When enthusiasts ask, do they still make Scions, the answer requires some historical context. For years, Scion was Toyota’s experimental division, designed to sell quirky, affordable cars to younger buyers. The brand cultivated a loyal following through innovative marketing and customizable options. However, the division was officially dissolved in August 2016, and its models were seamlessly absorbed into the Toyota and Lexus lineups.
The End of an Era: Why Scion Discontinued
The question do they still make Scions is closely tied to the brand’s unique market strategy. Scion succeeded by offering bold styling and dealer flexibility, but this very flexibility created inconsistency. As Toyota’s global strategy shifted toward consolidation, maintaining a separate division became redundant. The decision to retire the badge was driven by the need to streamline operations and reduce overlapping model segments within the parent company.
Models That Defined a Generation
Despite the brand’s closure, the legacy of Scion lives on through its iconic vehicles. The tC compact coupe remains a staple in the tuner community due to its rear-wheel-drive platform and aftermarket potential. The xB, with its boxy "Kei truck" design, offered unparalleled interior utility and became a favorite among urban dwellers. Meanwhile, the FR-S (co-developed with Subaru) delivered an engaging driving experience that enthusiasts still seek out today.
Current Market Availability and Buyer Options
So, do they still make Scions if you walk into a dealer today? The answer is no, but the cars are very much alive on the used market. Because the brand was retired, current inventory consists solely of pre-owned vehicles. Buyers can find certified pre-owned examples of the tC, xB, and FR-S, or they can search the aftermarket for brand-new builds based on these platforms.
Toyota tC: Now positioned as the Toyota 86/GR86, the sporty coupe continues with enhanced performance.
Toyota Corolla iM: The successor to the xB, offering a similar footprint with updated technology.
Lexus UX: Absorbs the crossover essence of the XA, providing a premium take on the compact SUV.
Aftermarket Support and Community
One of the greatest indicators of a brand’s endurance is the strength of its community. The Scion community remains robust, with active forums and clubs dedicated to modification and preservation. The FR-S, in particular, has fostered a massive support network for parts and tuning, ensuring that owners can easily enhance their driving experience. This ongoing support effectively answers the question of availability with a resounding yes for the vehicles themselves.
Value and Reliability Considerations
For those evaluating the do they still make Scions dilemma from an investment perspective, the focus has shifted to value retention. Scion vehicles were known for their reliability and low cost of ownership, traits inherited by their Toyota siblings. The FR-S, for example, holds its value well due to its sporty image and engaging dynamics. This makes used models a smart purchase for drivers who want fun without the luxury brand price tag.
The Verdict on Legacy
While the badge is gone, the spirit of Scion survives in the form of refined successors. Toyota recognized the cultural impact of the division and ensured that the best ideas were not discarded. The FR-S platform evolved, the xB philosophy lives on in the Corolla iM, and the brand’s ethos of individuality is now expressed through Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division. Therefore, the story of Scion is not one of extinction, but of transformation.
