Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Scion iQ to hit dealerships in March 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/05/scion-iq-to-hit-dealerships-in-march-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/05/scion-iq-to-hit-dealerships-in-march-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/05/scion-iq-to-hit-dealerships-in-march-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aol originalaoloriginaliqscionscion iqscion iq conceptScionIqScionIqConcepttoyotatoyota iqToyotaIqThu, 05 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19583091/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/05/scion-iq-to-hit-dealerships-in-march-2011/19583091/article-detail.xml 19583091 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadsciontcny2010iqlive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadsciontcny2010iqlive.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Tesla CTO confirms building two mules for Toyota]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/11/report-tesla-cto-confirms-building-two-mules-for-toyota/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/11/report-tesla-cto-confirms-building-two-mules-for-toyota/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/11/report-tesla-cto-confirms-building-two-mules-for-toyota/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tesla Roadster

AutoblogGreen had the rare opportunity on Friday to chat with Toyota CEO and president Akio Toyoda. During the conversation, he revealed that a prototype vehicle with a Tesla electric drive unit was under construction. Tesla's Chief Technology Officer, J.B. Straubel, has confirmed this to CNN Money, saying that the Silicon Valley company is indeed preparing two mule vehicles for Toyota. Tesla battery packs, power electronics and motors are being installed into Toyota bodies.

Straubel expects to deliver the vehicles to Toyota by the end of of this month. Toyota officials told ABG that the initial plan is to just test the performance and durability of the Tesla packs to determine whether they meet Toyota standards. If Toyota proceeds with a production program using a Tesla-style battery (employing small laptop-type cells) it will be for a new vehicle, not the iQ-based EV arriving in 2012.

[Source: CNN Money]

Report: Tesla CTO confirms building two mules for Toyota originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jul 2010 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Akio ToyodaAkioToyodajb straubelJbStraubelTeslatesla batteriestesla batterytesla battery packtesla motorstesla toyotatesla toyota evtesla toyota partnershiptesla-motorsTeslaBatteriesTeslaBatteryTeslaBatteryPackTeslaMotorsTeslaToyotaTeslaToyotaEvTeslaToyotaPartnershiptoyotatoyota iqToyotaIqSun, 11 Jul 2010 15:35:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19549531/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/11/report-tesla-cto-confirms-building-two-mules-for-toyota/19549531/article-detail.xml 19549531 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/tesladrive12801_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/tesladrive12801.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota iQ N-Collection by Neuhaus gives Germans their chocolate fix]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/toyota-iq-n-collection-by-neuhaus-gives-germans-their-chocolate/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/toyota-iq-n-collection-by-neuhaus-gives-germans-their-chocolate/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/toyota-iq-n-collection-by-neuhaus-gives-germans-their-chocolate/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Toyota iQ N-Collection - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've seen no lack of superminis specially outfitted by fashion labels, from the the Citroen DS3 by Yves Saint Laurent and the Mini Clubman by Agent Provocateur to the Fiat 500 by Diesel and Lancia Ypsilon by Versus. This, however, is another story altogether.

Toyota's European operations has teamed up with Belgian chocolatiers Neuhaus to come up with the special-edition iQ N-Collection. Limited to just 700 units, the Neuhaus edition city car comes in two flavors: Chocolate brown or cream butter, each with correspondingly delicious interiors and the requisite special badging. The car that looks tastier than the Aston Martin Cygnet and which could be the perfect dessert to follow the Oscar Meyer weinermobile, although the tasty duo is currently only available in Germany. Pricing comes in at for 14,600 euros (~$19,500), or about 1700 euros more than a base iQ with the same 1.0-liter VVT engine


Gallery: Toyota iQ N-Collection


[Source: OmniAuto (translated)]

Toyota iQ N-Collection by Neuhaus gives Germans their chocolate fix originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chocolateiqneuhausspecial editionSpecialEditiontoyotatoyota iqtoyota iq n-collectionToyotaIqToyotaIqN-collectionFri, 26 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19414376/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/26/toyota-iq-n-collection-by-neuhaus-gives-germans-their-chocolate/19414376/article-detail.xml 19414376 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/web630toyota-iq-n-collection1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/web630toyota-iq-n-collection1.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Toyota to offer hybrid Scion iQ in sedan, five-door]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/report-toyota-to-offer-hybrid-scion-iq-in-sedan-five-door/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/report-toyota-to-offer-hybrid-scion-iq-in-sedan-five-door/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/report-toyota-to-offer-hybrid-scion-iq-in-sedan-five-door/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iQiQ hatchbackiQ HybridiQ hybrid five-dooriQ hybrid five-door hatchbackiQ Hybrid Hatchbackiq Hybrid SedanIqHatchbackIqHybridIqHybridFive-doorIqHybridFive-doorHatchbackIqHybridHatchbackIqHybridSedanScionScion iQScion iQ HybridScionIqScionIqHybridToyotaToyota iQToyotaIqThu, 07 Jan 2010 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19306252/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/07/report-toyota-to-offer-hybrid-scion-iq-in-sedan-five-door/19306252/article-detail.xml 19306252 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/630scioniq_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/630scioniq.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: Want an Aston Martin Cygnet? You'll need to have a big boy Aston first]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/29/report-want-an-aston-martin-cygnet-youll-need-to-have-a-big-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/29/report-want-an-aston-martin-cygnet-youll-need-to-have-a-big-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/29/report-want-an-aston-martin-cygnet-youll-need-to-have-a-big-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Aston Martin Cygnet - Click above for high-res image gallery

There are few automakers on earth as exclusive as Aston Martin, so we were more than a little surprised when the English exoticmaker announced it was going to build the Cygnet, a city car based on the prosaic Toyota iQ. After all, we chastise automakers for rebadging all the time, but Ford, Honda and General Motors products don't have anywhere near the exclusivity of Aston Martin. Then there is the Cygnet's reported $35,000 price tag. Some Aston purists were a little taken back by the "modest" $120,000 price tag of the V8 Vantage, so a $35,000 Toyota with a Rapide grille probably won't go over well with more than a few loyalists.

The New York Times has shed a little light on the subject, reporting that only owners of full-sized Astons will be eligible to purchase the Cygnet. Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez said in the winter issue of Aston Martin magazine that "this concept is akin to an exclusive tender for a luxury yacht." If that doesn't make sense to you non-yacht owners, think of it as a 105 mph golf cart for Aston owners.

To further help the Cygnet stay exclusive, Aston only plans to build 2,000 copies of the iQ-based city car and there are no current plans to sell the mini car in the U.S. market, so it might be fair to say this is a bit of a commuter special for Londonites. Even still, while this novel sales plan may help to mitigate potential brand degredation that Cygnet skeptics suggest it may bring about, we can't help but wonder how the thousands of non-Cygnet toting Aston owners will feel about their favored brand dipping a foot into the House of Toyota.


Gallery: Aston Martin Cygnet


[Source: The New York Times]

REPORT: Want an Aston Martin Cygnet? You'll need to have a big boy Aston first originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinaston martin cygnetAstonMartinAstonMartinCygnetcity carCityCartoyota iqToyotaIqTue, 29 Dec 2009 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19296897/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/29/report-want-an-aston-martin-cygnet-youll-need-to-have-a-big-b/19296897/article-detail.xml 19296897 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/cygnet-frt-1-1260968139_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/cygnet-frt-1-1260968139_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin shows off completed Cygnet, Euro sales in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/aston-martin-shows-off-the-completed-cygnet-euro-sales-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/aston-martin-shows-off-the-completed-cygnet-euro-sales-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/aston-martin-shows-off-the-completed-cygnet-euro-sales-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Aston Martin Cygnet - Click above for high-res image gallery

Earlier this year, we saw photos of Aston Martin designers working on a clay-covered Toyota iQ in the studio and applying typical Aston styling cues to it. Creating a leather clad urban commuter car struck us as a dubious proposition for an upscale brand like Aston Martin, but nevertheless the Cygnet is now complete and Aston has released a fresh batch of photos.

While the Aston Martin face is well suited to the extended nose of a DBS or Rapide, we think it looks more than a bit overwrought on the front of the tiny Toyota. On the inside, virtually all of the available surfaces have been covered in red and black premium leather. For the time being, the Cygnet is a concept only, but Aston says it hopes to have it in production in 2010 for European and UK customers. There's no word yet on price, but in the meantime, you can check out our high-res gallery below and brief press release after the jump.


Gallery: Aston Martin Cygnet


[Source: Aston Martin]

Continue reading Aston Martin shows off completed Cygnet, Euro sales in 2010

Aston Martin shows off completed Cygnet, Euro sales in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Aston Martin2011 Aston Martin Cygnet2011AstonMartin2011AstonMartinCygnetastonaston martinAston Martin CygnetAston Martin Cygnet conceptAstonMartinAstonMartinCygnetAstonMartinCygnetConceptCygnetmicrocarSmart fortwoSmartFortwotoyotatoyota iqToyotaIqWed, 16 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19283270/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/16/aston-martin-shows-off-the-completed-cygnet-euro-sales-in-2010/19283270/article-detail.xml 19283270 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/cygnet-frt-1-1260968139_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/cygnet-frt-1-1260968139_opt.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19185706/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/07/aston-martin-cygnet-nee-toyota-iq-to-hit-european-city-streets/19185706/article-detail.xml 19185706 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/58032ast_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/58032ast_opt.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19147192/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/01/frankfurt-preview-lexus-lf-ch-joins-toyota-auris-hybrid-plug-i/19147192/article-detail.xml 19147192 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/lexus-lfch_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/lexus-lfch.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19145812/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/08/31/rumormill-bmw-in-talks-to-use-iq-platform-for-future-models-to/19145812/article-detail.xml 19145812 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/toyota-iq_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/toyota-iq.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19101068/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/07/17/video-toyota-iq-small-car-font-jockey/19101068/article-detail.xml 19101068 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/iq-font-580x_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/iq-font-580x.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19080927/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/29/report-scion-iq-headed-for-america-by-early-2011-with-a-few-cha/19080927/article-detail.xml 19080927 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/009_scioniqyc_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/009_scioniqyc_opt.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19081120/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/29/report-aston-martin-cygnet-adds-a-smart-set-of-clothes-to-the-t/19081120/article-detail.xml 19081120 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/58032ast_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/58032ast_opt.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19071447/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/18/toyota-ups-the-small-car-score-with-the-iq-sup-3-sup-iq-cubed/19071447/article-detail.xml 19071447 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/57978toy580op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/57978toy580op.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1505148/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/04/01/spy-shot-scion-iq-concept-caught-before-new-york-unveiling/1505148/article-detail.xml 1505148 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/iq-crop-bit-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/iq-crop-bit-1.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1491686/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/03/18/scion-confirms-new-concept-car-headed-for-new-york/1491686/article-detail.xml 1491686 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/toyota_iq_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/toyota_iq.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1464945/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/02/19/tiny-toyota-iq-registers-5-star-ncap-performance/1464945/article-detail.xml 1464945 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/iq_580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/iq_580.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1446271/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/31/hyundai-planning-toyota-iq-rival/1446271/article-detail.xml 1446271 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/hyundai_green_baby_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/hyundai_green_baby.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1405794/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/12/19/toyota-working-on-yaris-sized-7-seater/1405794/article-detail.xml 1405794 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/12/yar_7st_250op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/12/yar_7st_250op.jpg <![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 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1382994/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/11/25/rendered-speculation-toyota-iq-convertible/1382994/article-detail.xml 1382994 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/11/toyota_iq-vert_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/11/toyota_iq-vert.jpg <![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.

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