Scion: What's New for 2011

2011 Scion tC: Fully redesigned this year, the 2011 Scion tC gets a mildly revised exterior, upgraded interior appointments and a slightly larger engine with more power. Displacement on the tC's four-cylinder engine goes from 2.4 to 2.5 liters, and it's hooked to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. Although the displacement increase is small, the engine is now rated at 180 horsepower and 173 pound-feet of torque, sizable gains over the previous ratings of 161 hp and 162 lb-ft.

The suspension design remains the same as before, with struts up front and double wishbones in back. A set of 18-inch wheels comes standard with 225/45R18 91W Toyo Proxes all-season tires. There are stiffer springs and thicker antiroll bars than before, along with slightly more aggressive dampers and larger brake rotors for improved stopping power. An electrically assisted steering system is also used for improved mileage versus a traditional hydraulic setup.

On the inside, the Scion tC adds slightly more room for 2011 despite having the same wheelbase and overall length as the previous car. There's a standard panoramic sunroof, knee airbags and a choice of three audio systems.

2011 Scion xB: The 2011 Scion xB is largely a carryover model. There are a few minor updates to the exterior like revised front and rear bumpers, a new grille and redesigned headlights and taillights. The reverse lights were also moved to the taillight cluster. Two new colors have been added, Elusive Blue Metallic and Army Rock Metallic, while Hypnotic Teal has been discontinued. On the inside, all xBs get upgraded driver and front passenger seats, a new center console with a sliding armrest, a standard tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a revised instrument cluster.

2011 Scion xD: Like the xB, the 2011 Scion xD is a carryover model with a few minor upgrades. On the outside, the xD gets a new grille, a revised rear spoiler and a new color — Amazon Green Metallic. Mechanically, the xD is the same except for slightly more aggressive springs and shocks to improve handling. On the inside, metallic trim now highlights the instrument cluster, door panels and steering wheel.

2011 Scion iQ: An all-new model for the U.S. this year, the 2011 Scion iQ is a subcompact commuter car that has been sold in other markets as a Toyota for some time now. In the U.S. market, the four-passenger iQ will be powered by a 90-hp 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Projected EPA city fuel economy will be "in the high 30s," according to Scion.

Measuring just 120 inches long overall, the baby Scion is nearly 4 feet shorter than its boxy stablemate, the Scion xB, although it is still 14 inches longer than the two-place Smart Fortwo. Scion calls the interior layout a 3+1 setup, as there's only enough room for three adults and one small child. To help calm any fears that it's too small to be safe, Scion includes a long list of standard safety features that includes 10 airbags, stability and traction control, ABS with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution.