Youth brand from Toyota displays the latest Release Series tC and intros a new vehicle based on the Toyota Auris
Scion in LA
The Scion press conference at the 2014 LA Auto Show was marked by the first public showing of Scion's latest limited- production release, the 2015 tC Release Series 9.0 as well as the unveiling of a new model that it hopes will continue to resurrect the brand.
2015 tC Release Series 9.0
First shown at the 2014 SEMA show and designed by Cartel Customs, a mere 2,000 2015 Scion tC Release Series 9.0 models will be produced.
Outside it features a two-tone black and magma paint job with contrasting gloss black side mirrors and unique 18-inch alloy wheels. The body is further set apart from more plebian tCs with a Cartel Customs aero kit that sports front and rear lower valences, side skirts and rear spoiler. Lowering springs and a center-exit rear exhaust system, both from TRD, complete the package.
Inside there are sports seats with orange stitching that's also found on the steering wheel and seats, while orange paint trims the dashboard components, door panels and shifter surround. There's also a Smart Key with Push Button Start featuring the "Cartel Logo" plus orange front seat belts.
Pricing starts at $23,190 and it goes on sale in January, 2015.
Scion iM Concept
The first of three new vehicles Scion dealers will see in the next three years, the iM Concept (the "i" stands for Individuality, Intriguing and a good fit for customers' incomes while the "M" represents Modern, Multifaceted, and Magnetic) is based on a European Toyota Auris that was massaged by Troy Sumitomo of Five Axis.
While a production version will be unveiled at the 2015 New York Auto Show and reach Scion dealers sometime later in the year, it probably won't come standard (especially with a starting price under $20,000) with a number of bits that are featured on the concept including:
• Wider stance and lower ride height
• Custom front and rear bumper overhangs
• Geometric grille inserts, deep air intakes and fog lights
• 19-inch forged alloy wheels
• Vented rotors with 4-piston front calipers
• Adjustable-height racing suspension
images courtesy of newspress USA and Toyota
