Rumormill: BMW in talks to use iQ platform for future models, Toyota to get Mini in return?!
2009 Toyota iQ - Click above for high-res image gallery
Aston Martin may not be the only premium European automaker interested in Toyota's innovative iQ microcar. According to Inside Line and Autocar in the U.K., BMW and Toyota are in talks to collaborate on future small cars based on the Mini and iQ platforms. BMW may possibly use the interior and diminutive platform from the Japanese automaker's next-gen iQ for its long-rumored Isetta revival, possibly with an electric powertrain.
In return, Toyota would gain access to the German automaker's Mini division – specifically the Coupe and Roadster that were recently shown in concept form ahead of their expected debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September – though its not currently clear what Toyota would do with them. Neither company has confirmed these reports, so we're currently taking this rumor with an appropriately large grain of salt.
Gallery: 2009 Toyota iQ
[Sources: Inside Line, Autocar]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
twg 10:02AM (8/31/2009)
Put a BMW motorcycle engine in it, slap a Roundel here and there, and you've got an Isetta for the times...
Just remember that the current times are very different than the times that gave us the Isetta.
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Mike7 10:17AM (8/31/2009)
The Roundels would make a BMW-badged front-driver. That wouldn't work.
twg 10:53AM (8/31/2009)
With large Isetta badges and small Roundels I think they could get away with it. They get away with the X3/5/6 already. What they need to remember is that the original Isetta was born out of necessity. A modern Isetta will not be. It will be a fashion accessory for urban dwellers like the MINI. The original Isetta sold because it was a nice alternative to a motorcycle with a side car. It sold because people could afford it. That won't be the case this time around. Anyone with any sense would just buy a used Civic. It won't be a matter of what people can afford. A new Isetta will competing with the 'smart' (and the MINI, and the FIAT 500) as a 'premium' small car. So they can't expect to sell a ton of them. They probably don't even care to. They probably want to make it cute enough to sell just enough to improve their cafe numbers.
click.kas 2:24PM (8/31/2009)
IQ is one the most cleverest designs ever. The design uses the best usage of space to implement all the safety factors. Aston was interested in it , n its about time other did too.
http://www.indianautotalk.com
Avinash machado 10:05AM (8/31/2009)
Maybe Toyota could badge the Mini coupe and roadster as Scions.
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David 10:55AM (8/31/2009)
MINI is too good for Scion.
Luso 10:16AM (8/31/2009)
This a proper rumour. In many ways it would make sense. But it's so improbable. Almost as unreal as the brands Jaguar and Land Rover one day belonging to an Indian company. HOLD ON ONE SECOND...!?!?!
http://www.carnorama.com
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Danimal 10:25AM (8/31/2009)
It's never good when the Japanese and Germans get together...
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Luis 10:36AM (8/31/2009)
Is it better when the Germans and Americans? I think DaimlerChrysler did wonders
Mike7 10:41AM (8/31/2009)
Luis, read a history book.
Avinash machado 10:46AM (8/31/2009)
Like during World War 2?
Farmboy 11:36AM (8/31/2009)
COMMENT OF THE DAY!!!!!!
Kitko 12:39PM (8/31/2009)
BMW used a Toyota diesel in the first generation of the Mini.
daleam 10:25AM (8/31/2009)
The interior of that thing is horrible.
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my2CENTS 10:33AM (8/31/2009)
So not only will the iQ underpin an Aston Martin but a BMW as well? What is with this car and why are all the european luxury auto companies going crazy over it?
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Dustin 2:24PM (8/31/2009)
My questions exactly. And is it really such a perfect car that companies cannot better it with a product of their own?
John P. 10:38AM (8/31/2009)
Homely little bugger aint she?
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AMcA 12:04AM (9/01/2009)
Oddly, and this is from a guy who's still waiting for a Toyota he wants:
the iQ is pretty good looking for a tiny little car. Innovative, too, I hear.
John P. 12:18AM (9/01/2009)
I owned a Toyota once, really liked it too. They just don't have anything currently that floats my boat.
gerrrg 10:40AM (8/31/2009)
Can you say, the return of the MR-Spyder?
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