Scion Says New iA Sedan Shouts Success, We Say It Shouts Mazda2 Rebadge

The all-new iA is Scion’s first ever sedan and if you haven’t noticed it already, it’s a rebadged version of the latest Mazda2 sedan with a different snout, which all so happens to be the ugliest part of the car…

April Fools’ Day isn’t here yet, so we can’t help but giggle at Scion’s frisky press release that states:

“‘Dramatic’ could be an understatement when describing the visual impact of the 2016 Scion iA. Beneath the daringly curved sheetmetal lies a tight, agile machine that re-defines ‘entry level’. Call the design ‘class above’, a term that applies throughout the car.”

“If the Scion iA happens to be a customer’s first new car, then it’s going to be fondly remembered no matter how many others come later. If it’s a second car for the household, it may start arguments over who gets to drive it.”

Only one engine will be available for the iA in North America, Mazda’s 1.5-liter SkyActive gasoline engine producing 106-horses, linked to either a 6-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, with Scion claiming estimated fuel economy ratings of 33 city, 42 highway and 37 combined MPG.

Built at Mazda’s manufacturing plant in Mexico, the 2016 Scion iA will have a starting price of around $16,000 when it goes on sale in the U.S. this fall. Standard features will include a 7-inch multi-media system with voice activation and 16-inch alloy wheels.