The Grin
The iQ makes use of a CVT automatic transmission and a 1.3-litre, 4-cylinder engine that develops 94 horsepower and 89 lb.-ft of torque. In addition, the gearbox is electronically stepped so that it feels as if there are gears at work, and includes both sport and braking modes. Sport changes the lockup pattern of the CVT for a more aggressive response to throttle inputs. Braking mode keeps the transmission running about 2,000 rpm higher than normal, thus producing significant engine braking.
MacPherson struts up front and a twist beam axle in the rear are well calibrated. The suspension is compliant on the highway, soaking up all but the harshest of broken pavement ruts, bumps and potholes.
In order to minimize turning radius and maximize agility, the steering rack has been raised nearly 20 cm and a strut tower brace helps keep the front on track. Making a U-turn on the narrowest of streets is not an issue, nor is getting in and out of a tight parking space.
Top speed is listed as 160 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h is said to take 11.8 seconds. When combined, these numbers point to a car that can cruise comfortably at highway speeds, merge comfortably and have enough juice left for adequate passing distances. In town, it means being able to get the jump on most others at the stoplight and being able to keep up with traffic.
Innovative Safety
Standard in every Scion iQ is what Toyota calls their Star Safety System. Part of that system is airbag technology and this where the iQ really leads the way, with a rear window airbag to protect back-seat occupants’ heads, which is a world first.
In addition, the front seat cushion thigh bolster has an airbag in it to lift your knees, getting you in the proper seating position to prevent submarining out of the seat belt. When you add in the front, side and side-impact airbags, the total in the car is eleven.
The iQ Test
Scion admits that this is not the car for everyone, but believes that everyone should take one for a drive to find out. With a base price of $16,760 and the size of grin this urban transport machine put on my face, I have to agree.
The iQ makes use of a CVT automatic transmission and a 1.3-litre, 4-cylinder engine that develops 94 horsepower and 89 lb.-ft of torque. In addition, the gearbox is electronically stepped so that it feels as if there are gears at work, and includes both sport and braking modes. Sport changes the lockup pattern of the CVT for a more aggressive response to throttle inputs. Braking mode keeps the transmission running about 2,000 rpm higher than normal, thus producing significant engine braking.
 |
| The iQ makes use of a CVT automatic transmission and a 94-horsepower, 4-cylinder engine. (Photo: Charles Renny/Auto123.com) |
MacPherson struts up front and a twist beam axle in the rear are well calibrated. The suspension is compliant on the highway, soaking up all but the harshest of broken pavement ruts, bumps and potholes.
In order to minimize turning radius and maximize agility, the steering rack has been raised nearly 20 cm and a strut tower brace helps keep the front on track. Making a U-turn on the narrowest of streets is not an issue, nor is getting in and out of a tight parking space.
Top speed is listed as 160 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h is said to take 11.8 seconds. When combined, these numbers point to a car that can cruise comfortably at highway speeds, merge comfortably and have enough juice left for adequate passing distances. In town, it means being able to get the jump on most others at the stoplight and being able to keep up with traffic.
Innovative Safety
Standard in every Scion iQ is what Toyota calls their Star Safety System. Part of that system is airbag technology and this where the iQ really leads the way, with a rear window airbag to protect back-seat occupants’ heads, which is a world first.
In addition, the front seat cushion thigh bolster has an airbag in it to lift your knees, getting you in the proper seating position to prevent submarining out of the seat belt. When you add in the front, side and side-impact airbags, the total in the car is eleven.
The iQ Test
Scion admits that this is not the car for everyone, but believes that everyone should take one for a drive to find out. With a base price of $16,760 and the size of grin this urban transport machine put on my face, I have to agree.
 |
| Scion admits that this is not the car for everyone, but believes that everyone should take one for a drive. (Photo: Charles Renny/Auto123.com) |
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