Toyota unveiled the iQ Concept last September in Frankfurt and this week the automaker took the wraps off the production version of the small car.
The small iQ is less than three meters long and holds up to three adults with room for one small child or luggage.
According to Toyota the “i” stands for individuality, whilst at the same time also expressing “innovation” and “intelligence”. “Q” stands for “quality” and also suggesting that its “cubic” stature gives a “cue” to new value and lifestyle.
The iQ will be offered with the choice of either two gasoline engines or a diesel engine when it does on sale this fall. Toyota's goal is to sell 100,000 iQ's in its first full year.
Related Stories:
Geneva 2008 Preview: Production Ready Toyota iQ and Urban Cruiser Unveiled
Production Version of the Toyota IQ Will Show up in January 2009
Toyota Yaris SR Unveiled with a Removable TomTom Navigation
PRESS RELEASE:
World premiere of Toyota’s new urban car: the iQ
• Production version of the Concept C ar iQ premiered
• ‘J-Factor’ underpins iQ design
• Six unique space-saving engineering innovations represent a milestone in Toyota’s automotive engineering
• Revolutionary packaging concept provides ample space for a 3+1 seating configuration within a sub 3 metres length
• Small urban car with low emission engines and aerodynamics reduces environmental impact
• Manufacturing starts late 2008 with a global sales target of 100,000 vehicles for the first year of production
Design
World premiere of Toyota’s new urban car: the iQ
Toyota is world-premiering the production design of the new iQ at the Geneva Motor Show. First shown as the Concept Car iQ at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the iQ will go into production during late 2008.
The new iQ is a sophisticated car, representing the ultimate refined urban mode of transportation. Thanks to its ingenious and revolutionary packaging it measures less than three metres in length, yet has a flexible interior space that allows up to three adults, plus a child or luggage to travel comfortably.
The name iQ is the best representation of what the car embodies. “i” stands for individuality, whilst at the same time also expressing “innovation” and “intelligence”. “Q” stands for “quality” and also suggesting that its “cubic” stature gives a “cue” to new value and lifestyle.
The iQ delivers dynamism and stability despite its small size. It challenges conventional thinking through a design that is forward-looking, intelligent and energetic, while retaining clarity of purpose and function.
The marvel of the iQ’s ingenuity is in its revolutionary packaging, which is the result of six space-saving but inter-linked engineering innovations that represent a break-through in Toyota’s automotive vehicle development.
“The iQ story started a few years ago when we at Toyota began thinking of the environmental impact of automobiles. We came to the conclusion that, in order to ensure a sustainable future, there was a need for a radical change in vehicle packaging. We needed to create a break-through, away from the traditional belief that small is basic. Our answer to this is Toyota iQ,” says Kazuo Okamoto, Executive Vice President, in charge of Research and Development at Toyota Motor Corporation.
The iQ is designed to cater for the needs of buyers who seek more than just urban mobility but demand space and refinement in an environmentally-friendly vehicle.
J-Factor design
The design of the new iQ has its origin in Japan with J-Factor influences at its core. Toyota explains J-Factor as that aspect of Japanese originality and quality that creates modern, attractive, and globally appealing products from the apparent disharmony and contradictory nature of its original components. Expressions such as ’small yet spacious’, ‘high-tech yet human’ and ‘emotional yet functional’ are all examples of what Toyota calls J-Factor.
Although iQ is less than three metres in length, measuring 2,985mm precisely, it has a spacious interior. And while the ingenious packaging requires hi-tech solutions, the human appeal is in the requirement to meet intelligent urban transportation needs.
Drawing inspiration from J-Factor, Toyota has developed a unique design language called Vibrant Clarity. Vibrant Clarity is the key to answering the long-standing paradox of designing vehicles that are both energised and dynamic, but at the same time rational and ingenious. The word Vibrant represents a more forward-looking, vital nature that expresses the feeling of energy.
Clarity symbolises all that is fresh, clean and simple, stressing the rational aspect in the design equation - keeping the design crisp, the functionality intact and ensuring that the concept is easily understandable.This Vibrant Clarity design philosophy infuses cars with an emotional intensity that is uniquely identifiable as a Toyota.
The iQ contains three key elements of Vibrant Clarity design
Perfect imbalance of proportions: a simple and daring exterior with a strong contrast between the stable and robust stance provided by the iQ’s width and the shortness of its overall length.
Integrated component architecture where each unit contributes to the overall design: the structure around the tyres forms part of the minimal front and rear overhangs, a synergy that conveys both strength and agility.
Freeform geometrics: the exterior surfaces are almost mathematical in their cleanliness and precision, but also possess movement and emotion to make the design fresh and contemporary.
Robust yet refined styling for the iQ’s urban environment
The four wheels - placed at the extremities of each corner - give the iQ a self-assured ’super stance’. At just 2,985mm in length, but with a proportionally larger wheelbase of 2,000mm, the iQ is small in size, but unlike a small car possesses a confident on-road appearance.
The iQ’s robustness is further enhanced by the tough-looking bumpers. Strong vertical lines define the rear view of the iQ, while the bold rear lamp lenses are divided into three segments by horizontal lines, which help underpin the iQ’s strong presence. The iQ is fitted with 5-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels that confidently fill the bold wheel arches.
The exterior styling blends dynamism and stability: prominent crease lines define the high belt line while the V-line of the A-pillar creates tension across the wheel arches.
Smooth lines flow from the front bumpers, curve graciously up through the front pillars to meet the roof and sweep back down towards the rear hatch where they are replaced by edgier, well-defined lines.
From a rear three-quarter perspective the creative tension continues.
A seamless line runs from the edge of the roofline towards the B-pillar and curves around the deep rear glass area, before returning towards the rear hatch and then tailing off at the bold, geometrically-shaped wheel arches.
At the front of the car, smoked headlamp units are set deep into the bonnet and wings. Door mirrors with integrated turn indicators further reflect the iQ’s refined urban appeal.
Techno-organic theme for interior styling
The ‘on-the-edge’ exterior styling is replicated in the iQ’s refined interior architecture. By mathematically analysing and recreating the structural beauty of natural objects, Toyota has achieved a ‘techno-organic’ design which fuses geometric precision with inner beauty.
This is demonstrated in the floating ‘V’ centre console, which dominates the asymmetric dashboard. At the base of the V is a single dial that controls the functions of the air conditioning.
Situated within the arms of the V are cabin temperature controls with an LCD that displays airflow, twin face-level air vents and at the top a 5.8-inch colour touch screen satellite navigation display.
The V-design both separates and joins the two halves of the asymmetric dashboard design, while providing a visually appealing focus on the interior.
The steering wheel is flat-bottomed to provide the driver with greater legroom. Controls for audio are placed on the wheel to save space on the centre console and to offer a high-level of convenience for the driver.
Other techno-organic features include matt silver door handles with flowing manta-ray styling. While the ultra slim seatbacks are formed in a stylish one-piece moulding that enhances the edgy feel of the iQ and assist in freeing up additional passenger space.
A secret tray is neatly concealed below the rear seat, again providing more storage for passengers without sacrificing the cabin space. For more luggage capacity the 50/50 split rear seats can be separately folded flat to increase the available load area.
The interior is finished in rich chocolate-plum colour, which contrasts with the matt silver of the techno-organic architecture to provide an environment of urban sophistication.
Technology
Revolutionary engineering innovations create ingenious packaging solution
Creating more passenger space in such a compact vehicle was a key aim for Toyota’s design team. The iQ’s interior is surprisingly spacious. Six inter-linking engineering innovations are responsible for making this possible. Viewed together, these innovations represent a major milestone in Toyota’s vehicle development.
To achieve such a milestone required a drastically changed mindset. The engineers had to reconsider the very locations of various vehicle components rather than simply re-designing parts to a smaller size.
The result is a true break-through in ’small yet spacious’ packaging, which at the same time has been designed to meet the top 5-star safety rating of EURO NCAP.
The new Toyota iQ measures 2,985mm in length and 1,500mm in height, but the car’s compact ingenuity lies in its comparatively lengthy wheelbase of 2,000mm.
Newly developed differential saves engine compartment space
A newly developed differential allows the iQ to be built with short front overhangs, which result in a gain of over 100mm of additional length inside the passenger cabin area when compared to the B-segment Yaris.
Toyota’s ingenious solution to the differential is 3-fold: the under-bonnet area is made more compact; the front wheels can be placed at the very corners of the car, which drastically shortens the front overhang; and the passenger compartment can be increased.
Flat under-floor fuel tank with rear-angled shock absorbers
The design of the flat under-floor fuel tank has allowed the development of shorter rear overhangs, which contribute to the reduction of the car’s overall length.
Historically, a flat tank was considered difficult to engineer successfully because of the variance in fuel surface levels depending on the angle of the car.
However, persistent engineering efforts to downsize and find the optimal placement of functional parts have resulted in a flat fuel tank that creates significant space savings.
Smaller heater/air conditioning unit saves space
Toyota engineers have managed to significantly reduce the size of the heater/air conditioning unit without sacrificing performance output.
As a result of the size reduction the passenger-side area of the asymmetric dashboard can be moved forward and towards the windscreen base freeing up additional cabin space.
Asymmetric dashboard design and sliding seat configuration create more space
The iQ’s innovative asymmetric dashboard was designed to open up the passenger area.
The pushed-forward and step-like structure of the dashboard provides sufficient space for the front passenger when the seat is set at its most forward position while comfortably accomodating an adult in the rear seat.
Combined with shoulder-to-shoulder distance between driver and passenger of a similar volume to a C-segment vehicle, the unique 3+1 seating configuration creates enough room for three adults and, in addition, either a child or luggage behind the driver.
Centre take-off steering gear for compactness
Toyota has employed a centre take-off steering gear and positioned it higher in the engine bay. The gear, engine and differential could then be repositioned creating the iQ’s size-reduced front overhang.
Slim seat design for greater leg room
The slimness of the iQ seat backs release a further 40mm of rear passenger room at knee height so that rear passengers can sit more comfortably.
With an all-new frame structure and optimal adjustment of ancillary parts, the slimmer seat designs save space without sacrificing comfort.
New iQ drives Toyota’s green aims with low emission engines
Toyota has been pioneering in the continual search to reduce the car’s impact on the environment. Using technology as its cornerstone, Toyota has persistently sought new ideas and new inventions to make the car friendlier to the environment.
In addition to Toyota’s ongoing Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology innovations, the expansion of its small car range is integral to reducing environmental impact.
The new iQ, together with the Urban Cruiser also premiered at Geneva, plays a key role in Toyota’s drive to reduce emissions. Both cars are also an essential part of Toyota’s challenge to support the Japanese Automobile Manufacturers Association’s (JAMA) voluntary commitment of 140 grams per kilometre by 2009.
The iQ will have the choice of one of two petrol or one diesel engine. These engines - along with the compact design, low weight, and aerodynamic shape of the iQ - will contribute to outstanding fuel economy and exceptionally low CO2 emissions, which are anticipated to start at around 100g/km.
Production commences in late 2008
Production of the iQ will commence during late 2008. In the first full year of production, Toyota expects to reach 100,000 units globally.
Comments (60)
Smart car rip off.. Way to be creative Toyota.
Posted by Greg | March 5, 2008 10:08 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 22:08
So begins the clash between dignity and... something...
Posted by SEALBoy | March 5, 2008 10:10 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 22:10
Perhaps a quick reaction to Tata's Nano car which seems to have got a lot attention lately.
http://tatanano.inservices.tatamotors.com/tatamotors/
Posted by Nirav Patel | March 5, 2008 10:13 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 22:13
Can I have 7 of it?
Posted by RETNIAP | March 5, 2008 10:16 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 22:16
Can I have 7 of it?
Posted by RETNIAP | March 5, 2008 10:21 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 22:21
At least the speedo is in the right place. It'd be hella fast with the 2ZZ-GE engine out of the Celica GTS in it....
Posted by Brian | March 5, 2008 10:31 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 22:31
The speedo is in km/h... doesn't go above 120 in terms of mph I think...
Posted by SEALBoy | March 5, 2008 10:50 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 22:50
Eww
Posted by wayne gretzky | March 5, 2008 11:21 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 23:21
I think this is one of those Asia/European fads. I'd rather keep my SUV and get 8mpg.
Posted by John | March 5, 2008 11:42 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 23:42
I think it looks sweet.
I'd like info on the available engines/transmissions and the curb weight, though..
Posted by Tony | March 5, 2008 11:53 PM
Posted on March 5, 2008 23:53
This is a car for people with low IQ :)
Posted by European fad | March 6, 2008 1:24 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 01:24
John:
http://blog.coolz0r.com/images/hummerbig.jpg
Posted by John Chippy | March 6, 2008 1:31 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 01:31
European fad:
How original!!!
Posted by John Chippy | March 6, 2008 1:39 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 01:39
This is everything the Smart car isn't. If I was in the market for an ultra-compact, I'd take this over the Smart. However, I'll stick with a vehicle that seats more than one and can carry stuff, since I have a life.
Posted by Chmilz | March 6, 2008 2:23 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 02:23
John Chippy:
You're an asshole.
Posted by European fad | March 6, 2008 4:35 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 04:35
This thing is bite sized.
Posted by Chimpy | March 6, 2008 7:03 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 07:03
Now if only more commuters (male ones at least) could be persuaded that having a male organ and this car is more and better than not having it and drive an oversized, heavy, ugly, slow, guzling pckup or SUV as compensation.
But Toyota will definitely overcharge this one. Koreans and Chinese will need to start bulding these.
But even these little toys will become a headache since there will be so many of them on roads driven by new drivers in India, China,.. who never owned cars before. So more polution,..
Posted by Diesel | March 6, 2008 7:23 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 07:23
Now if only more commuters (male ones at least) could be persuaded that having a male organ and this car is more and better than not having it and drive an oversized, heavy, ugly, slow, guzling pckup or SUV as compensation.
But Toyota will definitely overcharge this one. Koreans and Chinese will need to start bulding these.
But even these little toys will become a headache since there will be so many of them on roads driven by new drivers in India, China,.. who never owned cars before. So more polution,..
Posted by Diesel | March 6, 2008 7:23 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 07:23
The smart car is a golf cart dressed up to look like a car. This at least looks like a real car.
Posted by bob | March 6, 2008 9:22 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 09:22
How about showing a picture with a 6 foot tall person sitting in it? It appears that the "foot room" stops at the leading edge of the door.
I think they've pretty much reached the point that they need to start selling them in sizes, like ... pants. Maybe the dealer can arrange the lot by inseam.
Posted by rod | March 6, 2008 9:58 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 09:58
this is a porta-cabin rolling toilet, isnt it?
Posted by low iq | March 6, 2008 9:58 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 09:58
Totally unsafe. It is safer to ride a bike, because you're more agile, braking and accelerating yourself out of trouble.
I'd love to see an F-250 rear ending this car. Wonder how the rear passenger (probably some moron's children) will look like after the crash. At least he will save about a grand a year in fuel cost...oops...maybe not even that much!
I'll gladly pass.
Posted by Sphere | March 6, 2008 10:38 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 10:38
I think most of the people bashing this car live in the country...and where gas prices haven't hit $4.00 a gallon...with diesel $.50 more. They will feel the pain soon enough. They also are apparently blind to our excessive population, especially noticeable on city streets with gridlock traffic and NO PARKING. Noone is saying to get rid of your gas-guzzler truck...in fact I'm a fanatic of sports cars. This car has its place too though. A good commuter car is more important than a giant F-250...which you don't buy for safety anyways. I know people are going to say "I actually use my truck for hauling and whatever"...some due but most don't. I would gladly use one of these things to get too and from work, and to find tiny parking places downtown...rather than watch the big SUVs and monster trucks take up the same space that two or three of these would. It also doesn't mean that I wouldn't have a "fun" car or truck at home for enjoyable driving or utility. I doubt most people will buy the iQ or smart car as their only car.
Posted by Mike M | March 6, 2008 11:08 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 11:08
I don't really understand the layout. 3 adults and one small child or luggage? Is this an asymetrical layout (doesn't look like it from the pictures).
I think the Honda Fit is probably about as small as is practical for small families. The iQ (notice the Scion-like name?) will be a commuter car that occasionally carries a passenger.
To me the styling isn't that bad. The back is attractive though the front could be improved.
Posted by Bruce Jackson | March 6, 2008 11:34 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 11:34
I agree with Mike M:. I like this car and I am hoping I can fit my 6'3" frame into one. I will still have my F-150 to drive around for camping or when I need to tote the crew somewhere, my 350Z and my Harley for fun... This one would be a cheap daily driver.
Posted by Layne C: | March 6, 2008 11:37 AM
Posted on March 6, 2008 11:37
How creative Toyota, an exact copy of the smart car.
Posted by jfelano | March 6, 2008 12:16 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 12:16
Scary to think that cars this size share the same roads and highways as H2's, Ginormous cadillac SUV's, and way-too-big pick up trucks, a lot of them piloted by jackasses blabbing on the phone while not observing fundamental driving skills.
Posted by mbw | March 6, 2008 1:14 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 13:14
I agree with MBW...I can't wait for the law here in Cali to go into effect this summer on cell phones. I think the fine should be more though since here in So Cal all the rich daddy's girls will still use their phones and cause accidents. I also wish the money would go to road repair...it will probably go into politicians' pockets. To echo what I said before though...people are thinking this car is designed for families and being compared to much larger cars. This car is designed as an "urban" car hence the article title. It can fit in tight spaces and get you too and from your job. Unless you are in construction or similar type jobs, how much crap do you bring to and from work anyways? I applaud Toyota and if I get a job with a commute, or in a crowded city, I'd definitely consider a car like this, Mini Cooper, or similar. For those that are afraid this will be sharing the roads with big trucks...unfortunately at the rate our country is falling apart it will be big trucks and SUVs sharing the road with nothing but these cars. I don't see how it is different than sharing the road with motorcycles and mopeds either.
Posted by Mike M | March 6, 2008 1:28 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 13:28
This is all bushs fault
Posted by zippy | March 6, 2008 1:54 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 13:54
What is 140g/km. Meaningless to me. Just another way Toyota talks a lot but avoids issues. Their sludge problem, or tailgates that crumple under load or brakes that don't work properly or hybrids that stall suddenly. No thanks I'll buy a real car not Japanese junk.
Posted by H. Mike | March 6, 2008 2:01 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 14:01
So maybe people should stop complaining that this is too small to be safe and start complaining that gigantor SUVs and trucks are too big for others to be safe. Maybe instead of having minimum safety standards for occupants, they should start having safety standards for those poor SOBs you hit when you can't stop your escelade in time.
Posted by gm0n3y | March 6, 2008 2:02 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 14:02
I wonder if Apple and Infinity are going to sue for trademark infringement on the name? :)
Like gm0n3y said, if more cars were this size then we wouldn't have to worry about SUV's crashing into them. Toyota needs to release one of these under the Lexus brand so some of the Cars=Status people would buy them instead of gas guzzling SUV's.
Posted by Gary | March 6, 2008 2:18 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 14:18
I think the Toyota IQ if price right will sell well here. The main advantage over the Smart ForTwo is that 3 people (4 in a pinch) can fit as compared to the Smart. Smart's other inherent problem is that its starting price places it squarely against more established C-class competitors.
Posted by longdxcommuter | March 6, 2008 3:15 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 15:15
Sphere,
actually, SUVs and pickups are shamefully unsafe inspite their size. All tests show that these midget cars are as safe or even safer. Get higher scores in crash tests.
In Europe, they have tested a few pickups in crash tests lately. They basically fall apart. They get 1, 2 or max 4 stars (Mitsubishi) . These small cars all get 4 and some even all 5 stars.
SUVs and pickups aren't safe. You would expect them to be given the size but they're not.
Posted by Diesel | March 6, 2008 3:31 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 15:31
Hot Damm !!!!!!!!!!
Now I can strap this Toyota on the back of my RV in place of the spare tire.
What a great invention.
Posted by Peanut | March 6, 2008 3:53 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 15:53
Nice to see other people here telling the truth about truck safety, not just me.
H. Mike: 140g/km is the amount of carbon emissions it produces. Thats highly relevant to you and everyone else in the world.
As far as Japanese cars: they've proven far more reliable than American cars in the past several decades, don't just believe consumer reports, believe overwhelming sales, studies showing lower repair bills and fewer defects in Japanese cars from major universities, and the fact that Japanese cars hold resale much better.
Posted by Allen | March 6, 2008 5:14 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 17:14
Well, my MR2 is not much bigger, but I'll keep it over that thing. Never quite figured out why cars these days all have to look like bricks.
On the upside, it'll be hilarious when Top Gear gets a hold of this thing for one of their "car soccer" games...
Posted by TSU | March 6, 2008 5:43 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 17:43
the wheel wells in the back take up to much space to use 2 rear seats so it only has 1. Nice looking little city runabout.
Posted by unknown | March 6, 2008 5:46 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 17:46
I honestly think the 3+1 config reflects the fact that the "normal" position for the driver's seat will be too far back for a full-sized passenger to sit behind it. The guy in the passenger seat can put his knees all the way to the firewall to make room, since he doesn't have to deal with the pedals/steering wheel (or apparently a glovebox). A single side-ways seat in the back with more leg room would be nicer in my opinion, but I suppose that doesn't meets safety standards.
Regardless, I think the claim of "ample space for a 3+1 seating" is a stretch. It may be a great car for what it is, but it looks like a cramped 2+2 to me. Maybe they're hoping that will be the thing to distinguish it from the smart for2.
Posted by Rod | March 6, 2008 6:22 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 18:22
Wow this little POS hit a nerve with the fringe.
Conceptually I have no problem with this little thing I would never own one. It would thin out the population a little in the US though. Also why isn't this pure electric, they might have something then?
Posted by RX-7 Guy | March 6, 2008 10:02 PM
Posted on March 6, 2008 22:02
Does this mean it will sell in the US?
Posted by shack | March 7, 2008 12:11 AM
Posted on March 7, 2008 00:11
Diesel:
Now if only more commuters (male ones at least) could be persuaded that having a male organ and this car is more and better.
This is the crux of this car's problem. I am 26, male and american. I could not be paid to drive this. To me it has totally no attraction.
I dont want an SUV, but I do want a V8 powered car that I can enjoy.
And the best way to reduce co2/km is for a) people to ride their bikes more and rely on their cars less, ad b) for the environmental gasbags to shut up and study some real science.
Posted by stahlight | March 7, 2008 5:24 PM
Posted on March 7, 2008 17:24
Stahlight:
That is the very point of this car. No one expects you to own only this vehicle for all your needs. It exists so that your V8 fun toy can sit at home while you fight with gridlock downtown in this thing. While idling, sitting at a red light, or waiting for some old lady to cross the street while downtown, this little thing will burn less gas and produce less co2/km than your v8 fun car. Besides, why would you want to subject your fun and probably much more expensive car to idling and city traffic/parking? That V8 is meant for weekends or evenings, picking up friends and having fun. The Toyota IQ is made for that Monday morning as you sit there on Bank Street glaring at the clock hoping to get to work on time.
If you are too self conscious to be seen in this car, it sounds like a personal problem.. People that judge others based on the cars they drive *especially their commuter cars* have issues.
Posted by Garret | March 8, 2008 10:24 AM
Posted on March 8, 2008 10:24
"And the best way to reduce co2/km is for a) people to ride their bikes more and rely on their cars less, ad b) for the environmental gasbags to shut up and study some real science."
I highly doubt that you looked at the real science and have any idea of what it says about the issue.
I'll give you a hint, "Inconvenient Truth" is not real science, "Global Warming Swindle" is not real science, blogs and popular newspaper opinion pieces aren't science either. Try "peer-reviewed" as a keyword.
Posted by Alex Greene | March 8, 2008 9:40 PM
Posted on March 8, 2008 21:40
Wow.. I guess I should be too cool to drive one, too.
Posted by Tony | March 9, 2008 11:24 AM
Posted on March 9, 2008 11:24
Peer reviewed is a joke as well, as a member of the IEEE, the quality of peer reviewed journals is almost as pathetic as the internet drivel. It's a sad day for science in general. But I digress.
@ Garret:
The real problem with this (and many other) cars is I can't afford 2 cars. So the option of having a 'fun' car for weekends isn't for me. I am also one of the few lucky bastards that lives 10 minutes from work. 15 on a bad day.
Posted by stahlight | March 10, 2008 3:49 PM
Posted on March 10, 2008 15:49
do Japanese designers know that there are people on this world over 5'5"?
Posted by SVT | March 10, 2008 4:38 PM
Posted on March 10, 2008 16:38
stahlight:
Anyone can claim to be a member of IEEE/NASA/whatever over the Internet. It doesn't make your statement any more credible.
Comparing peer-reviewed material to the Internet drivel is ridiculous. Science reviewed by other scientists in the relevant field vs teenager or hired journalist with a computer/keyboard. Pleease...
Posted by Alex Greene | March 10, 2008 7:55 PM
Posted on March 10, 2008 19:55
So what are my chances of living if I get rear-ended by a F250 in this thing?
Posted by Tommy Boy | March 11, 2008 3:50 PM
Posted on March 11, 2008 15:50
@ Tommy
"So what are my chances of living if I get rear-ended by a F250 in this thing"
I'd say they are very dim.
Posted by Sphere | March 12, 2008 11:16 AM
Posted on March 12, 2008 11:16
Smart For Two is rated 4 stars for most crash tests. I'd expect similar performance from this little car. Bigger != safer.
Posted by Alex Greene | March 12, 2008 6:51 PM
Posted on March 12, 2008 18:51
BRING IT ON TO THE USofA...... I'd buy one today if it was available..... LUV the car!!
Posted by terrywayne | April 8, 2008 9:37 AM
Posted on April 8, 2008 09:37
ok fellas.....what the hell is the damn price !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by denise | April 21, 2008 12:52 PM
Posted on April 21, 2008 12:52
Way to go Toyota. This is the reality of what is coming from the future. We need to save energy, produce less pollution and be more realistic. Stop the BO of big cars, big engines driven by small brain people. Look the comments and you will see lots of it!
Posted by Charles Serra | April 30, 2008 9:30 PM
Posted on April 30, 2008 21:30
Way to go Toyota. This is the reality of what is coming from the future. We need to save energy, produce less pollution and be more realistic. Stop the BO of big cars, big engines driven by small brain people. Look the comments and you will see lots of it!
Posted by Charles Serra | April 30, 2008 9:30 PM
Posted on April 30, 2008 21:30
Any car that comes out thats pretty much the same size and shape as the smart people are gonna think is a rip off but other brands are going to have to make similar cars in order to compete in that section of the market thats what they are all about. Its an ok styling of the car dont really like the headlights that much but the interior is by far better than the smart in my opinion
Posted by Taber | June 28, 2008 6:37 PM
Posted on June 28, 2008 18:37
This is no rip-off!! I say to the American car companies "GET A CLUE!!!" While sales drop off drastically and unemployment rises in the American car industry to the tune of billions of dollars... Toyota, Mercedes, Tata(India), Honda and others have long since seen the wave of small efficient autos and, what's this... are ready to sell them to a failing US economy? The "rip off" is the American car industry selling us fat, greedy, useless iron for decades.
Kill your SUV and get a motorcycle or an IQ. 20+ Billion people in Europe and the far East can't be that wrong!!!
Posted by John | July 6, 2008 6:57 PM
Posted on July 6, 2008 18:57
If image is your top priority in life, and size/power makes you feel better than the rest, then don't buy this car. This car is only for people who put practicality first in this time of economic difficulty.
Posted by joe | August 5, 2008 11:22 AM
Posted on August 5, 2008 11:22
can you tell me what the projected miles per gallon will be on the new toyota iq car, i don't see that info in the above news story.
Posted by timothy chastain | October 18, 2008 10:42 AM
Posted on October 18, 2008 10:42
its around 40+ mpg for the non US version. everywhere else it should be around 40+ MPG.
Posted by TrainRekS | October 18, 2008 6:07 PM
Posted on October 18, 2008 18:07