2011 Scion iQ New Model Revealed in New York

 2011 Scion iQ New Model Revealed in New York
2011 Scion iQ 01.04.2010

The Scion iQ was formally introduced in New York yesterday.  Toyota's alternative brand will sell the car in the U.S beginning in the first quarter of 2011.

Scion is badging the car as a "premium micro-subcompact," that will come standard with a six-speaker sound system with a USB port.  The multifunction steering wheel is designed to keep the driver's hands on the wheel, and to keep the car safe the iQ has 10 airbags standard.  Other features that come standard include anti-lock brakes, brake assist, brake distribution, stability control, and traction control.

The 3+1 car features a MacPherson strut front, torsion beam rear suspension.  The urban cruiser uses a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine that saves on gas, but may not be have enough power for American highways.  Then again, the 120.1-inch three-door is meant for urban environments.

It is not known exactly what will be different about this car from the Toyota iQ, but as it is being sold as a Scion it will likely have loads of available options for customization.  As such, Scion VP Jack Hollis said, "Scion prides itself on being an innovative brand with a lineup of iconic vehicles that set automotive trends."

"The iQ will define the premium micro-subcompact segment as the choice for new urbanites who want clever transportation without a sacrifice in style or new features."

We like the pearl white color, but we're still not sure how well the car will sell in the States.  Let us know what you think in the comments below.


Scion Unveils a New Dimension at the New York Auto Show with All-New 2011 iQ and tC Production Models

NEW YORK (March 31, 2010) - A New Dimension of Scion was unveiled today with two new production vehicles - the all-new 2011 iQ premium micro-subcompact and the second-generation 2011 tC sports coupe - at the New York International Auto Show. The tC is scheduled to arrive in dealerships later this fall, while the iQ will go on sale in early 2011.

"Scion prides itself on being an innovative brand with a lineup of iconic vehicles that set automotive trends," said Jack Hollis, vice president of Scion. "The iQ will define the premium micro-subcompact segment as the choice for new urbanites who want clever transportation without a sacrifice in style or new features."

"The all-new tC features styling that is both refined and aggressive, appealing to a sports coupe owner who wants to make a bold statement. The tC has had the youngest median age buyer in the industry, and with more power, superior driving dynamics, and increased fuel efficiency, that should remain the case with the new tC as well."

iQ Defines Premium Micro-Subcompact
Meeting the needs of a new trendsetting generation of urban drivers, the iQ succeeds at taking big ideas and concentrating them into a small package. Made possible by intelligent and functional packaging, the iQ is a small car that offers the functionality and comfort that drivers expect from a car twice its size.

The 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 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 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 iQ is equipped with a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor that reduces rear overhang.

The 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 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 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 iQ's engine is combined with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that helps deliver smooth acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency. The 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 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.

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 9TNine 9TNine
Why does a large country like the USA need a tiny little car like this? (Aside from imposing torture on te back seat passenger + half)
April 1, 2010 10:11 am
 EDavis EDavis
"Why does a large country like the USA need a tiny little car like this?" The U.S. as a country doesn't need this car, but American cities do. "(Aside from imposing torture on te back seat passenger + half)" Exactly. We've got to make up for the closing of Guantanamo Bay somehow.
April 1, 2010 12:47 pm
 coopergt coopergt
A large country like the USA needs these, as too many people sit alone in their huge trucks burning wasteful petrol.
April 1, 2010 10:20 am
 o3n1k o3n1k
public transportation needs to be drastically improved instead.
April 1, 2010 4:09 pm
 Siawa Siawa
Actually small cars became popular couple of years back when prices of gasoline went sky high. But yes, honestly it's kinda scary passing a huge track on highway in these small cars. I prefer my regular sized sedans.
April 1, 2010 10:29 am
 EDavis EDavis
"But yes, honestly it's kinda scary passing a huge track on highway in these small cars" I'm guessing you never passed one on a motorcycle while running your finger up the side of the trailer.
April 1, 2010 1:45 pm
 Siawa Siawa
I actually happen to own a GSXR. I naturally remember the Lord whenever I pass a track. Ha.
April 1, 2010 2:53 pm
 o3n1k o3n1k
i hope all drivers wuld look twice to watch for the riders.
April 1, 2010 4:12 pm
 o3n1k o3n1k
BAAAMMMM!!! that car will look like a crushed aluminum can! and with 1.3 liter, u prolly have to floor that gas pedal to get into the freeway to merge with traffic. i drive a tC myself but i wuld not opt for less than 1.8 liter.
April 1, 2010 12:38 pm
 Mikeado Mikeado
Scion being a branch of Toyota, I'd imagine it does that for you.
April 2, 2010 1:58 pm
 otakki otakki
Yes, change a few panels and, viola, you have an Aston Martin.
April 1, 2010 1:02 pm
 Mikeado Mikeado
Ew. I prefer the Toyota bumpers.
April 2, 2010 1:58 pm