What is it? The Scion brand originally launched at the New York auto show, and this year, Toyota's youth-targeting division rolled out a concept car that combines American vintage-car style and the cubic xB. The result looks like a 21st-century hot rod casted for "Japanese Graffitti," intended to appeal to young enthusiasts on both sides of the Pacific Ocean.
Drawing its name from Japanese word for box, the Hako concept has a long hood and high beltline. Large 18-inch wheels add to the hot-rod appearance. Interesting show car details include LED lighting, slender side mirrors, and a barcode-like pattern in the large, glass roof.
Inside, the front and rear bucket seats are covered in urethane and a rubbery material for easy cleaning. A track-ball-type control is used for the entertainment system, viewed through two monitors mounted on passenger side of the dash. Screens are also positioned in the doors and flanking the rear seats, projecting outside views as seen by A-pillar-mounted cameras.
What is new or notable: Scion is seeking to expand their line up. Officials are very open about considering a truck, roadster, and hybrid. While this may be a study in styling excess, it is best not to discount the production potential. Attending on public days, we saw Scion was very actively soliciting feedback from attendees.
Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z
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