Automotive Recyclers Association - Archive

Online Resources:

• scion.com
• Scion @ Budget Car News

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Scion Cars

As vehicles gain their rightful spot in the marketplace, they become known for certain traits, and at the same time, perceptions about the owners are established. Although Toyota has long been considered a quality car manufacturer, it also carried the perception of stuffiness, something that does not appeal to the up-and-coming generation. Thus, Toyota needed to find a way to break into the younger segment of the automotive market. As a result, the Scion was born.

Meaning heir, descendant or offspring, Scion was the perfect brand name for Toyota's foray into the younger auto demographic. Unveiled in 2004, there were two models, the xA and the xB. The next year, they launched the tC which was the sporty version featuring a more powerful engine.



One of the characteristics of buying a Scion is the no-nonsense price tag. There is no bargaining, no negotiation, no talk about price. The price tag on the vehicle is the price everyone pays. And this is a good thing for students which makes the brand that much more marketable. Students and younger people live on very tight budgets. Knowing what they are going to pay in advance is easier to save their deposit or full purchase price.

In addition, students want both inexpensive cars and also, cool cars. The Scion is perfect because it is customizable. Even the stereo systems are worthy of younger auto buyers. The Alpine2 Premium Audio System is a major component in the sales material, and ultimately, is a deciding factor when someone chooses a Scion. All the cars have excellent cargo areas too, making trips to school a breeze.

The newest 2009 addition to the line-up is quite exciting, partly because only sixteen-hundred will be available. Called the Electric Wasabi Limited Edition xD Release Series 2.0, it will actually boast individual numbered holographic badges.

Again appealing to the student market, the Scion division is offering a College Graduate Rebate and will also consider leasing for students with all types of credit histories. Active duty military personnel may also qualify for rebates.

There is no doubt that Toyota made the right decision to enter the younger marketplace. The Scion has been well received because the company focused on what was important to the students, which was predominantly a cool appearance, as well as guarding its reputation of quality.

Model Names and Years Introduced:

• 2004 xA
• 2004 xB
• 2005 tC
• 2008 xD
• 2009 Electric Wasabi xD
• 2009 tC Release Series 5.0
• 2009 Toyota Racing-themed limited release tC
• 2009 micro-subcompact concept car