Scion planning a pickup truck for 2010

Last month we reported that Scion’s management was considering adding new models to meet demand from rising numbers of budget-minded consumers. Scion corporate manager Steve Haag revealed that a new model was possible and now Popular Mechanics is reporting that a Scion-branded pickup truck is under serious consideration.

The vehicle is expected to be a small two-door unibody pickup with styling heavily influenced by the Scion Fuse concept car (pictured) that was unveiled at the New York Auto Show earlier in the year. Possibly picking up the name xP, the new junior pickup would be targeted at Gen-Y buyers with the hope that these same consumers will move on to other Toyota utilities when it comes time to upgrade.

Power will likely come from Scion's 2.4L four cylinder engine, which develops 161hp and 163 lb-ft. of torque, with drive sent to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.

Inside, there’ll be seating for two, a foot operated control for the rear tailgate and optional foldout speakers and drink coolers. The guys at PM are guessing it will have a starting price of $12,000, which undercuts Ford’s Ranger by close to $1,500.