Prelaunch Test-Drive the New IQ Sept 6th… in Japan!

Tokyo, Aug 21, 2008 (Jiji Press) - Toyota Motor Corp.  will hold test-driving events for its fuel-efficient iQ microcar at three locations in Japan next month, ahead of its planned release in Japan and Europe later in the year.  Read more at japancorp.net

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There is many people in the industry that are predicting that the Toyota IQ will come to the US market as a scion.  Here is an article that breaks down many of the space saving features of the new IQ car and predicts that it will become a Scion.  Read The Full Article Here >>>

“Will Toyota introduce the iQ to the US market? There is a glimmer of hope.

Toyota thinks it could be a good fit for its Scion brand. Unfortunately, if Toyota decides to bring the iQ to the US, it won’t be for at least two years.

I think Toyota could sell every Scion iQ it imports.”

In an Article From Stuff, we found this little nugget.  It gives some hard dimensions and touches on few features and innovations that Toyota will be including with the IQ.

“But Toyota will beat both makers to the punch with its new iQ model, which is slated to go into production towards the end of 2008. The iQ measures 2985mm and has a 2000mm wheelbase, yet Toyota claims it will seat four due to space saving innovations in packaging.

These include a flat fuel tank under the floor with angled rear shock absorbers, a newly developed differential that allows short frontal overhangs and a small heater and air conditioning unit. There are also sliding passenger seats, and an asymmetric dashboard that provides more room for the front passenger by allowing the seat to be moved forward.

Toyota hasn’t said what engines will power the iQ, however the company has said that there will be the choice of petrol and diesel power units that, combined with the car’s low weight and aerodynamic efficiency, should lead to emissions in the region of 100g/km of CO2.

Toyota estimates it will produce 100,000 units of the iQ in the first full year of production.”

The high MPG craze is in full fury! This if from an article at Auto Express.

“Two of the most important new cars ever are about to ‘bubble’ to the surface – and in a world exclusive head-to-head, Auto Express has brought them together for the first time!

These are the clearest illustrations yet of BMW’s new Isetta and its sister, the Fiat Topolino. They are the result of a new deal between the two firms, which will also be extended to include next-generation versions of the MINI and Alfa Romeo MiTo.

The Isetta and Topolino are crucial to BMW and Fiat’s attempts to reduce the overall CO2 emissions of their ranges – but they will also offer buyers 100mpg fuel returns!”

Full Article Link

This article from hybridcars.com is forecasting a US launch just after its planned European introduction In January 2009.

“The race may now be set not to go to the swift, but the small. Toyota, evidently spurred by the positive reception to Daimler’s Smart car, is planning to bring its iQ model to America soon after it’s introduced in Japan this November, and Europe next January…” full article at hybridcars.com