Scion Launches Two Models in LA

Scion Launches Two Models in LA

by -

Just as the Lexus brand was introduced by Toyota over 10 years ago in its move to penetrate the upper reaches of the car market, Scion, a new Toyota brand, is being introduced to provide greater focus on the new and younger generation of customers in the USA.

At the Los Angeles Auto Show this week, Scion launched its first two models – the xA and xB – both shapes that are familiar to in Japan. The xA is based on a model known as the Ist (launched in Japan six months ago) and is a muscular-looking 5-door hatchback.

It uses a NZ-series VVT-I DOHC 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1.5-litres. The engine produces 79 kW/108 bhp of power and can be mated to manual or automatic transmissions.

Inside, the xA is visually appealing, with metal-tone instrument panel trim and matching ventilation controls on the centre console, stylized black-on-white gauges and textured treatments on the doors, dashboard and seats. The cabin layout is as functional as it is eye-catching.

There are numerous storage bins including an illuminated translucent storage compartment in the centre cluster and hidden under-floor storage in the cargo area, which gives owners maximum flexibility for carrying large and small items. The xA also features a standard cargo area cover to ensure that items are stored safely out of sight.

The xB is the Toyota bB in Japan (there’s also one in the UMW Toyota Motor head office in Petaling Jaya, Selangor – and it is not for sale). This has styling which follows the trends in Japan where cars for the younger generation are very boxy. The xB shares the same engine and transmission combinations as the xA.

On the outside, the xB sits low over its wheels and rises tall and wide with flat panels and 90-degree angles. This achieves maximum space from minimal exterior dimensions. It sits on P185/60R15 tyres and 15-inch wheels with a slightly lowered suspension for a firm feel with confident handling. A ‘ground effects’ body kit adds to the aggressive stance.

The xB features large door openings, tall seat-height and sprawling head and legroom. The interior is multi-purpose and has surprising versatility. The instrument panel is covered in a fresh, cross-grain vinyl that provides a modern look, while the centres stack housing audio and ventilation controls feature metal tone trim. The speedometer and odometer are more centrally-located for easier readability and feature black-on-white gauges, while auxiliary controls feature amber illumination.

The driver and front passenger get sports seats. The second row of seats fold flat in a 60/40 configuration and are also removable, along with the spare tyre, providing a completely flat floor for hauling cargo. Ample storage compartments throughout the cabin add even more utility.

Since music is know to play a key role with Scion’s young target audience, Pioneer was chosen to provide both vehicles with a standard 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system featuring Scion Sound Processing (SSP). This digital sound processing feature lets Scion drivers choose between three settings – SSP Neutral setting keeps the music in the background; SSP Hear enhances the sounds with crisp highs and lows; and SSP Feel has a sound curve that lets passengers not only hear the music, but feel it.

The standard and optional audio equipment is claimed to ‘satisfy the most techno-savvy consumers’. The standard CD player will read MP3 files and the audio head unit is satellite-radio-ready, for those who want to add this feature. The available six-disc CD changer features audio display illumination that changes among 10 colours at the touch of a button.

The most demanding audiophiles may even choose an available subwoofer. Both vehicles were developed with an increase in sound absorption materials, ensuring a quiet cabin for listening to music or conversing with passengers.

In addition to wheel covers and audio, Scion has developed approximately 40 accessories for each vehicle that will be covered under the standard Scion limited warranty when dealer- or port-installed. These items range from fog lamps, rear spoilers and interior mats to two-tone leather-wrapped steering wheels, strut tie bar braces and auxiliary interior lighting kits, accommodating a broad spectrum of customer tastes.

A third Scion model is in the works and will be launched in 2004. It will be based on the ccX concept car.

1 COMMENT

Leave a Reply