Based on the same stellar platform as the Mazda2, the front-wheel-drive iA rides on 16-inch alloy wheels and includes front struts, a stabilizer bar and a rear torsion beam suspension. Power comes from a 16-valve, 106-horsepower 1.5L 4-cylinder engine, which can be paired with either a standard 6-speed manual or optional automatic transmission. In the automatic, fuel economy is rated at 33 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway, while the manual-equipped iA returns slightly less, at 31 and 41, respectively.
The iA is available in one trim level. Standard features include power mirrors with integrated turn signals, a chrome-tipped exhaust and halogen headlights. Inside drivers will find push-button start, a backup camera, air conditioning, power windows and locks, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio and cruise controls and a 60/40 split-fold rear seat. A 7-inch touchscreen display controls the Toyota Access Connect multi-media system (though a large central knob does the job, too), while USB ports, Bluetooth hands-free phone and music streaming, along with voice recognition and SMS text functionality, provide cutting-edge connectivity.
Other than the $1,100 automatic transmission, the only other option in the iA is an integrated navigation system, to be installed at a dealer.
The iA is also loaded with safety features such as dynamic stability control, traction control and anti-lock brakes, plus a low-speed collision system, brake override and a host of front, rear and side airbags.
Despite the demise of Scion, the iA carries over into 2018 fundamentally unchanged. The big difference is that buyers will now have to find a Toyota showroom rather than a Scion showroom to get their hands on the compact sedan. The Scion iA has been redubbed the Toyota Yaris iA and can now be found exclusively in Toyota dealerships.
The Toyota iA goes up against compact segment stalwarts such as the Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta and Hyundai Accent, and the iA more than holds its own. With a sporty Mazda-based platform, standard features typically reserved for more upmarket cars and a very appealing low entry price, the iA is a lot of car for the money and one certainly worth a closer look.
