SCION to hit the streets in Canada

Toyota Canada Inc. to roll out youthful lifestyle brand in 2010

The SCION is coming to Canada. Starting in 2010, the streetwise automotive brand that forges a close fit between "car" and "community" will be available at selected dealers in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver, with launches in other centres at a later date.

"Young Canadians have been telling us they want SCION, and now their desire is within reach," explains Larry Hutchinson, Director of Toyota Canada Inc. "SCION is an authentic brand, created to mesh with youthful tastes and sensibilities, and we’re excited to expand our presence in Canada with new vehicles that offer a unique blend of flexibility, personalization, affordability and fuel efficiency. The time is right to bring SCION culture to Canada."

Launched in the U.S. in 2003, SCION became an instant hit, helping attract new customers to the Toyota family. Customers were treated to a unique purchase experience, to browse, investigate, research or just discover SCION entirely at their own pace through grassroots events and a highly-interactive and a constantly evolving web site. They found a unique line-up of vehicles that are high in personal expression – lifestyle products on wheels, offered as well-equipped models with huge opportunities for personalization through aftermarket-style original equipment accessories.

SCION comes to Canada with three engaging and youthful vehicles:

• The SCION tC sport coupe, combining style and fun in a five-seater hatchback,

• The SCION xD, blending personality in a way-cool-factor in a subcompact five-door hatchback;

• The SCION xB compact five-door hatchback, delivering astounding spaciousness wrapped in a cubic cladding that’s game for any urban adventure.

Upgrades and accessories can be added to any SCION a la carte, and range from unique wheels, shift knobs and sport pedals to satellite radio systems and a broad selection of TRD (Toyota Racing Development) performance enhancements. Every SCION’s safety system currently includes front dual-stage airbags, front seat mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, three-point lap and shoulder belts for all occupants.

"SCION is a unique brand, yet still a member of the Toyota family so it benefits from the same high standards as our Toyota and Lexus lines," says Larry Hutchinson. "As such, SCION will be an important avenue through which we reach new drivers and give them the opportunity to experience, first-hand, Toyota’s reputation for quality, fuel efficiency, safety and value."