Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Aston Martin Cygnet (nee Toyota iQ) to hit European city streets next year?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/aston-martin-cygnet-nee-toyota-iq-to-hit-european-city-streets/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/aston-martin-cygnet-nee-toyota-iq-to-hit-european-city-streets/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/aston-martin-cygnet-nee-toyota-iq-to-hit-european-city-streets/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Aston Martin Cygnet Concept - Click above to enlarge
Most of us would be willing to kill for the opportunity to have an Aston Martin as our daily commuter. (Then again, most of us here at Autoblog are writers and don't commute much of anywhere). But the British purveyor of luxury GTs figures some of its customers - those based in major European metropolitan centers like London and Paris, for example - could use something a little more compact for driving into the city. Hence the Cygnet, which as you may recall is essentially a Toyota iQ with some Aston touches.

News of the car's development broke a few months ago, but the latest reports now indicate that the Aston-badged city car could begin shipping as early as next year. Although no mechanical changes are expected to take place, the pre-assembled units are expected to be shopped to AM's plant in Gaydon, England, where the company will give the citycar its own unique interior, slap on an Aston grille and the requisite badging and raise the price up to $32,000 - about twice the price Toyota fetches for a stock iQ.

Whether Aston's customers bite remains to be seen, but for our part, we still want to see one of these face off against the Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari for the exotic supermini crown.

[Source: Automotive News - subs req'd]

Aston Martin Cygnet (nee Toyota iQ) to hit European city streets next year? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston cygnetaston martinaston martin cygnetAstonCygnetAstonMartinAstonMartinCygnetcygnetiqToyotatoyota iqToyotaIqWed, 07 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Lexus LF-Ch joins Toyota Auris Hybrid, plug-in Prius and two iQ concepts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/frankfurt-preview-lexus-lf-ch-joins-toyota-auris-hybrid-plug-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/frankfurt-preview-lexus-lf-ch-joins-toyota-auris-hybrid-plug-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/frankfurt-preview-lexus-lf-ch-joins-toyota-auris-hybrid-plug-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Lexus LF-Ch concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

With just a few weeks left before the Frankfurt Motor Show kicks off in high gear, Lexus has decided its high time to let loose a single teaser image of its hotly anticipated hybrid hatchback concept. The C-Segment model carries the LF-Ch designation and not the recently trademarked CT nameplate as first thought, making us wonder if there's something else up the automaker's corporate sleeve in the near future.

"Think BMW 1 Series, but hybrid." That's how Lexus describes the LF-Ch, and you could easily add the Audi A3 and Volvo C30 to that list of competitors. Underhood will be some form of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive, though the Japanese automaker has yet to release any actual powertrain details beyond that. Expect a more detailed explanation of the car's finer points in the run up to Frankfurt.

Across the showroom floor in Toyota's display will be the Auris HSD concept - which Toyota says is the first application of its hybrid technology in a mainstream model... other than the Prius, we presume - along with a plug-in version of its third-generation 2010 Prius and two separate concepts based on the diminutive iQ. Click past the break for the official press release and see the whole shebang in our gallery below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Lexus and Toyota preview

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Lexus LF-Ch joins Toyota Auris Hybrid, plug-in Prius and two iQ concepts

Frankfurt Preview: Lexus LF-Ch joins Toyota Auris Hybrid, plug-in Prius and two iQ concepts originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowlexuslexus hybridlexus hybrid hatchbacklexus lf-chLexusHybridLexusHybridHatchbackLexusLf-chtoyotatoyota auristoyota auris hybridtoyota iQtoyota iq collectiontoyota iq sportstoyota plug intoyota plug in hybridtoyota plug-intoyota plug-in hybridtoyota plug-in hybrid li-iontoyota prius phevToyotaAurisToyotaAurisHybridToyotaIqToyotaIqCollectionToyotaIqSportsToyotaPlug-inToyotaPlug-inHybridToyotaPlug-inHybridLi-ionToyotaPlugInToyotaPlugInHybridToyotaPriusPhevTue, 01 Sep 2009 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: BMW in talks to use iQ platform for future models, Toyota to get Mini in return?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/rumormill-bmw-in-talks-to-use-iq-platform-for-future-models-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/rumormill-bmw-in-talks-to-use-iq-platform-for-future-models-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/rumormill-bmw-in-talks-to-use-iq-platform-for-future-models-to/#comments
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]

Rumormill: BMW in talks to use iQ platform for future models, Toyota to get Mini in return?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 toyota iq2009ToyotaIqbmwbmw iqbmw toyotaBmwIqBmwToyotaminimini coupemini roadsterMiniCoupeMiniRoadstertoyota iqToyotaIqMon, 31 Aug 2009 09:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Toyota iQ: Small Car, Font Jockey]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/video-toyota-iq-small-car-font-jockey/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/video-toyota-iq-small-car-font-jockey/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/video-toyota-iq-small-car-font-jockey/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to view the video after the jump

Anyone who has ever used a computer knows that there are a lot of fonts out there, but we can't think of one that was designed with the use of a cute little hatchback. Letmedesign typographers Pierre & Damien teamed up with Stef Vancampenhoudt to create a whole new font using the new Toyota iQ, and the resulting ABCs are colorful to say the least.

Hit the jump to watch Vancampenhoudt maneuver the iQ inside a parking garage in an effort to recreate the alphabet. The iQ was fitted with red, green yellow and blue lights at the corners while being taped by an overhead camera. Special software was created to track the colored dots and create a one of a kind font, made by the ultra-compact Toyota city car. Check it out, and if you like the font, you can download it here. Thanks for the tip, Tom!

[Source: Vimeo]

Continue reading VIDEO: Toyota iQ: Small Car, Font Jockey

VIDEO: Toyota iQ: Small Car, Font Jockey originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abcalphabetCampenhoudtcity carCityCarfontsiQLetmedesigntoyotatoyota iQToyotaIqVancampenhoudtFri, 17 Jul 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Scion iQ headed for America by early 2011 with a few changes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-scion-iq-headed-for-america-by-early-2011-with-a-few-cha/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-scion-iq-headed-for-america-by-early-2011-with-a-few-cha/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-scion-iq-headed-for-america-by-early-2011-with-a-few-cha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 scion iq2011ScionIq2012 scion iq2012ScionIqgreenscionscion iqScionIqtoyota ft-evtoyota ft-ev concepttoyota iqToyotaFt-evToyotaFt-evConceptToyotaIqMon, 29 Jun 2009 19:27:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Aston Martin Cygnet adds a smart set of clothes to the Toyota iQ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-aston-martin-cygnet-adds-a-smart-set-of-clothes-to-the-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-aston-martin-cygnet-adds-a-smart-set-of-clothes-to-the-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-aston-martin-cygnet-adds-a-smart-set-of-clothes-to-the-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Toyota iQ-based Aston Martin Cygnet Concept - Click above to enlarge

With a nod to our current global economic and environmental issues, super GT maker Aston Martin has reportedly announced the world's first super luxury supermini. Having blown their development budget on the V12 Vantage RS, Rapide and One-77 hypercar, they turned to an unlikely partner for some help: Toyota. Aston Martin has taken the Toyota iQ 3+1 commuter and given it a tailored suit from Savile Row. The result is the new Aston Martin Cygnet you see above. In case you're wondering, a "cygnet" is a baby swan, not to be confused with an ugly duckling.

Although technically just a concept, word has it that the vehicle will be put into limited production and sold exclusively to existing Aston Martin owners, at least initially. There's a full press release after the jump, but the Cygnet should sell for around £20,000 (around $33k USD) when it goes on sale late next year. The car will retain the iQ's unique 3+1 seating but will be tailored to the individual customer's needs when it is assembled in Gaydon. Think of it as a move to "1-down" BMW's MINI brand. We only have the one photo for now, but from what we can see it doesn't look as unfortunate as we might have expected with Aston's distinctive grille, hood cutouts, side vents, and of course, the winged badge. Still, you have to wonder what this sort of thing might do to the Engish company's brand equity, no? Follow the jump for the presser. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: Toyota via Autocar]

Continue reading REPORT: Aston Martin Cygnet adds a smart set of clothes to the Toyota iQ

REPORT: Aston Martin Cygnet adds a smart set of clothes to the Toyota iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AM CygnetAM iQAmCygnetAmIqaston martin cygnetAston Martin Cygnet conceptAston Martin iQAstonMartinCygnetAstonMartinCygnetConceptAstonMartinIqbreakingcygnetCygnet conceptCygnetConcepttoyota iqToyotaIqMon, 29 Jun 2009 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota ups the small car score with the iQ<sup>3</sup> (iQ cubed)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/18/toyota-ups-the-small-car-score-with-the-iq-sup-3-sup-iq-cubed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/18/toyota-ups-the-small-car-score-with-the-iq-sup-3-sup-iq-cubed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/18/toyota-ups-the-small-car-score-with-the-iq-sup-3-sup-iq-cubed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Toyota iQ3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

While the original iQ is apparently a museum piece, the new iQ3, which Toyota announced at the Geneva Motor Show in March, is now on sale in the UK. The iQ cubed adds a 98 bhp 1.33-liter engine with Toyota Optimal Drive to the diminutive Smart competitor and the start-stop system helps the iQ3 get CO2 emissions down to 113g/km. On the UK's combined cycle, the most efficient iQ3, the manual with a six-speed gearbox, gets 49 mpg (U.S.). Even with a Multidrive CVT transmission, the iQ3 can achieve 46 mpg (U.S.) and CO2 emissions of just 120 g/km. Both models qualify for the UK's Band B road tax, which is just £35 a year. The manual starts at £11,495 while the Multidrive begins at £12,495. If you have more money to spend, four trims are offered that add everything from chrome trim to Bluetooth connectivity. Make the jump for all the details.


Gallery: Toyota iQ3

Continue reading Toyota ups the small car score with the iQ3 (iQ cubed)

Toyota ups the small car score with the iQ3 (iQ cubed) originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iqiq3toyota iqtoyota iq3ToyotaIqToyotaIq3Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shot?: Scion iQ concept caught before New York unveiling]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/spy-shot-scion-iq-concept-caught-before-new-york-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/spy-shot-scion-iq-concept-caught-before-new-york-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/spy-shot-scion-iq-concept-caught-before-new-york-unveiling/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

With the April Fools jokes flying, we're having a hard time taking anything seriously, and the newest source of our skepticism comes in the form of a singular spy shot showing the Scion iQ concept ahead of its official unveiling at next week's New York Auto Show. The head-on pic gives us a glimpse of a reworked fascia, with a new front bumper sporting LED running lights, a revised splitter and Scion badge, but something just looks... off. The consensus around the Autoblog water-cooler is the shot may just have been lightened in Photoshop, giving it an odd aura, but we'll find out if it's legit soon enough - the New York show will kick off on Wednesday, where Toyota has already confirmed a new compact concept will be unveiled under the Scion brand. Stay tuned...

[Source: Autoweek]

Spy Shot?: Scion iQ concept caught before New York unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 14:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iqnew yorknew york 2009new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShowscionscion iqScionIqtoyota iqToyotaIqWed, 01 Apr 2009 14:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Scion confirms new concept car headed for New York]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/scion-confirms-new-concept-car-headed-for-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/scion-confirms-new-concept-car-headed-for-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/scion-confirms-new-concept-car-headed-for-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Toyota iQ - Click above for a high-res gallery

Scion has decided to end speculation about whether a new concept vehicle will be unveiled at the New York Auto Show by issuing a press release confirming our suspicions. In the process, though, the automaker has stirred the pot, yet again, about what type of vehicle will be on display. According to the super short blurb (pasted after the break), the new concept will be a "micro-subcompact" and will represent "a new segment for the brand aimed toward the growing urbanization trend."

Sounds like a U.S. version of the diminutive Toyota iQ to us. The new model may wear the tD moniker that's been seen floating around the U.S. Patent and Trademark offices and would not displace the aging tC in the automaker's line. Come back around noon EDT on April 8th to find out for sure.


Gallery: 2009 Toyota iQ

Continue reading Scion confirms new concept car headed for New York

Scion confirms new concept car headed for New York originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new york 2009new york auto showNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShowNYAutoShowscionscion iqscion tdScionIqScionTdtoyota iqtoyota iq usToyotaIqToyotaIqUsWed, 18 Mar 2009 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Tiny Toyota iQ registers 5 Star NCAP performance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/19/tiny-toyota-iq-registers-5-star-ncap-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/19/tiny-toyota-iq-registers-5-star-ncap-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/19/tiny-toyota-iq-registers-5-star-ncap-performance/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Toyota iQ's NCAP test

We still wouldn't want to crack the tiny Toyota iQ into anything, but the little rollerskate has earned itself 5 stars in Euro NCAP safety testing. It's not a perfect correlation to hitting real objects, but the performance will undoubtedly help make a sales case. Results for the iQ are nearly as good as its larger sibling, the Avensis. The iQ will bust up your neck with whiplash, and the pole test also showed marginal chest protection, deflecting the ribs quite a bit.

The iQ's small size also leads to a C- for rear seat protection, and there's upgrades and revisions for the ISOFIX anchors and Britax seats to keep bambinos and bambinas secure. Despite any caveats, however, the iQ's rating trumps the four stars for Ford's new Ka, which will undoubtedly be strategically mentioned. We'd still drive anything in this segment with a modicum of care and heightened awareness. It's much safer, no matter what you drive, to avoid incidents all together.

Gallery: Toyota iQ Euro NCAP tests


[Source: EuroNCAP via GreenMotor]

Tiny Toyota iQ registers 5 Star NCAP performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>euro ncapEuroNcaptoyota iqtoyota iq crash testtoyota iq euro ncaptoyota iq ncapToyotaIqToyotaIqCrashTestToyotaIqEuroNcapToyotaIqNcapThu, 19 Feb 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai planning Toyota iQ rival]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/31/hyundai-planning-toyota-iq-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/31/hyundai-planning-toyota-iq-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/31/hyundai-planning-toyota-iq-rival/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It is codenamed "green baby," and it is Hyundai's answer to the Toyota iQ. A Hyundai Europe insider hinted that the car could be funkier and "more basic and functional" than the iQ. The iQ Concept had a pretty neat interior, but there really isn't much space between it and the backstop of basic transportation - at least, not when it comes to anything you'd want to sit in.

Drivetrains and engines haven't been discussed, but the 12-valve 4-cylinder with 66 hp from the i10 would probably be in the cards. Hyundai has said that i10 is too small for the U.S., so the even smaller "green baby" will probably be offered only in Europe at first, and could be on sale by as soon as next year.

[Source: Autocar]

Hyundai planning Toyota iQ rival originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Jan 2009 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyhatchbackhyundaii10iqrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationsuperminitoyotatoyota iqToyotaIqSat, 31 Jan 2009 14:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota working on Yaris-sized 7-Seater?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/toyota-working-on-yaris-sized-7-seater/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/toyota-working-on-yaris-sized-7-seater/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/toyota-working-on-yaris-sized-7-seater/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you've been distressed by not being able to buy a clown car at any local lot, Toyota has news for you: the company is working on a Yaris-sized seven-seater. That is odd enough to make us ask "What?" and "Why?" in several languages. Even better, though, is when Toyota engineer Hiroki Nakajima says "We can do it, and give limo-like legroom in the back." We aren't sure what Nakajima-san's idea of a limo is, but the current five-searter Yaris doesn't have limo-like room for the people in the front, much less the back and the cargo area...

The next Yaris is due in 2011, and recent rumors suggest the use of Toyota iQ's packaging to make it more roomy inside. Toyota has also said it planned to build an MPV on blueprints of the iQ. While a repackaged Yaris with iQ clever bits would be an impressively spacious subcompact, we simply can't see it making for a limo-like minivan.

[Source: Auto Express]

Toyota working on Yaris-sized 7-Seater? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compactiqminivanmpvsubcompacttoyotatoyota iqtoyota yarisToyotaIqToyotaYarisyarisFri, 19 Dec 2008 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Toyota iQ convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/25/rendered-speculation-toyota-iq-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/25/rendered-speculation-toyota-iq-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/25/rendered-speculation-toyota-iq-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If the new Toyota iQ is going to compete against the smart fortwo, an open-top version is going to be a necessity. We've already heard rumblings of a possible roadster based on the iQ's underpinnings, so a convertible option certainly seems possible. If renderings from Japan's Best Car are to be believed (we're not convinced), the Japanese automaker could mimic the fortwo's cabriolet style by removing the front and rear roof sections, fitting an integrated roll bar and adding a set of soft-tops.

The main advantage for the iQ has over the fortwo is the city car's extra passenger seats. Unlike the smart, Toyota's microcar manages to cram four belts into its tiny frame and a drop-top variant would make the iQ the world's smallest-ever four-seat convertible. While a credible contender to the fortwo cabrio is surely in the cards, we're still waiting to see the iQ rebadged a Scion and brought to the U.S. to truly give smart a run for its money.

[Source: Best Car via Carscoop]

Rendered Speculation: Toyota iQ convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>toyotatoyota iqtoyota iq cabriolettoyota iq convertibletoyota iq roadsterToyotaIqToyotaIqCabrioletToyotaIqConvertibleToyotaIqRoadsterTue, 25 Nov 2008 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Great things come in small packages. iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/13/great-things-come-in-small-packages-iq-wins-japanese-car-of-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/13/great-things-come-in-small-packages-iq-wins-japanese-car-of-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/13/great-things-come-in-small-packages-iq-wins-japanese-car-of-th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the production Toyota iQ

Any guesses on what car Japanese jurors might pick as their Car of the Year? Guess again; and again. That's right, the Nissan GT-R only managed to snag enough votes to garner a bronze finish in Japanese COTY voting. Wondering what epically amazing machinery bested the mighty Godzilla? That would be the miniscule Toyota iQ. Once again, it is clear just how far the priorities for transportation have changed. Supercar levels of acceleration, on-board supercomputers and remarkable handling prowess just aren't enough to woo the top pick from judges in Japan. Not only was the iQ the top overall choice in a landslide victory, the Citroën C5 managed to garner enough votes to steal second place from the mighty GT-R.

Don't get us wrong, the Toyota with the funny name is a vehicle deserving of all the recognition it gets. A packaging miracle, the smarty-pants iQ manages to cram four real human beings inside a footprint that's pretty darn close to that of the smart fortwo, a car that seats just two people including the driver. These days, exceptional fuel economy, low emissions and intelligent packaging are apparently the way to a Japanese heart, and likely many from the rest of the world, as well. What do you think? Is the Toyota iQ the, ahem... smart person's COTY?

Gallery: 2009 Toyota iQ


[Source: Inside Line]

Great things come in small packages. iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 12:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car of the yearCarOfTheYeariqjapanese car of the yearJapaneseCarOfTheYeartoyota iqtoyota iq car of the yearToyotaIqToyotaIqCarOfTheYearThu, 13 Nov 2008 12:37:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Toyota iQ gets first commercial]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/20/video-toyota-iq-gets-first-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/20/video-toyota-iq-gets-first-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/20/video-toyota-iq-gets-first-commercial/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to view the video

We saw Toyota's iQ city car debut in Geneva last year, and now little Ikey has its own TV spot. Granted, there's precious little of the actual car shown until the last few seconds of the commercial, but this is advertising, after all. The spot is high-concept, with no boilerplate screaming about powertrains or showing the car oversteering across the screen, but you can tell that the car looks like a Scion xD that's been treated to a cut-n-shut for a length under three meters. Pronounce it "ick" if you like, but when your competition is the Smart, it's hard not to look, uh, smarter. Video embedded after jump.

Continue reading VIDEO: Toyota iQ gets first commercial

VIDEO: Toyota iQ gets first commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota worked up an entirely new platform for its new iQ minicar, which features a very unique 3+1 seating arrangement in an effort to outsmart its competitors. Such a development takes a good deal of resources and Toyota seems to be considering ways to defray that cost through additional models based on the same underpinnings. The latest vehicle architecture to add to the always active rumormill would be a small two-seat roadster. If the German buff book Auto Motor und Sport is correct, expect the new sub-Miata-fighter to debut in concept form at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show and be called the Spider. The roadster would likely get the same powerplants as the normal iQ, including both gasoline and diesel four-cylinder variants. A decision on a production model, though, is likely still a good ways off. Other iQ models said to be waiting in the wings are an upcoming Yaris successor, a hybrid and a mini-minivan. Though we know the iQ has a good chance of being sold in the United States wearing a Scion badge, we have no idea yet how many of these other models could follow.

Gallery: 2009 Toyota iQ


[Source: Auto Motor und Sport via Carscoop]

Rumormill: Toyota developing baby roadster based on iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iqiq roadsteriq spiderIqRoadsterIqSpidertokyo motor showTokyoMotorShowtoyota iqtoyota iq concepttoyota iq roadstertoyota iq spiderToyotaIqToyotaIqConceptToyotaIqRoadsterToyotaIqSpiderMon, 20 Oct 2008 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota releases pricing and spec info for European iQ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/toyota-releases-pricing-and-spec-info-for-european-iq/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/toyota-releases-pricing-and-spec-info-for-european-iq/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/toyota-releases-pricing-and-spec-info-for-european-iq/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the production Toyota iQ

IF you're in Europe and hoping to get your name on a list for a Toyota iQ, now's the time. Toyota has opened up the order banks for the cleverly packaged microcar prior to its January availability date, while also giving up the goods on available specs, options, and pricing. The iQ comes in only two trim levels, iQ and iQ2, and pricing starts at £9,495 for the manual, and £10,495 for the multidrive CVT transmission. All iQ models come with 15-inch alloys, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, air conditioning and six speaker audio system with auxiliary socket. Checking the box for the iQ2 adds another £1,000, but for the money you receive high-gloss wheels, fog lamps, auto headlights and rain sensing wipers, smart entry and start system and climate control.

The iQ is pretty damn small, but Toyota is stuffing the tiny coupe with plenty of standard safety features, including ABS, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control and nine airbags, including the world's first rear window airbag. Toyota also offers five different option packages including leather seats, navigation, and iSport, iUrban and iStyle packages. The iQ may be small, but after looking at the specs, it looks like Toyota went out of its way to give you just about any option you can dream up for a bargain basement price. You just can't get one if you live in the US, at least not yet. Hit the jump to view Toyota's detailed press release.

Gallery: Production Toyota iQ


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota releases pricing and spec info for European iQ

Toyota releases pricing and spec info for European iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeiq specs and pricesIqSpecsAndPricesmicrocartoyota iqToyotaIqFri, 10 Oct 2008 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota iQ could come Stateside wearing Scion badge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/toyota-iq-could-come-stateside-wearing-scion-badge/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/toyota-iq-could-come-stateside-wearing-scion-badge/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/toyota-iq-could-come-stateside-wearing-scion-badge/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Toyota iQ

Rumors have been swirling over the past few months that Toyota was considering bringing its iQ mini-car to the States, and according to MotorTrend that's exactly what's going to happen at the LA Auto Show this November, where Toyota will unveil a U.S.-spec iQ wearing Scion badges.

The iQ - originally destined for sale in Japan and Europe - features a 3+1 seating arrangement and motivated by either a gasoline-powered 1.0-liter three-pot or a 1.4-liter diesel. However, MT speculates that the Yaris' 1.5-liter four, mated to a manual gearbox or CVT will be fitted for duty in the U.S.

Ideally, the Scion iQ would have to be priced at or below its direct competitor, the Smart ForTwo, so expect a sticker of under $15,000 if and when it goes on sale. The rationale behind offering the iQ as a Scion would finally give some credence to the brand's targeted urban demographic, which has been faltering in recent years. And with more usable passenger and cargo space than a ForTwo, the Scion iQ could be a hit for people downsizing their rides without sacrificing some of the practicality found in a more traditional runabout.

Gallery: Production Toyota iQ


[Source: MotorTrend]

Toyota iQ could come Stateside wearing Scion badge originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iqla auto showLaAutoShowscionscion iqScionIqtoyota iqToyotaIqFri, 10 Oct 2008 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi and Toyota considering offering smaller cars in the States]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/audi-and-toyota-considering-offering-smaller-cars-in-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/audi-and-toyota-considering-offering-smaller-cars-in-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/audi-and-toyota-considering-offering-smaller-cars-in-the-states/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click either image for a high-res gallery

It's been well documented that we Americans have been growing larger, and if the auto manufacturers thinking of bringing their small cars Stateside follow through, we're going to feel like giants. Toyota and Audi are the latest automakers discussing whether to bring smaller transportation for us portly Americans. Audi, who didn't design the A1 concept for US duty, now believes it's a good idea to rethink its original strategy. Audi marketing boss Peter Schwarzenbauer thinks US customers have made a real shift towards smaller cars and trucks, and that the movement has staying power. Audi brass has made no decisions regarding the A1 in the US, but the fact that they're genuinely looking into the matter is a good thing.

Toyota's cleverly packaged iQ is also being considered for sales in the US. A company insider told Automotive News that Toyota was looking into the viability of the iQ in the US. The sharp looking micro car goes on sale in Europe beginning in early 2009, and we wouldn't be surprised if it arrived Stateside some time after that.

Gallery: Audi A1 Sportback LIVE


Gallery: 2009 Toyota iQ


[Source: Automotive News subs req'd]

Audi and Toyota considering offering smaller cars in the States originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audi A1AudiA1small carSmallCartoyota iqToyotaIqUS salesUsSalesMon, 06 Oct 2008 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: the production Toyota iQ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/05/pics-aplenty-the-production-toyota-iq/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/05/pics-aplenty-the-production-toyota-iq/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/05/pics-aplenty-the-production-toyota-iq/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for more high-res shots of the European Toyota iQ

By naming its impending city car the iQ, Toyota makes no bones about who it's after. And with an extra set of seats fitted into its diminutive little runabout, the Japanese auto giant looks to one-up the smart fortwo with a vehicle that measures about the same size. Ahead of its European release, Toyota decided to release a few new shots of the production iQ, and we've gone ahead and assembled them into a high-res gallery for your viewing pleasure. After looking things over again, we like what we see. The look is obviously Toyota and we think that the flowing but angular lines translate a bit better in this small package than in some of the marque's larger vehicles. There are four seats inside, though Toyota considers the iQ a 3+1 seater, as the fourth seat is suitable only for wee children. Production will begin shortly and vehicles will begin showing up in Europe at the start of the new year.

Gallery: Production Toyota iQ


[Source: Toyota]

Pics Aplenty: the production Toyota iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>european iqeuropean toyota iqEuropeanIqEuropeanToyotaIqiqproduction iqProductionIqtoyota iqToyotaIqFri, 05 Sep 2008 14:33:00 EST