Scion iQ, 2011

 

 

Scion iQ, 2011

The Scion iQ succeeds at taking big ideas and concentrating them into a small package. Made possible by intelligent and functional packaging, the Scion iQ is a small car that offers the functionality and comfort that drivers expect from a car twice its size.

The Scion iQ's profile, defined by a strong and high beltline, glides from the large, stout headlamps, up the A-pillar, across the roof and wraps around the rear, emphasizing the Scion iQ's geometric shape. Side mirrors with integrated turn signals accent the clean design.

The rear emphasizes the vehicle's modern style. Trapezoidal lines run toward the wheels, from the hatch to the bumper's rear diffuser-like accent, creating a substantial presence. With a 78.7-inch wheelbase and a unique suspension design - consisting of MacPherson struts up front, and a torsion beam rear suspension - the three-door hatchback can deftly maneuver through city traffic. In addition, its overall length of only 120.1-inches, width of 66.1-inches, and short front and rear overhangs create a confident stance that still allows the Scion iQ to fit into virtually any urban parking scenario.

Engineering innovations like a compact air-conditioning unit, inverted front-mounted differential, and electronic power-steering system with compact steering column, all amount to significant decreases in front-end length. In addition, the Scion iQ is equipped with a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor that reduces rear overhang.

The Scion iQ's functional "3+1" seating equates to the world's smallest four-passenger vehicle. With the driver's and front-passenger's seats being slightly off set, this innovative seating arrangement allows for one adult behind the front passenger and a child, small package, or pet behind the driver. A first for Scion, extra-slim front seat backs are utilized to provide rear passengers with ample legroom. The rear seats are extremely versatile, featuring a 50/50 split and the ability to fold flat, creating enough storage to accommodate up to two golf bags.

The Scion iQ is small in size but large on safety. Active safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Traction Control (TRAC).

The Scion iQ will come standard with 10 SRS airbags, including the world's first rear-window curtain airbag. Other airbags include driver- and front-passenger airbags; driver- and front-passenger seat-mounted side airbags; side curtain airbags; driver- and front-passenger knee airbags; and a Scion-first driver seat-cushion airbag.

The 2011 iQ is equipped with a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces over 90 horsepower and features the latest dual VVT-i, which allows it to be impressively efficient, providing a broader powerband yet requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions.

The Scion iQ's engine is combined with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that helps deliver smooth acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency. The Scion iQ will be rated as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II), and it is expected to achieve a combined fuel economy in the high 30s, comparable to similar vehicles that feature less passenger and cargo capacity.

The Scion iQ comes standard with a six-speaker audio system and is available with multiple audio head units for various degrees of audiophiles. All iQs will be outfitted with USB and auxiliary ports, allowing personal devices to be easily integrated into the car. Steering-wheel-mounted controls command the audio system to adjust volume and shuffle through music sources such as CD, AM/FM, auxiliary input, or a library from your iPod or other USB device.