Tuesday, December 14, 2010

2011 Scion iQ Production Model Debuts at New York Auto Show


Toyota today unveiled the working class version of the Aston Martin Cygnet North American version of its iQ mini that will be marketed under the Scion brand in the United States at the New York Auto Show.
With the exception of the darkened headlamps and tail lamps, and the newly designed front bumper with modified upper and lower grilles, Scion's model is identical to the Toyota iQ sold in other regions of the world including Europe.
With an overall length of only 120.1-inches (more than 30-in. shorter than the Toyota Yaris), width of 66.1-inches and a 78.7-inch wheelbase, the iQ is the smallest model in the Toyota Group's North American lineup.
Available exclusively as a three-door hatchback, the iQ has seating for 3+1 in an asymmetrical configuration with the driver's and front-passenger's seats being slightly off set. The golf-kart's car's rear seats feature a 50/50 split and the ability to fold flat, creating enough space -according to Toyota- to accommodate up to two golf bags.
Like its European twin, the 2011 iQ is offered with a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces over 90 horsepower and is combined with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Toyota said that it expects the iQ to achieve a combined fuel economy in the high 30s (mpg).
According to the Japanese automaker, the iQ will come standard with 10 SRS airbags a six-speaker audio system with USB and auxiliary ports. Active safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Traction Control (TRAC).
The iQ will go on sale in the States in early 2011, with prices to be announced closer to launch.