Autoblog

Buy a Scion iQ, get a free PlayStation Vita

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 08 May 2012 07:57:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Etc., Hatchback, Scion, Toys/Games

If you've been sniffing around the PlayStation Vita debating whether to pull the trigger, Scion has an offer for you: buy an iQ and you'll get the Vita free. This isn't the first tie-up with the little car and the little console: the iQ was one of the available vehicles in the MotorStorm RC game.

The offer is good only until June 31, 2012, so you've got some time to think about it. Sure, this will add (just) $15,700 to the price of your portable gaming station... but at least you'll have some way to carry it. And when you're finished making that deal, can we interest you in a Mercedes for the low low price of $1 million? But first, scroll down for a read of the Scion press release with details.

Continue reading Buy a Scion iQ, get a free PlayStation Vita

Buy a Scion iQ, get a free PlayStation Vita originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 May 2012 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SR Auto's Scion iQ looks like it swallowed a Mitsubishi Evo... and an Angry Birds pig

Chris Tutor — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 14:02:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Budget, Hatchback, Scion, Canada, Design/Style

Canada's SR Auto Group likes to take a car, any car, and make it wilder. The Audi S4 they did looks intriguingly evil. The wheels they've created for the Lamborghini Reventon are amazing.

Their latest canvas is the Scion iQ, which became Project Pryzm. "The objective behind Project Pryzm was to create a car that would leave you speechless," says SR Auto. Let's just say they're getting really close, but we still have a few things to say about it.

These guys apparently took inspiration from the Mitsubishi Evo and one of the pigs from Angry Birds, and we think they've come up with mixed results. We like the idea of a more aggressive iQ, we're just not sure we're fans of one with this much going on. Passengers are treated to an upgraded interior with leather seats and diamond-stitched suede inserts on the seat centers and door panels.

Check out our gallery for more images, then let us know what you think of this pint-sized mouth-breather.

SR Auto's Scion iQ looks like it swallowed a Mitsubishi Evo... and an Angry Birds pig originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota greenlights iQ Supercharger Concept for production [w/video]

Zach Bowman — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Budget, Performance, Etc., Japan, Videos, Hatchback, Scion, Toyota, Tokyo Auto Salon

Here's a surprise: Toyota has announced the company will produce the iQ Supercharger first unveiled at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Salon in limited quantities. The automaker has confirmed the development at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon. The vehicles will be built by partner Gazoo Racing and will feature a brawnier version of the same 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine found in the standard iQ. With a little forced induction on its side courtesy of a supercharger, the engine should be good for 130 horsepower and 133 pound-feet of torque. That's an increase of 36 ponies and 44 lb-ft over the stock configuration.

Like the concept, the production model will wear a not-so-subtle widebody kit, stiffer suspension and more aggressive brakes than its standard siblings. A six-speed manual transmission will be the only gearbox option. Indoors, buyers can expect to find custom seats and gauges that read all the way up to 124 mph.

Toyota and Gazoo Racing only plan to produce 100 of the muscle-bound iQ Supercharger models, and there's no indication its Scion cousin sold in the States will receive a similar treatment. What a shame. Hit the jump for a brief introductory video featuring the original concept as well as the full press release.

Continue reading Toyota greenlights iQ Supercharger Concept for production [w/video]

Toyota greenlights iQ Supercharger Concept for production [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota patent hints at sportier iQ

Zach Bowman — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 10:31:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Performance, Etc., Hatchback, Scion, Toyota

Toyota may be hard at work on a new version of the company's iQ microcar. The sleuths at Carscoop have managed to uncover a patent rendering of the fuel-sipping sub-compact wearing some considerably more aggressive bodywork. It's unclear whether these designs are meant for the U.S.-market iQ or its Toyota-badged twin, but we're more than a little intrigued by the vehicle's widebody treatment.

The kit looks to include a reworked front fascia and wheel arches along with a new rear valance that includes a diffuser and space for dual exhaust outlets. A massive rear spoiler looks to be part of the package, as well, along with side skirts to match the rest of the bodywork. What does Toyota have planned with this pint-sized bruiser? Your guess is as good as ours, but here's hoping we hear something concrete from the company soon. Head over to Carscoop for additional renderings.

Toyota patent hints at sportier iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion iQ Pit Boss by Cartel and iQ-MR by Tatsu are a wild bunch

Zach Bowman — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Performance, Hatchback, Scion, Design/Style

Scion has turned its newest model, the iQ, over to some of the most ambitious tuners in the U.S. for SEMA 2011, and the results do not disappoint. Cartel has gone crazy with the company's miniscule hatchback by turning it into a wild paddock service vehicle. With storage for tools and tires as well as a custom chop-top design, the Cartel Scion iQ Pit Boss is unlike anything else on the show floor. We're not sure what we like best; the earth-shaking stereo system or the ever-ready impact driver in the center console.

Tatsu, meanwhile, has taken an entirely different approach with the Scion iQ. The shop started by surgically removing the vehicle's tiny front-mounted four-cylinder engine and re-inserting it into back hatch. The result is what is very likely the world's first mid-engined Scion iQ. The four-pot dumps power on the rear wheels, though the fuel cell has been moved under the hood for a little extra weight balance. Even so, the short-wheel base racer should make for a seriously entertaining handful out on the track.

Scion iQ Pit Boss by Cartel and iQ-MR by Tatsu are a wild bunch originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iQ will be Scion's focus at SEMA

Zach Bowman — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Budget, Hatchback, Scion

Scion is headed to SEMA 2011 with a total of seven concept cars tuned by some of the most creative customizers around. Cartel, Dynamic, 686, Michael Chang, Jon Sibal and Tatsu have all turned their attentions toward the automaker's lineup, and the results are as varied as the shops that built them. The newest addition to the Scion stable, the tiny iQ, looks to have received most of the attention this year around, with a total of four iQ concepts headed to the sands of Las Vegas. One of the wildest has to be the iQ Pit Boss by Cartel.

Designed to be a fully functional paddock worker, the iQ Pit Boss boasts complete controls via a Apple iPad, a wireless hot spot, storage for wheels and tires, multiple charging stations and one very impressive stereo for the after-podium celebration.

Michael Chang also took a motorsports approach with his iQ-RS. With custom fender flares, serious aero work and wide tires, this iQ looks built for bouncing its way around a road course. But not every iQ in attendance is merely built to look the part. The Tatsu iQ-MR moves the engine to the middle of the chassis and ditches front wheel drive for rear-wheel glory. New cams, higher compression pistons and an AEM engine management tune all help give the car a little extra pep, too.

iQ will be Scion's focus at SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota first to market with MirrorLink functionality in iQ

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Toyota, Infotainment

Toyota Touch - the Euro-spec version of Entune - is gaining one more functionality in the Toyota (not Scion) iQ: Toyota Touch Life.

The system is the first to use the Car Connectivity Consortium's (CCC) MirrorLink technology, which can port an exact replica of a connected smartphone's display to the iQ's seven-inch touchscreen.

The first platform supported by Toyota Touch Life comes from Nokia - a key partner in the CCC - and its Car Mode app, which can be download from the Nokia Store for devices running Symbian Belle (which, ironically, is about to be phased out in favor of Windows Phone 7).

Apple iPhone users aren't left out of the mix and will be able to download the Application Launcher app from the App Store, allowing them to access the Garmin StreetPilot app, Stitcher radio and Facebook and Twitter integration through a clean and supposedly distraction-free interface. However, functionality in U.S. models remains an open question, something which should be cleared up in the coming months. Full details in the press blast below the fold.

Continue reading Toyota first to market with MirrorLink functionality in iQ

Toyota first to market with MirrorLink functionality in iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin can't build Cygnet fast enough to keep up with demand

Noah Joseph — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Hatchback, Aston Martin, UK, Luxury

Call it practical, call it luxurious, or call it a thinly veiled dilution of a legendary marque. -Whatever you want to call the Aston Martin Cygnet, at the end of the day, there are apparently a sizable number of customers lining up to drop the approximate equivalent of $50,000 on the tarted-up Toyota iQ. So many, in fact, that Autocar has learned that Aston can hardly keep its supply up with the demand.

The thing is that Aston takes its time building each Cygnet, receiving the chassis from Toyota and trimming them out to order to suitably Aston Martin levels of sumptuous fit and finish. Which sounds nice and all, but apparently customers are less keen to wait to have theirs built than they would be to simply drive one home from the dealership on the spot.

As far as we can recall, Cygnet models were only supposed to be sold to owners of other Aston Martin vehicles, so presumably this demand isn't just the result of regular (if well-heeled) consumers deciding to trade in their current car over something like a Mini Cooper Goodwood.

Aston Martin can't build Cygnet fast enough to keep up with demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vilner takes on Scion iQ, tries to outdo Aston Martin Cygnet

Jeff Glucker — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 07:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Scion, Toyota

Nasko Vilner is the Bulgarian tuner best known for reworking interiors into luxurious cabins fit for a king. Vilner's latest creation, however, is best fit for a king living in the city. The Vilner iQ forgoes the cloth seats of its plebeian Toyota and Scion counterparts, and instead, the front thrones of the Vilner iQ are wrapped in Napa leather while the rest of the interior is covered in Alcantara.

Certainly this begs the simple question, "Why?" Occasionally, as Vilner knows, that question can simply be answered, "Why not?"

Check out more of the Vilner iQ in the attached gallery.

Continue reading Vilner takes on Scion iQ, tries to outdo Aston Martin Cygnet

Vilner takes on Scion iQ, tries to outdo Aston Martin Cygnet originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Scion iQ

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Scion, First Drives

Scion's Supermini Outsmarts Smart

Despite a flurry of media attention at launch, sales of the Smart ForTwo have done a nosedive since its Stateside debut in 2008. Unsurprising, considering you could strap a lawnmower engine onto Yao Ming's left rollerskate and build a better car. But the ForTwo wasn't a failure of vision, it was a botched execution. Yet despite being underwhelming, overpriced and fitted with one of the worst gearboxes ever crafted by man, we're still seeing a slew of them puttering around San Francisco during the our first drive of the 2012 Scion iQ.

Coastal-types and urbanites are apparently hard-up for something spectacularly small, equally frugal and simple to park, so bringing the iQ to SF was a no-brainer for Scion. Its quirky shape and minimalist-at-all-costs design is the kind of thing Northern Californians should eat up with an oversized ramen renge. As well they should. The aptly named iQ outsmarts Smart at its own game, minimizing the compromises and creating something better than a pint-size commuter.

Continue reading 2012 Scion iQ

2012 Scion iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Scion iQ priced from $15,995*

Autoblog Staff — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 05:00:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Scion

2012 Scion iQ - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2012 Scion iQ will be priced from $15,995 (including destination charges) when it hits U.S. showrooms this fall. Scion says the iQ's U.S. launch, which has been postponed on numerous occasions due to various issues including the March 11 quake in Japan, will hit the West Coast first in October, followed by southern states in January, then the East Coast and, finally, the Midwest.

In typical Scion fashion, base models are well equipped and there are few options. The mid-level stereo includes Pandora integration, and an up-level version will be available with navigation. As with all Scions, loads of accessories (i.e. springs, body kits and wheels) will be available for the iQ.

For comparison, the iQ's $15,995 price tag means that it's slightly more expensive than both the $15,500 Fiat 500 and the $14,730 Mazda2, both of which offer significantly greater utility. And with fuel economy ratings of 36 mpg in the city, 37 on the highway and 37 mpg combined, it's not the fuel miser something of its size might suggest. Full details in the press blast after the break.

Continue reading 2012 Scion iQ priced from $15,995*

2012 Scion iQ priced from $15,995* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota officially confirms 2012 launch of electric Scion iQ

Autoblog Staff — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Technology

Scion iQ - Click above for high-res image gallery

During a recent dealer meeting held by Toyota in Las Vegas, the Japanese automaker reconfirmed that the launch of the Prius V is still on track for this fall, that the Prius C will be headed our way in early 2012 and that the electric RAV4, along with the plug-in Prius, are coming sometime next year, as well.

But it was Toyota's confirmation that the electric Scion iQ will hit U.S. dealerships in 2012 that caught us by surprise. Why's that? Prior to this announcement, Toyota had not officially committed to a launch date for the electrified iQ. Now, it seems, the all-electric Scion iQ will be America-bound in less than 18 month's time.

Toyota's electrified minicar, with its estimated range of 50 miles, will face fierce competition from vehicles like the 73-mile rated Nissan Leaf, 85-mile "best case range scenario" Mitsubishi i, and, if Think Global survives bankruptcy, its 100-mile rated City electric. With electric vehicles already having been condemned for not hitting advertised range ratings, one has to wonder if Scion's electric will be a success in the States. Of course, the battery-powered Scion iQ's MSRP has yet to be announced and the vehicle's price is sure to influence potential buyers one way or the other.

Continue reading Toyota officially confirms 2012 launch of electric Scion iQ

Toyota officially confirms 2012 launch of electric Scion iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion getting heavy into death metal scene?

Zach Bowman — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 11:32:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Marketing/Advertising, Hatchback, Scion

Scion FR-S Concept at the 2011 New York Auto Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Automotive News, Scion is in the midst of rethinking its company strategy to help pull the Toyota offshoot out of its current sales slump. Originally, the automaker's executives envisioned a brand with quick product cycles that promised to keep its hardware fresh and interesting.

Unfortunately, that whole recession thing happened. Scion has since stretched its refresh cycle to save on cash, but it sounds like the brand also has plans to attempt to appeal to an audience outside of its current demographic. Apparently, Scion may even probe into the death metal scene to rummage up buyers.

The Japanese brand originally marketed heavily to the alternative and hip hop music base, but other brands have since caught on to the strategy. That helped to turn those genres more mainstream, so Scion is headed back out to the fringe.

In addition, buyers can expect to see two new models in Scion showrooms soon, including the $20,000-plus model based on the FR-S Coupe Concept and the iQ minicar. Somehow, we have a hard time picturing death metal junkies driving around in customized iQs, but what do we know?

Scion getting heavy into death metal scene? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pickup, crossover and RWD coupe being considered for Scion?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Truck, Crossover, Hatchback, Scion, Toyota

Toyota A-BAT Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Scion is about to expand its initial three-model lineup with a rather intriguing new vehicle that's set to take on the Smart Fortwo as the microcar of choice for those looking to downsize as far as humanly possible. While the upcoming iQ is a pretty nifty machine, it won't be quite practical for a large number of drivers here in the United States.

Hence, it's not entirely surprising that Scion is reportedly considering a possible fifth, sixth or even seventh model. As before, talk of a small pickup truck is apparently on the table. Interestingly, Scion vice president Jack Hollis suggests that something like the Toyota A-BAT concept could be revived in Scion guise.

Another possible Scion model could be based on the love-it-or-(more-likely)-hate-it Hako Concept from the 2008 New York Auto Show. Finally - and certainly most interestingly for enthusiasts - a small, rear-wheel-drive sport coupe is also on the table for consideration. We know where we're casting our vote...

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Toyota A-BAT Concept

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Pickup, crossover and RWD coupe being considered for Scion? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion iQ to hit dealerships in March 2011

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Scion, Toyota

2011 Scion iQ - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've all heard the rhetoric about how small cars are primed to be big sellers over the next few years, and nobody seems to be responding to that direction sooner than Toyota. The Japanese automaker is getting ready to challenge the diminutive Smart Fortwo here in the United States with the Scion iQ, and we've just been told by Toyota representatives to expect it to hit dealer showrooms around March of next year.

Unlike its main competitor, the iQ sports a unique 3+1 seating arrangement that will allow three real-sized human beings to fit in the car with an extra spot for a munchkin or car seat. Scion also promises that its micro car will boast real storage capacity, which is an important factor if people have any inkling to use their urban runabout as a second car.

Expect a price somewhere in the vicinity of the Fortwo when the iQ hits the streets early next year.

Gallery: New York 2010: Scion iQ

Scion iQ to hit dealerships in March 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:41:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Budget, Japan, Hatchback, Scion

2011 Scion iQ - Click above for high-res image gallery

Well, well, well - it looks like Toyota's iQ is coming to the U.S. after all, only it will be (as reported) sporting a Scion badge. Makes sense. Especially as according to Scion, the world's smallest four-seater is aimed squarely at a very young demographic. Not just young, but hip and urban, too. In fact, we were told that the iQ represents a "new urbanism," and is a vehicle for a "progressive buyer." We can hear Glenn Beck's aneurysm from here.

As for details, the "mini-er, smart-er" iQ sports a 1.3-liter engine delivering its not-yet-divulged power through a CVT. Mileage should be in the high 30s, which is reasonable but far from overwhelming for such a small package. The iQ will also ship with stability control, traction control and ABS, as well as ten - count 'em - ten airbags, as well as the industry's first-ever rear window bag. As for now, that's the whole story. We'll update you on price, performance specs, and on-sale date when we know more. Press release after the jump.

Gallery: New York 2010: Scion iQ

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing

New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Scion to get stronger Stateside focus, two new models

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Scion

2009 Scion tC - Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite the fact that Scion is a uniquely American invention for Toyota, only one of its current models - the rapidly aging tC coupe - was actually designed here in the States. Perhaps it shouldn't come as too big a surprise, then, that U.S. Scion sales are down by 49-percent compared to 2008 levels.

According to Automotive News, Yoshi Inaba, president of Toyota Motor North America, says that's all set to change in the near future as the youth-oriented Japanese brand draws up two new models that will be heavily influenced by American tastes. We certainly hope that doesn't mean bigger and unnecessarily bloated like the second-generation xB.

A redesigned tC model will reportedly come first, followed by the Scionized version of the mini-me Toyota iQ. Inaba didn't give any sort of timetable on new model launches and even said that the automaker hasn't yet determined what new vehicles will come after what's currently scheduled.

Whatever comes our way, it seems that we should expect Scion to continue marketing to a young audience. To that end, the company will continue to focus on innovative new technologies that will boost "connectivity," though that could have a number of differing meanings. We'll see what Toyota has in mind soon enough, as the redesigned tC is scheduled to go on sale later this year.

Gallery: 2009 Scion tC

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd.]

Report: Scion to get stronger Stateside focus, two new models originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Toyota to offer hybrid Scion iQ in sedan, five-door

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Budget, Hybrid, Japan, Hatchback, Scion, Toyota

Scion iQ Concept - click above for hi-res image gallery

You know that Toyota iQ your cousin's seen running around Europe and Japan? It's making its way Stateside, first to next week's Detroit Auto Show, then to a Scion dealer near you as a hybrid. This is according to a scoop by Inside line. We've known for a while now that the iQ will be showing up as a Scion, just not for certain as a hybrid. Also, according to IL, the fate of the brand hangs in the balance. Also-also, they might (yay!) drop the name iQ.

That's right, the diminutive Toyota with the silly name is going to greet us as a youth-branded Scion. In multiple flavors, too. First will come a five-door hatchback, followed next by a four-door sedan. The latter is almost a little puzzling - who on earth wants a four-door sedan version - but then we recall all the other cars PR types tell us the American market forces into four-door guise and we're not surprised one bit. The Scion iQ will also come as a three-door hatch. Expect the five-door to show up first, towards the end of 2011.

The engine options are pretty interesting. If you so desire, a 1.3-liter four-banger will produce 93 horsepower. However, most folks will probably opt for the hybrid version. First of all, the gas and electric propulsion is so cheap that Toyota will be able to sell it for $15,000 or less. Second, expect a 1.5-liter four and some sort of electric motor to produce between 100 and 120 hp and return 60 mile per gallon. Not bad at all. Again, Inside Line ends their scoop explaining that if the iQ doesn't get youngsters buying Scions, nothing will. Er, make that nothing will have a chance to, as Toyota is likely to fold the brand.

Gallery: New York: Scion iQ Concept

[Source: Inside Line]

Report: Toyota to offer hybrid Scion iQ in sedan, five-door originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pulled Ahead? Scion dealer reportedly says iQ headed for U.S. in 2010 [w/POLL]

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:58:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Scion, Rumormill

Scion iQ Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last we heard, Toyota was planning to bring the diminutive iQ to the American market badged as a Scion in either late 2010 or early 2011 as a 2012 model. According to AutoWeek, that date may have been moved up a few months as a major Scion dealership (which declined to be named) has confirmed the car for next September or October. If true, that could mean that the car will carry a 2011 designation, and might also pull the iQ ahead of the replacement for the tC coupe, which was previously said to be the next Scion in waiting.

It's no secret that the Scion brand has been hit harder than most in the face of the worst economic downturn in recent memory (down 57.8 percent for the year through July), and it's apparently thought the 66-mpg Smart-killing iQ is just what the doctor ordered to spruce up the automaker's lineup.

Speaking at the iQ's debut in Scion drag at the New York Auto Show, company Veep Jack Hollis said that "the interest was so high that it would be silly for us not to fight for [the iQ], but the next-generation tC is our top priority now." That next-gen tC is rumored to drop sometime in mid-to-late-2010 with more aggressive styling and a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower. Armchair quarterback time: which new model is more important for the Scion brand, the iQ or the tC? Click past the break to take part in our poll.

Gallery: New York: Scion iQ Concept

[Source: AutoWeek]

Continue reading Pulled Ahead? Scion dealer reportedly says iQ headed for U.S. in 2010 [w/POLL]

Pulled Ahead? Scion dealer reportedly says iQ headed for U.S. in 2010 [w/POLL] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Scion iQ headed for America by early 2011 with a few changes

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:27:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Green, Hatchback, Scion, Toyota

Scion iQ Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

As expected, Toyota's youthful Scion division will indeed get a version of the diminutive iQ for the North American market, possibly by either the end of 2010 as an '11 model or in early 2011 as a '12 model. According to Motor Trend, the car will cost about the same as the Yaris and get the usual modifications for the American market, such as slightly extended bumpers and recalibrated airbags.

Fortunately, the Big Wheels body kit fitted to the conceptual Scion iQ shown off at the New York Auto Show won't come to the States as standard equipment. We're not entirely sure what powerplants Toyota plans to use in the American iQ, but in other markets it's available with three engines displacing between 1.0- and 1.4-liters, and no hybrid iQ is currently planned due to cost and packaging considerations.

Interestingly, MT also reports that the Toyota FT-EV electric car concept from this year's Detroit Auto Show, based on the iQ minicar, will hit the market by 2012. At this time, the Japanese automaker may still be deciding between tried-and-true nickel metal hydride batteries or more powerful but unproven lithium ion units. Regardless, Toyota's aiming for a 50-mile range and an eight-hour recharge from a standard wall outlet.

Gallery: New York: Scion iQ Concept

[Source: Motor Trend]

REPORT: Scion iQ headed for America by early 2011 with a few changes originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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