CVT with seven simulated steps, a double-wishbone rear suspension and a single well-equipped trim. It continued as the Toyota Corolla iM for 2017-2018 before the new Corolla Hatchback.
Buyer takeaway: A sensible, well-equipped used hatchback for commuters who want cargo flexibility; the CVT suits most buyers, the manual suits enthusiasts. Buyers who want automatic emergency braking should look at the 2017-2018 Corolla iM.
Scion iM by model year
2016 Scion iM
The 2016 iM is the U.S. version of Toyota's European Auris hatchback, sold by Scion for one year. A 137-hp, 126 lb-ft 1.8L four drives the front wheels through a 6-speed manual or a CVT with seven simulated steps, rated about 27/36 mpg city/highway (manual) and 28/37 (CVT). One well-equipped trim included dual-zone automatic climate control and heated power-folding mirrors. It became the Toyota Corolla iM for 2017.
- Engines: 1.8 liter I4 valvematic 137 hp 126 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; CVT continuously variable with 7 simulated steps
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- US version of the european toyota auris hatchback
- Built in japan
- Single well equipped trim with dual zone climate control
- Independent double wishbone rear suspension
- Power folding heated mirrors standard
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Manual or CVT resolution by VIN; CVT smoothness and fluid condition; Clutch engagement if manual; Touchscreen and backup camera operation; Suspension noises over bumps; Brakes and tires; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- CVT Operation and Fluid Condition (2016)
Most iMs have Toyota's CVT, programmed with seven simulated 'gears' to feel more like a conventional automatic. Toyota describes the fluid as long-life, but a smooth, quiet road test and a clean service history are still the best evidence of health, especially on higher-mileage cars.
What to do: Drive the car from a stop several times and at highway speed; stop if the CVT shudders or whines. - Six-Speed Manual Clutch Wear (2016)
The iM is one of the few compact hatchbacks of its era offered with a 6-speed manual. Check the clutch for slip or a high engagement point, which point to a clutch nearing replacement.
What to do: On a manual iM, test for clutch slip under firm acceleration in a higher gear. - Low Front Fascia and Body Kit Damage (2016)
The iM came standard with a sporty body kit (front lip, side sills and rear spoiler) and sits fairly low, so scrapes from curbs and steep driveways are common.
What to do: Look under the front bumper and along the side sills for damage. - Infotainment and Safety-Feature Context (2016)
The 2016 iM has a touchscreen audio system with Bluetooth and a backup camera, but not Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and it does not have the Toyota Safety Sense automatic-braking suite found on the 2017-2018 Corolla iM. Confirm the screen, camera and Bluetooth work.
What to do: If automatic emergency braking matters to you, compare with a 2017-2018 Toyota Corolla iM. - Wear Items and Maintenance History (2016)
The 1.8L four is a widely used, generally durable Toyota engine. On higher-mileage cars, focus on oil-change records, brakes, tires (the 17-inch tires cost more than economy-car sizes) and suspension bushings.
What to do: Ask for oil-change records and check tire condition. - Scion Brand, Toyota Successor, and iM Identification (2016)
The Scion iM was sold only for 2016. The same car continued as the Toyota Corolla iM for 2017-2018 (adding Toyota Safety Sense for 2017), and was replaced by the all-new Toyota Corolla Hatchback for 2019. Elsewhere it was sold as the Toyota Auris. It is unrelated to the Mazda-built Scion iA sedan.
What to do: Confirm the exact model year and transmission by VIN before comparing prices or specs; any Toyota dealer can service the car and perform recall work.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, transmission, equipment, and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies. Toyota dealers perform recall work on Scion vehicles.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Toyota Corolla iM
- Toyota Corolla Hatchback
- Mazda Mazda3
- Honda Civic
- Volkswagen Golf
- Ford Focus
- Hyundai Elantra GT
- Kia Forte5
- Subaru Impreza
Questions this guide answers
- Is the Scion iM a Corolla?
- What engine and transmission does the iM have?
- What fuel economy does the iM get?
- Does the iM have automatic emergency braking?
- What is the difference between the Scion iM and Toyota Corolla iM?
- Is the iM CVT reliable?
- What should I inspect on a used iM?
- Who services a Scion now?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- What similar hatchbacks should I consider?