Jalopnik Snap Judgment: A "drop in profit" is significantly different than a "multi billion-dollar loss," meaning Toyota isn't in the same boat as our struggling home-team automakers. Or are they? We really want to know what Credit Suisse analyst Koji Endo means when he says "The numbers on the surface don't look that bad, but when you look at what they are showing, the situation is extremely tough for Toyota." Are losses from a rising Yen, taxes, interest, global sales fluctuations, and other market forces having a bigger effect than Toyota is letting on? Either way, cracks in the armor are starting to show: Scion isn't the youthful gem it once was, Toyota's recent truck launches have been flawed, and the adage "Toyota can do no wrong" is no longer conventional wisdom. [Detroit News]

Toyota is still expected to be several hundred thousand units ahead of General Motors at the end of 2008, mainly due to the fact that the same market forces hurting Toyota are decimating sales at the General. Coupled with the fact that Toyota is already working to switch truck and SUV production over to car production at its U.S. plants indicates a weak 2008 should be followed with a much-improved product mix for 2009; time will tell how quickly GM can move to introduce its new small cars like the Chevy Cruze to the market.

But perhaps the biggest indicator separating the two companies lies in what we affectionately refer to as "the bottom line:" Despite all the worldwide market issues, Toyota profit for the year ending next March is still expected to be $12.8 billion. Has GM made that kind of money since Nixon was in office? [Automotive News (Sub. Req.); Photo Credit: Off-Road Web]

Editor-in-Chief

It took a bit of poking and prodding, but we managed to round up four "green" track cars for the Grassroots Motorsports Ultimate Track Car Challenge on Sunday. We have two Jetta TDIs—the Chili Pepper Racing TDI and the Kerma TDI. We'll also have the AC Propulsion eBox, which currently holds the 1/8th mile record with the National Electric Drag Racing Association for a street conversion. And finally, we have the Organic Racing Lotus 7 replica (an E85-powered WCM Ultralite S2K). These four will compete to see who's the fastest, and who's the greenest. Stay tuned for full coverage of Sunday's event at Buttonwillow.

"Since Scion customers are in tune with audio technology, it makes sense that we enhance our already outstanding audio offerings for them," said Jason Adang, Accessory Audio and Electronics Planning Manager, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. "Digital HD Radio technology is ideal for our youthful, tech-savvy customers who will enjoy the wide range of content available on HD Radio channels."

Despite HD Radio's recent attempts to revitalize its name, the fact of the matter is that HD Radio is a niche that nobody wants to explore, especially the youth-demographic that Scion desperately wants. Oh, and the last time we checked being "in tune with audio offerings" doesn't mean "adopting technology on the brink of extinction, Toyota and Scion. [Orbitcast]

Personally, Assy McGee is a fantastic and hilarious show and I don't blame Scion going that way to reach out to the youth it desperately wants to appease. Not surprisingly, this is Scion's second cameo in Adult Swim programming. The Scion tC was featured in Frisky Dingo. [Winding Road]

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*EDIT: We tried to put the pics in order, but the internets are confounding us today

I threw together the un-official Jalopnik Scion crest above and plan to make stickers out of it that will adorn every single review vehicle that we come across. (Not really, PR folks)

Apparently, Scion held focus groups in which Scion drivers said they would like a build-your-own, canned creativity, graffiti generator. I know you enjoy your Scion, but a cheesy crest, really? [Scion Speak via CarScoop]

Instead of being only a contest for Photoshop whiz kids, for this one, we'll be giving bonus points to those who use the crudest software drawing package. If you send us a design using ASCII, you've got a better chance at winning than the guy using MSPaint who has a leg up on the guy using Photoshop. This is not to say the people using P-Shop can't win. Perhaps he or she uses a design completely consisting of a mosaic of kittens duplicated with the stamp tool. Be creative, be inventive, be original, and use curves, heavens knows Scion didn't. Send us your submissions via a post on this thread, or directly to myself at the address on the sidebar by Wednesday of next week. We'll cull the initial entries and let you all vote on the winner, then that lucky artist will see both of those sweet Scion hats arriving by mail for the efforts. Good luck, and may the best crappiest design win.

The Hako Coupe was designed by Scion's Tokyo design division and it was supposedly inspired by the emergence of American vintage style among young Japanese trendsetters. If this is American vintage, then I don't know if I want to be American. I'm sorry, Scion, this is a bit much. Oh and if you are wondering, on the rear, the right circle on the lower side is the exhaust, and the matching one on the left is the reverse light. Yes, very strange.

This inside of the Hako Coupe is a bit more valid than the exterior. The inside is chock full of futuristic doodads including a trackball-like interface on the steering wheel. The passenger side has two LCD displays where media can be controlled. The backseat of the Hako also includes screens that are connected to video cameras placed on the outside of the Hako. Let the YouTube hoonage commence.

Scion Reveals Hako Coupe Concept At The 2008 New York International Auto Show Related Media

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03/19/2008

March 19, 2008 - New York - Scion unveiled its Hako Coupe Concept vehicle at a press conference today at the New York International Auto Show.

Scion's Hako Coupe was developed by Tokyo Design Division, which studied global, youth-inspired trends. Japanese and American youth cultures often influence each other and are interpreted with a unique twist. The Hako Coupe Concept was inspired by the iconic xB and the emergence of American vintage style among young Tokyo trendsetters.

"Scion's Hako Coupe Concept embodies a distinct global perspective on today's youth," said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president. "This type of forward thinking complements the Scion philosophy of intently listening to our customers and being willing to take risks to help us see where our brand should be. We took the xB's iconic boxy shape and explored something more vivacious, yet just as emotionally appealing. This concept is the sporty version of a box."

Tokyo Design developed the Hako Coupe with classic American coupes in mind. The car's geometric profile conveys a powerful stance in a compact and bold package. Its trapezoidal LED headlights lie parallel with a large and aggressive, rectangular upper grille. The lower rectangular grille anchors the front fascia and continues to communicate the Hako's aggressive attitude. Round fog lights, symmetrically placed high on the front bumper, have integrated turn signals.

The Hako's silhouette is accentuated by slim, race-car-inspired side mirrors that also feature integrated turn signals. Powerful, flared fenders add dimension and contrast to the concept's boxy shape and smooth surface planes. The Hako concept hugs the road with custom 18-inch deep dish five-spoke wheels and tires with a "Scion" custom tread.

The Hako Coupe features a vertical windshield as the concept sits upright and ready to attack the road. A high linear beltline along with a blackened and chopped greenhouse seamlessly wrap around the rear to provide a mysterious profile. As an example of potential personalization, the concept is equipped with a flat, panorama roof that features a random, barcode-like pattern that can be seen on the exterior and from the interior.

The rear features LED taillights that echo the shape of the headlights. To complete the package, the rear bumper has an integrated fog and back up light on the left and exhaust on the right.

Inside, the Hako is accented with orange and metallic detailing that exudes a modern environment with entertainment possibilities. The front and rear seats are covered with urethane and rubber-like upholstery for easy cleaning. The contemporary front bucket seats flow to the floor and incorporate a geometric design on the seatback. The seats are separated by a center console that features a large storage crevice for storing magazines, cell phones, and other small items. Two cockpit-like rear seats also share a storage crevice.

The orange driver's seat has a gaming theme. Instrumentation and warning lights cascade from the art inspired instrument panel to the steering wheel. The shifter, located on the center console, resembles a large joystick. On the steering wheel is a simple button to start the engine and a track-ball type control for the Hako's entertainment system located on the passenger dash. The entertainment system consists of two video monitor screens mounted on the dash for radio, video, and music capabilities. Users can upload their videos and music through a Bluetooth® connection. The front passenger controls the system using a large rollerball mounted on the center of the dash. A black seat differentiates the front passenger area.

Video monitors located on each door and on each side of the rear seating area project distorted fish-eye images from orange filtered cameras mounted beneath the A-pillars. While the vehicle is parked the driver and passenger can edit the scenes captured by the cameras to show their friends where they have been and perhaps even post the clip online for others to see.

"As you know, polarizing style fits in well with our lineup," said Hollis. "And of course we love a good box. We'll listen to the feedback from this concept to help us determine how our brand could evolve and grow over the next five years."

Scion To Reveal All-New Coupe Concept At 2008 New York International Auto Show

March 5, 2008 - Torrance, CA - Scion will unveil an all-new concept vehicle, the Hako Coupe, at the 2008 New York International Auto Show. The sporty interpretation of the box concept was developed by Tokyo Design Division which studied global, youth-inspired trends.

The Scion press conference will take place on Wednesday, March 19 at 3:15 PM ET in the Special Events Hall in Javits Convention Center. For those unable to attend, the event will be streamed live to the Scion.com website. Following the event, a video clip of the press conference will also be available for viewing at Scion.com.

Scion Announces Pricing for tC Release Series 4.0 - to be Displayed at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show

TORRANCE, Calif., Feb. 1 /PRNewswire/ — Scion, of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., announced today that the second limited-production Scion for 2008, the tC Release Series 4.0 (tC RS 4.0), will be available at dealer showrooms beginning in March. A tC RS 4.0 will be on display in the Scion booth at the Chicago Auto Show.

The 2008 tC RS 4.0 will feature Galactic Gray Mica exterior paint and will come with VIP-themed enhancements. A DAMD body kit and upper grille will make this tC standout. A color-keyed rear spoiler will also be available. Inside, the tC RS 4.0 will have gray and black Alcantara(R) seats, "tC RS 4.0" embroidered on the front and rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a black leather and dark wood RAZO shift knob. Like all Release Series vehicles, an individually numbered badge will complete the uniqueness of this vehicle.

Only 2,300 units of the tC RS 4.0 will be built. The tC Release Series 4.0 model will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $2,770 over the base price of the tC. The manual transmission tC has a base MSRP of $17,000, while the MSRP for the automatic transmission model is $17,800. The available color-keyed spoiler has an MSRP of $285, not including installation.

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $620 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fees for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

Oh, and to make things better it's also been converted to RWD (so it's theoretically drivable). There's no telling how much money has been put into this car, but according to his estimates there's been at least 10 months worth of work done on the car to get it converted, painted and ready to drive. Wouldn't it have been easier to just use a Hayabusa? [CarDomain via CarScoop]

This was actually suggested as a re-gift by POLAR, but we can't help but sort of appreciate the effort for the one-off. [Scion]

A strange story out of the Automotive News this AM. Japan's New Model Magazine X reports Toyota is planning to port over the Subaru Tribeca as a Scion product. The magazine shows a spy photo of a Tribeca-looking vehicle wearing Scion-like badging. Considering companies often slap badges on their prototypes' disguises as subterfuge, this story's pretty far down on the believability scale. Nonetheless, our undying love for Japanese magazines continues unabated. Pizza-flavored Pocky anyone? – Mike Spinelli

[Automotive News via eGM Car Tech]

Related:
Over the Back Fence: Scion Pickup? C'mon [internal]

Future Truck: 2010 Scion xP [PickupTruck.com]

Related:
Scion's Fuse Concept at the NY Auto Show; Report: Nissan to Launch Cube, Two More Subcompacts in the US [internal]

SCION ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR 2008 tC

TORRANCE, Calif., May 31, 2007 — Scion, of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., announced pricing today for the 2008 tC sports coupe and tC Spec Package models. The 2008 tC and tC Spec Package will be available at dealerships next month.
The core model tC receives freshened styling, new standard equipment and safety features for 2008. Exterior changes include a new upper mesh grille, lattice lower grille, projector-type low beam headlights with black trim, and rear tail lights similar in style to the tC's headlights with round combination lamps. The tC also receives a deep orange combination meter on the instrument panel, silver-colored accents on the door assist grips and center cluster, updated seat fabric and a Pioneer subwoofer located under the cargo area.

Like all 2008 Scion models, the tC comes standard with seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, and two complimentary factory-recommended maintenance services, at 5,000 and 10,000 miles, at any Scion or Toyota dealer. The factory recommended maintenance includes an oil change, a tire rotation, a visual brake inspection, and the topping off of washer fluid.

Apple iPod connectivity becomes standard on all 2008 Scion models. Scion's standard 160-watt maximum output Pioneer AM/FM/CD audio system features a head unit with iPod control. This head unit integrates track, artist and album information from the iPod into a one-line display on the head unit's screen. Connectivity is achieved by simply plugging the iPod into a port via a connector cable, providing outstanding sound quality through the car's stereo system and constant power to the iPod. Music is controlled through the head unit, steering wheel audio controls or iPod. A standard mini-jack port also allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the tC's Pioneer speakers.

Scion also offers a Pioneer Premium audio system that adds the ability to download "skins" to play on the organic electroluminescent (OEL) faceplate. Customers can download images, four-second video clips and eight-second movies from Pioneer's website. Pioneer software also allows customers to burn their own images and movies onto a CD and upload them onto the available head unit. The Premium audio system also has head unit outputs on the rear for the addition of external amps. New to the accessory line up for the 2008 model year is the Scion navigation system. The system features a 160-watt maximum power audio/video/navigation unit with seven-inch LCD touch screen.

The tC Spec Package model, a blank canvas for the tuner community to express its creativity, also receives the grille, deep orange combination meter and silver-colored interior accents in addition to the new airbags and iPod connectivity across the Scion line-up. The tC Spec Package will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $15,300 for a manual transmission and $16,100 for an automatic transmission, an increase of $300, or 2.0 percent and 1.9 percent respectively. With the additional standard equipment, the base MSRP for the core model tC is $17,000 for the manual transmission and $17,800 for the automatic transmission, an increase of $600, or 3.7 percent and 3.5 percent respectively. MSRP does not include delivery, processing and handling fees, which vary depending on location.

Related:
Chicago Auto Show: Scion's New Angry Washing Machine, the 2008 xB, Debuts [Internal]

Oh yeah, in all of the excitement to show off the Scion's two brothers yesterday, the all-new 2008 Scion xD and the re-styled 2008 Scion xB, everyone forgot about the new-for-2008 Scion brand sales leader, the tC. Well, let's rectify that little problem, because hey — Scion's issued a press release and some PR shots. The tC gets a bit of a newer style including an upper mesh grille, and rear tail lights with a styling that'll make sure you'll be confused as to whether you'll be looking at the front or the back of the bargain-basement budget b-segment car. The tC's still got the "Fun-To-Drive Performance" provided by the 2.4-liter four cylinder VVT engine capable of humming along at 161 hp and with 162 lb-ft of torque. This year's tC, along with it's more flashy brothers, also comes standard with Apple iPod connectivity and a head unit with iPod control. No word on whether the connector cable will provide the head unit information from the iPod via a digital link like Ford's Sync system or if it'll use an analog translation system like that found with GM's PAL system. Oh and it'll also have a standard mini-aux jack in case you've got a Zune or some other form of non-iPod music device. It also comes with a first aid kit in case your ears start to bleed from pumping your music through the Pioneer speakers a wee bit too loud. Gallery below and full press release after the jump. – Ray Wert

Scion tC Receives Freshened Styling And Standard Apple iPod Connectivity For 2008

February 8, 2007 - Chicago - The Scion tC, the best-selling vehicle in the Scion lineup, raises the bar in the sports coupe segment as it receives sharp styling revisions, new standard equipment and safety features for 2008.

Freshened Exterior and Enhanced Interior
The 2008 tC is distinguished by the new Scion family front fascia, a menacing horizontal combination of headlights and grille. For the tC this includes a new upper mesh grille, lattice lower grille and projector-type low beam headlights with black trim. The tC also receives eye-catching rear tail lights similar in style to the headlights with round combination lamps.

Inside, the tC receives a deep orange combination meter on the instrument panel, silver-colored accents on the door assist grips and center cluster, updated seat fabric and Pioneer subwoofer.

Azure Pearl and Black Cherry Pearl exterior colors were replaced with Sizzling Crimson Mica and Wave Line Pearl.

Standard iPod Connectivity
Apple iPod connectivity is standard across the Scion lineup for 2008. Scion's standard 160-watt maximum output Pioneer AM/FM/CD audio system features a head unit with iPod control. This head unit integrates track, artist and album information from the iPod into a one-line display on the head unit's screen. Connectivity is achieved by simply plugging the iPod into a port via a connector cable, providing outstanding sound quality through the car's stereo system and constant power to the iPod. Music is controlled through the head unit and steering wheel audio controls. A standard mini-jack port also allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the tC's Pioneer speakers.

Since many Scion customers add in-car entertainment systems to their vehicle, the tC comes standard with rear head unit outputs allowing for the addition of external amps to boost power to the front and rear speakers, and subwoofers.

The tC's optional premium audio system adds one more feature to the standard head unit, the ability to download "skins" to play on the LCD faceplate. Customers can download images, four-second video clips and eight-second movies from Pioneer's website. In addition, Pioneer software allows customers to burn their own images and movies onto a CD and upload them onto the available head unit.

Both the standard and premium head units retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing (SSP) where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility, a user-customizable welcome screen, MP3 and WMA capability, Automatic Sound Leveling (ASL) and Sound Retouch Technology (SRT), which provides clearer CD sound quality. Both systems will also feature six speakers: two tweeters and speakers in each door panel.

Advanced Safety
Like all 2008 Scions, the tC comes standard with front dual stage airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, tire pressure monitor system, headrests, three-point seatbelts in all five seating positions and a first aid kit. The tC also features a driver's knee airbag.

Sporty Package
The tC's roominess and ride comfort can be attributed to its 106.3-inch wheelbase and 69.1-inch wide stance. In addition the tC has four-wheel independent suspension, strut-type front suspension and double-wishbone rear suspension, for responsive handling.

A four-wheel disc brake system is standard on the tC. A two-step brake booster increases power assist in proportion to pedal force to provide precise pedal feel. The tC comes equipped with standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking during severe braking maneuvers, and EBD monitors differences in front- and rear-wheel speeds and distributes optimal braking force to all four wheels.

Fun-To-Drive Performance
The tC is powered by a 2.4-liter double overhead-cam four cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). This CARB-certified Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) produces 161 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162-lb.ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The tC features a five-speed manual transmission or an available electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission.

Fully Equipped
All Scion models come well-equipped in a "mono spec" trim. The tC offers full standard equipment so the customer only needs to choose between manual or automatic transmissions and vehicle color.

Standard features include the panorama glass power moonroof (a first in this segment), air conditioning, cruise control, exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal lights, power door locks and mirrors, rear cargo tonneau cover, auto up/down power windows with jam protection, in-key remote keyless entry, rolling-code engine immobilizer security system, auto-off headlamps, electronic hatch release, chrome-plated exhaust tip and a unique audio unit cover.

All Scion models come with complimentary factory-recommended maintenance services for the first 5,000 mile and 10,000 mile intervals, to be performed by an authorized Scion or Toyota dealership.

The standard tC model is available in a choice of seven colors: Flint Mica, Super White, Black Sand Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Sizzling Crimson Mica, Wave Line Pearl and Nautical Blue Metallic. Exterior colors are complemented by a high-quality dark charcoal fabric interior in the standard tC model.

Blank Canvas
Toyota Racing Development (TRD) offers many parts to enhance tC performance, including performance suspension kits, a high-performance clutch, quick shifter, leather-wrapped shift knob and sequential shift light kit.

It's easy for customers to take the tC to the next level with Scion Genuine Accessories. Customers can change the tC's look with the approximately 40 available accessories including EMX Super seven-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels with Pirelli PZero Nero P255/40Z R18 all-season tires, polished stainless steel muffler, color-keyed ground effects and a rear lip spoiler. The Optomize accessory program, available at Scion dealers, also offers customers the convenience of cutting-edge, well-known name-brand accessories.

For those who really want to express their creativity, Scion also offers the tC Spec Package model aimed at the tuner segment with a lower price point than the standard model. Since wheel changes are so popular in the tuner community, the tC Spec Package model comes standard with steel wheels, P205/55 R16 tires and seven-spoke wheel covers. The tC Spec Package also features a fixed glass panorama roof, unique upholstery, a urethane steering wheel, and a grille and headlight garnish with special treatment. The color pallet for this model includes Super White, Flint Mica, Black Sand Pearl and Classic Silver metallic, compared to the standard model's seven colors.

Comfort and Class
A Scion would not be complete without unexpected utility and content for its class. The tC offers this and more with its unique attention to detail.

The tC's comfortable front sport bucket seats feature driver's side height and thigh support adjustments, along with a walk-in function with memory for both the seat and backrest. The push of a convenient lever at the top of the seat back yields a wide step-in space for easy access to the rear seats.

The metal-tone center console features a genuine cast-aluminum temperature control dial flanked by soft-touch electronic buttons and an LCD display showing exterior temperature, seven fan speeds and a clock. Shutter-type flush-closing dash vents complement the center console's waterfall design.

The dash and upper door panels are covered with unique trim that was inspired by the texture of Japanese paper, while the front-passenger airbag is seamlessly integrated into the dash. Dampers are used for the interior moving parts and ensure smooth operation. The tC's low NVH levels are maintained with extensive use of sound absorption materials.

The tC's rear seats deliver utility and comfort. The rear can recline to 45 degrees and can be adjusted into 10 different positions. The 60/40-split rear seats fold forward for a nearly flat cargo floor, and when both are folded flat provide more than 8.5 feet of length for cargo. Standard tie down hooks in the rear seat and cargo areas provided added convenience.

Storage is abundant in the tC with four roomy map pockets, bag hooks in side panels, numerous CD, bottle, cup and cell phone holders, and a two-tiered fabric-covered center console. Additional storage can be found under the right rear cargo area for securing valuables.

Generous Warranty
All Scion models are backed by a 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty that applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation.

Related:
Chicago Auto Show: Scion's New Angry Washing Machine, the 2008 xB, Debuts; Chicago Auto Show: Scion xD [internal]

Scion also rolled out its xA replacement, the xD — a five-door subcompact based on the Toyota Yaris. Did we mention it's small? Anyway, the xD is more squared off than the Yaris, one of which was recently mistaken for a Hostess Sno-Ball, and subsequently eaten by a group of third graders in Spokane, Washington. – Mike Spinelli

Press Release:

Scion Stages World Premier Of All-New 2008 xD At 2007 Chicago Auto Show

February 8, 2007 - Chicago - Scion, from Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., revealed the all-new 2008 xD five-door subcompact at a press conference today at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show.

"The xD is a clever new take on the five-door urban subcompact, with style and flair to match its efficiency and utility," said Mark Templin, Scion vice president. "The xD's aggressive styling is wrapped in a small, agile package, while its interior offers impressive details and a spacious cabin."

New Scion Style
The xD's futuristic exterior characterizes it as a Scion with its simple surfaces and sharp lines that flow from front to rear. Its urban personality is communicated by its wide stance, thick muscular body, accentuated wheel flares and large tires. Other styling cues that set the xD apart include a long and narrow back window, and the Scion family traits-horizontal headlamps, an integrated rectangular lower and upper grille, and turn signals built into the side mirrors.

Good Handling
Engineers designed the xD with a short, wide frame in mind for better handling and comfort. In addition, the xD features an L-arm type MacPherson strut in the front and torsion beam suspension in the rear for increased stability and a pleasing ride.

The xD's powerful stance sits on 16-inch steel wheels and 195/60 R16 tires. Customers will be able to choose from three all-new standard wheel covers which will also be shared with the all-new xB. The xD features front ventilated disc and rear drum brakes.

Clean and Modern Interior
Designers focused on a clean, comfortable and futuristic interior style. The simple dash features an instrument panel located directly in front of the driver while the center cluster-digital clock and HVAC and audio controls-flows down the center. The xD's unique, radar-like speedometer and tachometer have been consolidated into one circular gauge centered on the instrument panel. Indicator lamps, LCD fuel gauge and odometer flank the centralized gauge.

The xD features front bucket seats and 60/40 fold flat rear seats for a level cargo space. The rear seats were designed for comfort and utility as they can slide forward and back up to six inches for additional leg room and cargo area. In addition, they can recline ten degrees and be adjusted into five different positions.

Storage and cargo space is aplenty in the xD. Up front, the xD has a storage tray located beneath the steering wheel, a small box in the front of the center console for holding portable music players or cell phones, an upper and lower glove box, and driver's side change box. A hidden storage space is located below the rear cargo area.

Upgraded Audio System
The xD's standard 160-watt maximum output Pioneer audio system is focused on youth lifestyle as it features iPod connectivity and a mini-jack port located beneath the HVAC controls for easy access. This standard head unit integrates track, artist and album information from the iPod into a one-line display on the head unit's screen. Connectivity is achieved by simply plugging the iPod into a port via a connector cable, providing outstanding sound quality through the car's stereo system and constant power to the iPod. Music is controlled through the head unit and the steering wheel audio control buttons. The mini-jack port allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the xD's Pioneer speakers. Since many Scion customers add in-car entertainment systems to their vehicle, the xD will come standard with rear head unit outputs allowing for the addition of external amps to boost power to the front and rear speakers, and subwoofers. All head unit features remain unchanged if this feature is used.

The xD's optional premium audio system adds one more feature to the standard head unit, the ability to download "skins" to play on the LCD faceplate. Customers can download images, four-second video clips and eight-second movies from Pioneer's website. In addition, Pioneer software allows customers to burn their own images and movies onto a CD and upload them onto the available head unit.

Both the standard and premium head units retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing (SSP) where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility, a user-customizable welcome screen, MP3 and WMA capability, Automatic Sound Leveling (ASL) and Sound Retouch Technology (SRT), which provides clearer CD sound quality. Both systems will also feature six speakers: two tweeters and speakers in each door panel.

Driving Performance
The xD is powered by the lively 1.8 L four-cylinder engine with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) that puts out 128 horsepower. Customers have the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. This 2ZR-FE engine features a roller rocker system and light weight piston for better fuel economy and a piston cooling oil jet for better efficiency.

Standard Features
The xD comes mono spec like all Scion vehicles. Customers need to choose exterior color and transmission type, while the only factory option is Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC). The xD comes with generous and upscale standard features including power steering, windows, door locks and mirrors; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA); driver and front passenger dual stage airbags; front seat-mounted side airbags; front and rear side curtain airbags; first-aid kit; a tire pressure monitor system and tilt steering wheel with audio controls.

All Scion models come with complimentary factory-recommended maintenance services at the first 5,000 mile and 10,000 mile intervals, to be performed by an authorized Scion or Toyota dealership.

Color Palette
The xD will have high-quality dark charcoal interior fabric and will be available in six exterior colors, Super White, Silver Streak Mica, Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic and Nautical Blue Metallic.

Warranty
All Scion models feature a 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty that applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items.

Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation.

2008 SCION xD PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

DIMENSIONS (inches)

Overall length: 154.7
Overall width: 67.9
Overall height: 60.0
Wheelbase: 96.9

ENGINE

Type: 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve EFI with VVT-i
Bore and Stroke: 3.17 x 3.48 inches
Displacement: 1,798 cc
Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
Horsepower: 128 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 125 lb.-ft. @ 4,400 rpm

TIRES AND WHEELS

Wheel Size: 16 x 6 inches
Tire Size: 195/60 R16

Related:
Exclusive! Scion xD and xB Break Out From Their Embargo Box [internal]

Scion launched its latest angry washing machine (thanks, Bob Lutz), which the company's execs would prefer to call "sinister." It's the new Scion xB, and in addition to getting a complete redesign, it's gotten more power by way of the tC's 2.4-liter four — that's 158 horsepower, 55 more than the current model. Transmission choices are five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic with sequential shifting, which as the press release reads is a first for automatic four-speeds in the Scion or Toyota line-up. It also gets full iPod connectivity via its Pioneer head unit. It also gets a new interior design, which we found out after elbowing a few elderly gents from midwestern dailies to get a seat inside. (See above) – Mike Spinelli

PRESS RELEASE:

Scion Launches All-New 2008 xB At 2007 Chicago Auto Show

Tire Size: P205/55 R16

Related:
Exclusive! Scion xD and xB Break Out From Their Embargo Box

No idea where they got it from or how they got it Seems Car and Driver is actually the ones who broke the embargo, but since GM Inside News broke it earlier this AM, we've got it here — the new Scion xD, pictured above, and the Scion xB, pictured below the jump. Here's what the folks over at GMIN have to say:

"More significant, however, is xB's all-new compact-car platform, which represents a move away from the xD—the replacement for the previous xB's platformmate, the xA—which has transitioned to the Yaris' subcompact architecture. As such, the all-new xB offers more space inside for guitars, amps, and retro-punk hairdos. Gone are the moronic center-mounted gauges, replaced by a more stylish, more conventional dashboard arrangement.

The news gets even better under the hood, where a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (shared with the tC) making 158 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque replaces the wimpy 103-hp 1.5-liter four-pot of xB version 1.0. Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions deliver the newfound power to the front wheels, the latter with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters."

Chicago: Scion xB & xD [GM Inside News]

Related:
Scion to Launch Two New Models in '07, Drop xA, xB [internal]

Toyota Reports 2006 and December Sales 01/03/2007 Torrance, CA

January 3, 2007 - Torrance, CA - With eleven consecutive years of record-breaking sales, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported total best-ever year-end sales of 2,542,524 vehicles, up 12.9 percent over 2005.

"2006 was a respectable year for the industry if you consider the strain of erratic fuel prices and a housing bubble on an industry weaning itself from incentives," said TMS Executive Vice President Jim Lentz.

Camry became the best-selling car in America for the fifth consecutive year and the ninth time in the past decade. Lexus retained its crown as the best-selling luxury brand in America for the seventh consecutive year, selling a total of 322,434 units in 2006, up 6.8 percent over 2005. With overall sales of 173,034, Scion was a significant contributor to the record sales year.

TMS reported best-ever overall sales month results of 228,322, an increase of 16.6 percent over the same period last year.

Toyota Division
Toyota Division recorded best-ever year-end sales of 2,220,090 vehicles, up 13.8 percent. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever year-end sales of 1,275,119, up 12.4 percent over last year. Passenger car sales were led by Camry, which posted year-end sales of 448,445, an increase of 4.2 percent. Corolla posted year-end sales of 387,388, an increase of 13.9 percent. The all-new Yaris subcompact, which went on sale in March, posted year-end sales totaling 70,308. The Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan posted best-ever December sales of 9,291, an increase of 6.9 percent over the year-ago month. Year-end Prius sales reached 106,971 units.

Toyota Division recorded all-time best-ever year-end light truck sales of 944,971, an increase of 15.7 percent. Toyota Division light trucks also reported all-time best-ever December sales of 88,370, up 15.9 percent over the same period last year. Light truck sales were led by Sienna with December sales of 16,090, up 10.5 percent over the same period last year. The RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) reported year-end sales of 152,047, up 116.3 percent over the same period last year. The all-new FJ Cruiser, which went on sale in March, reported year-end sales of 56,225 units. The Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported sales of 2,354 in December. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined December sales of 11,700, up 7.4 percent over the same period last year.

Contributing to the light-truck sales record was the Tacoma pickup truck with December sales of 15,857, up 7.3 percent. Year-end Tacoma sales were 178,351, up 6 percent over 2005.

Scion reported December sales of 10,326 units. The Scion xB urban utility vehicle recorded December sales of 3,330 units with year-end sales totaling 61,306, an increase of 13.8 percent over 2005. The tC sports coupe reported December sales of 4,996 units with year-end sales reaching 79,125 units, an increase of 6.7 percent over 2005.

Lexus Division
Lexus reported best-ever total year-end sales of 322,434, up 6.8 percent over last year, and all-time best-ever overall sales month of 37,235 units, up 9.9 percent over the year-ago month. It was the second consecutive year Lexus posted sales above 300,000 units.

Sales of Lexus passenger cars achieved best-ever year-end results of 183,037 units, an increase of 21.4 percent. Lexus passenger car sales reported best-ever overall sales month results of 20,913 units, an increase of 21.6 percent over the year-ago month. For the month, passenger car sales were led by the ES 350 luxury sedan with best-ever December sales of 8,736 units, up 34 percent. The ES 350 luxury sedan reported best-ever year-end sales of 75,987 units, up 12.8 percent. The IS 250 and IS 350 luxury sport sedans recorded combined best-ever December sales of 5,538 units and combined best-ever year-end sales of 54,267 units, an increase of 244.8 percent. The all-new LS 460 premium luxury sedan reported December sales of 3,865, an increase of 73 percent, and year-end sales of 19,546 units.

Lexus Division light trucks reported December sales of 16,322 units and year-end sales of 139,397 units. The RX 350 and RX 400h enjoyed combined best-ever December sales of 12,779 units and year-end sales of 108,348 units. The RX 400h luxury hybrid SUV reported sales of 1,981 units for the month.

TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 191,742 units. In December, hybrids sales posted 17,883 units.

There were 306 selling days in 2006, as compared to 307 selling days in 2005. There were 26 selling days this month, as compared to 27 selling days last December.

Related:
Toyota Wants To Take It In The Ear Just Like US Automakers; Toyota-Zilla Releases 2007 Global Sales Projection, Lays Waste To GM [internal]

Ed Begley Jr. to the courtesy phone. Those masters of automotive electronica at AC Propulsion, the folks who brought you the TZero EV sportster, now offer something a bit more practical. Practically square, that is — the eBox. Based on the Scion xB (gee, really?), the eBox is powered by a 12-kw AC induction motor plugged into a lithium-ion battery pack, giving it a range of 140-180 miles on a charge. Performance is surprisingly spry; the company says it can go from zero to 60 in around seven seconds, nearly three seconds quicker than a stock xB. But like George Clooney's Tango, which also uses AC's propulsion system, the eBox will set the Hollywood enviro-elite back around $80,000, which includes the cost of the donor car. Options like leather upholstery, alloy wheels, nav system, and custom paint job will send the meters spinning. – Mike Spinelli

AC Propulsions makes a faster xB—by throwing away the engine. [The Car Connection]

Related:

Wow, what a great Idea. A small, economical car, whose block-like shape is both a symbol of its quirk and the reason for its utility. The kids will totally eat it for breakfast. Or maybe it'll be 55-year-old men. Eh, who cares, it'll sell like hotcakes. Kudos, Great Wall motors of China. – Mike Spinelli

Related:
Scion's New xB Could Be Bigger, US Only [internal]

Ok, so those are zeros, not letters "O" in the X-SRV P001's name, but this custom Hummer H2 is no less stinky by our sensory perceptions. The work of X-Concept Motorsports and Casborn design, the X-SRV is an attempt to combine the look of a military vehicle with the that of a 1930's era Cadillac and Duesenberg. All we can say is that it more closely resembles a slot machine crossed up with a Sony boombox. Either way, it's a monstrosity of scatological proportion. [Gallery] – Mike Spinelli

Related:
The New Toyota bB: Already Custom [internal]

"The seat-mounted side airbag and side curtain airbags on certain tCs may inadvertently deploy if the door for that side of the vehicle is closed very forcefully while the tC's ignition is in the "ON" position or within 90 seconds of turning the ignition key from the "ON" position to the "OFF" position. There have been 17 cases of this condition reported."

TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 24, 2006 - Scion, from Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., will launch a voluntary Safety Recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) involving approximately 30,000 tC sports coupes from the 2005 and 2006 model year. The affected tC sports coupes were produced from March 2004 to early March 2006. There have been no accidents, deaths or injuries reported related to this condition. The Scion tC is only sold in the U.S. market.

The seat-mounted side airbag and side curtain airbags on certain tCs may inadvertently deploy if the door for that side of the vehicle is closed very forcefully while the tC's ignition is in the "ON" position or within 90 seconds of turning the ignition key from the "ON" position to the "OFF" position. There have been 17 cases of this condition reported.

Scion will mail owners of the involved vehicles a Safety Recall notification via first class mail early next month. Owners are requested to contact their local Scion dealer for replacement of the driver and passenger side airbag sensors upon receiving their notification. Replacement will be done at no charge to the owners of the vehicle.

Customers with questions or concerns should contact the Scion Customer Experience Center at 1-866-707-2466.

Related:
Toyota Gets A Rear End NHTSA Probe; Toyota Initiates Massive Recall [internal]

Scion xB is totally the Mac OSX of boxy econo, er, boxes. ToMoCo's revealed the newest in its Release Series, the xB R.S. 4.0, which features a special, color-shift paint dubbed "Maziora Torched Penny" after an ancient Aztec money-laundering scheme. The model gets color-keyed taillights, rear spoiler and Modellista speed grille; rear bumper protector; and special "release series" wheel covers. Inside, there are the badged floor mats, multicolor under-dash lighting and cup-holder kit. Manual-transmission models get a color-keyed Razo shift knob. Only 2,500 units of the xB Release Series 4.0 will be built, each sporting its own individually numbered brushed stainless steel badge — all for an MSRP of $1,930 over the base price of automatic-transmission xBs, and $1,980 for manual models. They'll be in showrooms next month, heads or tails. [Gallery] – Mike Spinelli

Related:
Absolutely Blue?: Scion to Release Limited-Edition tC 2.0 in New York [internal]

Toyota announced this week that the square xB and the, er, turnip-shaped xA will be history after this year. The now-iconic xB and less-so xA will meet their production doom in December, but they'll be replaced in mid-2007 by two, 2008 models yet to be announced. According to insiders, one will look vaguely like a slice of cantelope, the other will be in the shape of an isosceles trapezoid.

Related:
The Toyota Scion's Got Personality; We're Relatively Anti-Social [internal]

Top 10 Most Appealing Vehicles
(according to JD Power & Associates)

1. 2006 Porsche Cayman
2. 2006 BMW 7 Series
3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
4. 2006 Lexus IS 250/IS 350
5. 2006 Infiniti QX56
6. 2006 Nissan Armada
7. 2006 Scion tC
8. 2006 Mini Cooper
9. 2006 Lexus GX 470
10. 2006 Infiniti M-Series

Most Appealing Vehicles [ForbesAuto.com]

Related:
ForbesAutos On the Sopranos' Coolest Cars [internal]