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2014 LA Auto Show: Scion Leaks Their Own iM Concept Car Ahead Of LA Auto Show…Because That’s How They Roll

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It happens every year.  An OEM will tease a car or concept that is going to debut at a up coming auto show and then anywhere from a week to a month before said show, said car leaks in all its glory.  The leak is usually a result of dealer documents leaking online or ninja photographers getting shots of the car as it rolls into the auto show venue.  Really there are all kinds of ways that a car can leak ahead of schedule.  Scion knows this just as well as the rest of us.  After dropping a teaser a few weeks back for their new iM concept interest in the car as been high.  They could feel the storm brewing, a leak was coming!  What were they going to do about it?!

2014_LAAS_Scion_iM_Concept_Front 2014_LAAS_Scion_iM_Concept_Rear

Leak it themselves! If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em!  Today Scion decided not to wait for the inevitable “leak” and did a digital reveal of their new iM concept car ahead of the LA Auto Show (where it is supposed to “officially” debut).  In addition to giving us the full monty we also got a little background on the concept via a press release.  It looks like the theme for the new iM is to basically merge the practicality and comfort that comes with your basic commuter with edgy and somewhat aggressive styling that is commonly found on sports cars.  I actually like the idea myself.  Why should a daily “A to B” car look like a boring box?  It shouldn’t!  How do you like the iM concept?  Would you get one?  Let us know in the comments.  For now, click the thumbnails for a larger picture and for more info check out the press release below.  Also stay tuned as I will spend some time with the iM concept at the LA Auto Show coming up!

Press Release:

Modern and Magnetic: Scion iM Concept Car to Debut at LA Auto Show

European Racing Circuit Styling and Hatchback Versatility for Scion’s Adventurous Audience

TORRANCE, Calif., (Nov. 12, 2014) – Whether it’s exploring the mountains or playing at the beach, Los Angeles offers adventures off every freeway. Young people just need a vehicle to get them, and all their gear, to their destination in style.  The new Scion iM Concept car is designed with that in mind and will debut on Wednesday, November 19 at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The iM Concept is a five-door compact hatchback with sporty looks inspired by those seen on the European touring car racing circuit. The concept brings in captivating styling with edgy, geometric grille inserts, deep air intakes and fog lights. The custom-blended “Incrediblue” paint is complemented by matte silver and gunmetal accents.

To create a grounded appearance ready for the road, the iM Concept has wide aerodynamics and a lower ride height. The performance inspiration carries through into the 19-inch forged alloy wheels and sporty performance tires. Vented front rotors and 4-piston calipers work with the adjustable height racing suspension to complete the racecar-influenced design.

“The tastes of today’s younger buyers have evolved. They want a car that provides excitement and individuality, as well as the comfort, technology and reliability that Scion offers,” said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. “The iM Concept combines sleek styling with the versatility of a modern hatchback to catch the eye of Scion customers. Stay tuned for more on how we will bring this vision to the road.”

Scion’s press conference will be held at 3:40 p.m. on Wednesday, November 19 at Scion’s display in the South Hall. To follow Scion news at the LA Auto Show use the hashtag #iMDriven or visit http://www.scion.com/blog.

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