Choosing the right used car can be a daunting task, especially when considering factors like reliability, safety, and overall value. The Scion iA, a subcompact sedan known for its fuel efficiency and affordability, presents a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. However, not all model years are created equal. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Scion iA, highlighting the best years to buy and those you might want to avoid, ensuring you make an informed decision.
The Scion iA, later rebranded as the Toyota Yaris iA and then simply Toyota Yaris, offers a practical and economical choice. Understanding the nuances between different model years is crucial for maximizing your investment and minimizing potential maintenance headaches.
| Year | Notable Pros | Potential Cons/Things to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 (Scion iA) | Excellent fuel economy, Standard safety features (low-speed pre-collision system), Fun-to-drive handling, Affordable price point. | Limited rear passenger space, Basic interior materials, Only one engine option. |
| 2017 (Toyota Yaris iA) | Same benefits as 2016 model, Toyota reliability and brand reputation. | Same limitations as 2016 model. |
| 2018 (Toyota Yaris iA) | Minor cosmetic updates (e.g., grille), Improved infotainment system (some trims). | Still lacks advanced safety features beyond the standard low-speed pre-collision system. |
| 2019 (Toyota Yaris) | Rebadged Mazda2 with Toyota badging, more safety features became standard, Upgraded interior quality (in some trims), Improved ride comfort. | Some may find the styling polarizing compared to earlier models, availability in some markets might be limited. |
| 2020 (Toyota Yaris) | Same benefits as 2019 model, Final model year, potentially increased collectibility (though unlikely). | Discontinuation means no future model improvements. |
Detailed Explanations
2016 (Scion iA)
The 2016 Scion iA represents the inaugural year of this model. It's particularly attractive due to its exceptional fuel economy, achieving an impressive combined MPG. Standard safety features, including a low-speed pre-collision system, provide added peace of mind. The iA's agile handling makes it a fun car to drive, especially in urban environments. Its affordable price point makes it an accessible option for first-time car buyers or those on a tight budget. However, the rear passenger space is somewhat limited, and the interior materials are fairly basic, reflecting its economy-focused design. Only one engine option was available, which might not appeal to drivers seeking more power.
2017 (Toyota Yaris iA)
Following Scion's discontinuation, the 2017 Toyota Yaris iA essentially carries over the same features and specifications as the 2016 Scion iA. The primary difference is the Toyota branding, which brings with it the perception of Toyota's renowned reliability and strong brand reputation. This can be a significant advantage for buyers seeking long-term dependability. However, the limitations of the 2016 model, such as limited rear space and basic interior, remain.
2018 (Toyota Yaris iA)
The 2018 Toyota Yaris iA offers minor cosmetic updates, such as a redesigned grille, which gives it a slightly refreshed appearance. Some trims also received improvements to the infotainment system, enhancing the driving experience. Despite these updates, the 2018 model still lacks advanced safety features beyond the standard low-speed pre-collision system. This is a crucial consideration for buyers prioritizing advanced driver-assistance technologies.
2019 (Toyota Yaris)
The 2019 Toyota Yaris marks a significant shift, as it's essentially a rebadged Mazda2 with Toyota badging. This collaboration resulted in a car with improved interior quality in some trims and enhanced ride comfort. Most importantly, more safety features became standard, making it a safer option compared to previous years. However, some might find the styling polarizing compared to the earlier Scion iA/Yaris iA models. Availability in certain markets might also be limited, depending on the region.
2020 (Toyota Yaris)
The 2020 Toyota Yaris is the final model year of this generation. It retains the benefits of the 2019 model, offering a well-rounded package of fuel efficiency, improved features, and enhanced safety. The fact that it's the final model year could potentially increase its collectibility in the future, although this is unlikely to be a significant factor. The discontinuation also means there will be no future model improvements or updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA/Yaris year is the most reliable? While all models are generally reliable, the 2019 and 2020 Toyota Yaris (rebadged Mazda2) are often considered slightly more reliable due to Mazda's engineering and improved build quality.
Are there any known major problems with the Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA/Yaris? Generally, these cars are known for their reliability. However, some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system and occasional sensor malfunctions.
Is the Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA/Yaris a good car for long road trips? While fuel-efficient, the limited rear passenger space and relatively basic interior make it less ideal for long road trips compared to larger sedans or SUVs.
Does the Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA/Yaris have good resale value? The resale value is generally average for the subcompact car segment, with Toyota-badged models holding their value slightly better than the original Scion iA.
What is the fuel economy like on the Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA/Yaris? The fuel economy is excellent, typically achieving around 32-35 MPG in the city and 40-42 MPG on the highway.
Are parts readily available for the Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA/Yaris? Yes, parts are generally readily available, especially for the Toyota-badged models, due to Toyota's extensive parts network. The Mazda2 based Yaris also has good parts availability.
Are the 2019 and 2020 Yaris models significantly different from the earlier Yaris iA models? Yes, the 2019 and 2020 Yaris are based on the Mazda2 platform, offering improved interior quality, ride comfort, and more standard safety features.
Which model year offers the best value for money? The 2019 and 2020 models offer the best value due to their improved features and safety, but earlier models can be attractive if budget is a primary concern.
Is the maintenance on the Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA/Yaris expensive? No, maintenance is generally affordable due to the car's simple design and reliable components.
Does the Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA/Yaris come with a manual transmission? Yes, a manual transmission was available on some model years, offering a more engaging driving experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Scion iA or Toyota Yaris iA/Yaris depends on your individual needs and priorities. While the early models (2016-2018) offer affordability and excellent fuel economy, the 2019 and 2020 models provide a more refined experience with improved features and safety. Consider your budget, desired features, and long-term reliability when making your decision, with the 2019 and 2020 models generally being the most recommendable due to the added safety and Mazda engineering.