The iQ is a micro hatch done right, and the first samples of this motoring revolution began arriving in Scion dealerships in January.
The iQ is a different kind of vehicle for today’s evolving motorists. The iQ features 3+1 seating with enough room for three adults and a child. The Scion brand’s new take on seating enables iQ owners to maximize their space without sacrifice. Some vehicles in this class struggle to offer seating for two plus a little room for storage; with the iQ, there is seating for three-plus, as well as 50/50 rear seats that fold flat to accommodate cargo. Scion engineers even managed to leave enough room for a full-sized adult in the second row, even when cargo is also present.
Power comes from a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 94 hp and 89 lb/ft of torque. The powertrain is among the smallest in the U.S. market, yet it is as powerful as some engines that are more than 10 percent larger. Scion was able to accomplish this feat by employing Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) technology, which helps the engine receive fuel in a more efficient manner. Speaking of efficiency, the Environmental Protection Agency estimates iQ fuel economy at up to 37 mpg on the highway. That’s the kind of fuel economy normally reserved for hybrid models, but with the iQ, these numbers come standard, without the added cost.
The iQ arrives at dealerships with an MSRP of only $15,265, and clever engineering is evident throughout the cabin. The iQ is only 120 inches long, or just over half the length of a large crossover. The iQ features amazing engineering advancements that help maximize interior space including a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor to reduce rear overhang. The iQ also employs a compact air conditioning unit that saves space for other components and at the same time, utilizes less energy.
Small vehicles are quickly becoming popular with U.S. buyers, and so is advanced safety technology. The iQ features the Toyota Star Safety SystemTM with technologies that include Anti-lock Brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control and Smart Stop Technology brake override. These technologies are proven to help prevent accidents.
Airbags have also been proven to be effective in protecting passengers, and the iQ comes standard with an amazing 11 bags. Particularly impressive is the fact that Scion managed to add industry-first driver and front passenger seat-cushion airbags, along with side-curtain, seat-mounted side airbags and more. Additional protection comes in the form of high-strength steel and crumple zones that divert crash energy away from the passenger compartment.
Safety is a major focus for Scion, and so is advanced technology. Scion buyers expect the latest technology the auto industry has to offer, and the iQ fulfills those demands with loads of standard equipment. The iQ features a 160-watt Pioneer stereo system that includes HD Radio, CD player and a USB port that interfaces with an MP3 player or smartphone. This audio system also features an organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen with a personalized welcome screen, iPod® connectivity, Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR) and a subwoofer RCA output. The iQ also comes with Bluetooth technology, which provides hands-free phone connections and streaming audio capability.
Scion also offers a 200-watt Pioneer Premium Audio system that adds a 5.8-inch LCD touch-screen display, plus iTunes® tagging, Pandora® Internet Radio connected through iPhone® and six RCA outputs for even more amplification. And that’s not all. Scion additionally offers a second 200-watt system to appeal to even more buyers. The SNS 200 system adds GPS navigation and a seven-inch LCD touch-screen.
Small vehicles typically lack luxury touches due to the added cost, but Scion again bucks the trend. Each model features a leather-covered steering wheel with a flat bottom for a racing feel. That wheel also comes with standard audio controls, giving the driver access to the Scion infotainment interfaces without ever needing to take your hands off the wheel.
For even more value, the iQ comes with the Scion Service Boost, a complimentary plan for routine factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, plus three years of 24-hour roadside assistance.
The Scion iQ impresses with amazing fuel economy, unprecedented safety advancements and the most advanced technology features in the class. The 2012 Scion iQ is officially here, and it can only be had at an authorized Scion dealer.
