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Are Scions Still Made? The Truth About 2024+ Models

By Marcus Reyes 196 Views
do they still make scions
Are Scions Still Made? The Truth About 2024+ Models

The question "do they still make Scions" arises from a specific and understandable place. For years, the brand was a bold experiment by Toyota, designed to capture the energy of younger buyers with stylish, affordable cars. When the announcement came in 2016 that the division would be dissolved, it left a gap in the market and a lot of questions. The short answer is no, Scion as a distinct brand no longer exists, but its influence lives on in the vehicles and principles that followed.

The Official End of the Scion Era

To understand the current landscape, you have to look back at the decision to discontinue the brand. In February 2016, Toyota made the official announcement that it would be shutting down the Scion label. The reasoning was largely based on market overlap and brand confusion; the quirky cars, heavily modified by the division, were starting to overlap with Toyota’s own core models like the Corolla and Yaris. The final model year for new Scions was 2016, meaning the specific marketing, badges, and dealer experience came to a definitive close.

What Happened to the Models?

While the division closed, the cars themselves remained desirable and relevant. The final Scion models produced were the FR-S (a Toyota 86 twin), the iA (a Mazda2-based sedan), and the tC (a compact coupe). These vehicles are now simply classified as Toyota or Mazda models, depending on their engineering. For example, the FR-S is now the Toyota GR86, continuing the sporty legacy with enhanced performance and modern technology under the Toyota badge.

How the Legacy Lives On

The spirit of Scion was not just about the badged vehicles, but the attitude. The brand championed individuality, offering "Gone in 60" customization packages that allowed buyers to choose specific colors and features directly from the factory. This philosophy of personalization has been absorbed by Toyota’s performance division, GR (Gazoo Racing). Models like the GR Yaris and the revived Corolla Levin carry the torch for compact, driver-focused cars that offer a connection to the original Scion intent.

Scion tC: Evolved into the Toyota Corolla iM and now the GR Corolla.

Scion FR-S: Now the Toyota GR86, a collaboration with Subaru.

Scion xD: Replaced indirectly by the C-HR and the RAV4 Compact.

Scion iA: Became the Mazda3-based Toyota Yaris Liftback.

Market Impact and Collector Interest p> Since the dissolution, the value of the original Scion models has seen a notable shift. While not yet reaching classic status across the board, certain vehicles have become sought-after. The FR-S, in particular, has maintained strong interest due to its fun driving dynamics and aftermarket potential. The tC, once a practical and reliable commuter car, is now fetching higher prices in the used market as enthusiasts recognize its solid build and tunability. For the average buyer asking "do they still make Scions," the reality is that the new car market is closed. You cannot walk into a dealer and order a new vehicle with the Scion logo. However, the market for used Scions is thriving. These cars offer a blend of reliability, style, and character that is hard to find elsewhere. They represent a specific moment in automotive history where a big manufacturer took a risk to appeal to a niche audience. The Verdict for Modern Buyers

Since the dissolution, the value of the original Scion models has seen a notable shift. While not yet reaching classic status across the board, certain vehicles have become sought-after. The FR-S, in particular, has maintained strong interest due to its fun driving dynamics and aftermarket potential. The tC, once a practical and reliable commuter car, is now fetching higher prices in the used market as enthusiasts recognize its solid build and tunability.

For the average buyer asking "do they still make Scions," the reality is that the new car market is closed. You cannot walk into a dealer and order a new vehicle with the Scion logo. However, the market for used Scions is thriving. These cars offer a blend of reliability, style, and character that is hard to find elsewhere. They represent a specific moment in automotive history where a big manufacturer took a risk to appeal to a niche audience.

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Written by Marcus Reyes

Marcus Reyes is a Senior Editor with 15 years of experience investigating complex global narratives. He brings razor-sharp analysis and unapologetic perspective to every story.