click the Toyota iQ for high res gallery

Ever since seeing the concept Toyota iQ last year and then the prototype version earlier this summer, we've been wondering how the asymmetrical configuration of the 3+1 seating arrangement and the iQ's overall small size would work for an average driver. We still don't know exactly how practical this tiny car (it's 9.8ft-long and has a 78.8in wheelbase) is, but the folks over at Edmunds say that the iQ is nothing if not spacious and solid to drive. Edmunds heard from Toyota that the European-spec iQ will be available with either a one-liter, five-speed manual or a turbocharged 1.4L diesel with a six speed manual (yes, please). Later, a 1.3L with variable valve timing version will be available with either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission.

We're getting more and more jealous that this mini-car is destined to be available in Japan and Europe but might take a pass on the U.S. There's been no official word from Toyota on U.S. sales, but we're willing to vote "aye" if we're ever asked if we want one.


[Source: Edmunds]

click the Toyota iQ for high res gallery

Toyota is officially jumping into the ranks of companies building city cars with the Geneva Motor Show debut of the new iQ. The 9.8ft-long iQ has a 78.8in wheelbase and seating for 3+1 in an assymetrical configuration. With such a short span between the axles, there obviously wouldn't be much room for passengers in the second row. The passenger side of the dashboard is farther forward than the driver's side allowing the seat to slide further forward ahead of the driver providing at least theoretical room for a third adult in the rear seat. The position behind the driver is strictly for kids or Cotton Hill. Overall for such a small car, Toyota has done some very nice packaging of components and developed smaller systems like the HVAC unit and steering gear. A flat fuel tank sits under the driver's seat. The company has designed the iQ to get a five star rating on the Euro NCAP crash test regime. Toyota hasn't provided powertrain details yet although they have said there will be two gas and one diesel engine when it goes on sale late in 2008. No word yet on pricing or whether we will ever see this car in the U.S.


[Source: Toyota]