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Scion takes the virtual route with next month's launch of the xB and new xD

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Khatir Soltani
Scion has today's young, dynamic car buyer squarely in its cross-hairs. The division of Toyota Motor Corp. is so different in presence and attitude than its parent company that it requires separate dealerships, sales staff and an entirely new approach to how vehicles are marketed and sold.

2006 Scion xB

When it comes to the media-savvy twenty-something professional, the same old tricks don't work to sell new cars- and they don't work to introduce them either.

That's why when the brand releases its second-generation xB and all-new xD at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show, things are going to be a bit unconventional.

Of course, there will be a press conference on February 8th which will be attended by men and women dressed in suits and ties. The conference will be simultaneously broadcasted to the Scion display area in the show. Nothing groundbreaking here.

The kicker is that alongside the "real-life" goings on, the company will stage a simultaneous conference in Scion City- a place which exists online in a virtual world called Second Life. Digital versions of the two all-new 2008 models will be available to members of Second Life for test drives and purchase, while encouraging them to learn about the brand and participate in lifestyle / owner events without ever leaving their computers.
photo:Toyota
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada