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USA: Scion announced today that its
2012 iQ premium micro-subcompact will begin arriving in
dealerships this October. The Scion iQ is only 10 feet long yet
seats four people, making it the world's smallest four-seater.
"Scion prides itself on being an innovative brand with a lineup
of iconic vehicles that set automotive trends," said Jack
Hollis, vice president of Scion. "The iQ is the fourth vehicle
in the family, and it will define the premium micro-subcompact
segment as the choice for new urbanites who want clever
transportation without a sacrifice in style or new features."
Meeting the needs of a new
trendsetting generation of urban drivers, the iQ succeeds at
taking big ideas and concentrating them into a small package.
Made possible by intelligent and functional packaging, the iQ is
a small car that offers the functionality and comfort that
drivers expect from a car twice its size.
Intelligent Design, Not
Sacrifice
Instead of sacrificing features or comfort to reduce its
footprint, the iQ relies on intelligent design. Six engineering
innovations are responsible for the iQ's ability to be small in
size, but large in capability. A compact front-mounted
differential, high-mount steering rack with electronic
power-steering, and a compact air-conditioning unit all amount
to significant decreases in front-end length. In addition, the
iQ is equipped with a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor
that reduces rear overhang. Slim-back front seats optimize rear
legroom, while the "3+1" offset seating arrangement allows one
adult to sit behind the front passenger and a child or small
package behind the driver.
Driving Performance of a
Larger Car
With a 78.7-inch wheelbase and a unique suspension design -
consisting of MacPherson struts up front, and a compact torsion
beam rear suspension - the three-door hatchback can deftly
maneuver through city traffic. In addition, its overall length
of only 120.1-inches, and short front and rear overhangs allows
the iQ to fit into virtually any urban parking scenario.
Although short in length, the iQ has a wide stance at
66.1-inches, giving it a confident stance that handles like a
much larger car.
Smooth Drivetrain and Better
Fuel Efficiency
The 2012 iQ is equipped with a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine
that produces 94 horsepower and 89 lb.-ft of torque. It features
the latest dual VVT-i, which allows the engine to be efficient,
providing a broader powerband yet requiring less fuel and
generating fewer emissions.
The engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
that helps deliver smooth acceleration and excellent fuel
efficiency. The iQ is rated an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II)
and achieves an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating of 37
miles per gallon, comparable to similar vehicles of its size.
Small in Size but Big on
Safety
In order to be considered a premium micro-subcompact, the iQ
comes standard with safety features that drivers expect and
demand. The iQ is packed with an industry leading 11 standard
airbags, including the world's first rear window airbag. Other
airbags include driver- and front-passenger airbags; driver- and
front-passenger seatmounted side airbags; side curtain airbags;
driver- and front-passenger knee airbags; and a Scion-first
driver- and front-passenger seat-cushion airbags.
All iQs will come standard with
the Star Safety SystemTM, which includes antilock Brakes (ABS),
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA),
Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and
Smart Stop Technology brake-override. A tire-pressure monitoring
system is also standard equipment.
Iconic Styling |
