AutoGuide.com News » 2011 scion iQ

2011 Scion iQ and tC Get Time-Lapse Photography Treatment [video]

Colum Wood — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 19:00:33 +0000

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Last week Scion took the wraps off not one, but two all-new models at the New York Auto Show, the tiny iQ and sporty 2011 tC. We brought you plenty of photos and all the details on both new cars, and now we have some very cool video to share courtesy our friend Peter Tarach, the editor of Modified Mag. He decided to edit together enough of his photos for a time-lapse video of the Scion booth, including the new tC, iQ and two modified versions of the cars, built by Five-Axis.

For anyone who missed the coverage, the iQ is in fact a production model and Scion claims its the smallest four-seater in the world. At just 120-inches long it is roughly one-foot longer than the Smart fortwo. Referred to by Scion as a “premium micro sub compact” it is powered by a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder and gets a CVT transmission. No performance or fuel economy numbers are available, but Scion says to expect fuel economy in the high-30 mpg range. And in Europe, that engine makes 99-hp.

As for the tC, it might not look all that different from the previous generation car, but it has changed enough and features a more potent engine. Under the hood there’s a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that makes 180-hp (19 more than the previous model) and 173 ft-lbs of torque (11 more than the previous model). Paired with either a six-speed automatic with sequential-shift manual shifting or a traditional six-speed manual, Scion claims the new engine will also be more fuel efficient – although no fuel economy estimates have been provided. In addition, the car gets a new exhaust setup that was designed to deliver a more aggressive sound. Helping to improve handling is a new platform with MacPherson front struts and a double-wishbone rear. Overall, the car sits lower and gets some big 18-inch wheels. The brakes have also been upgraded to deliver improved stopping power, with bigger rotors at each corner. A new electronic steering system is also used, which not only helps save fuel (by not being a drain on the engine) but also works to deliver a more precise feel. For 2011, the tC also includes important safety features like Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control. Inside, Scion has taken the car more up-market with a VW-esque feel, that includes a thick flat-bottom steering wheel, nicely bolstered seats and a sporty yet simple gauge cluster. A panoramic moonroof remains standard on the tC.

The tC is set to go on sale later this year, with iQ sales beginning in early 2011.

For more on the all-new Scion iQ, visit the iQ forums here iQ-Forums.com

GALLERY: 2011 Scion tC

GALLERY: 2011 Scion iQ

New York 2010: Scion iQ Debuts as a Mini-er and Smart-er Alternative

Colum Wood — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 18:06:49 +0000

Scion has just revealed the production model iQ at the New York Auto Show, which the company claims is the smallest four-seater in the world. At just 120-inches long it is roughly one-foot longer than the Smart fortwo. Saying it’s a 4-seater is a bit of a stretch, however, and Scion does qualify that it’s more of a 3+1, with the “1″ being a child.

Referred to by Scion as a “premium micro sub compact” the iQ is powered by a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder and gets a CVT transmission. No performance or fuel economy numbers are available, but Scion says to expect fuel economy in the high-30 mpg range.

Scion also wants to highlight the car’s safety features, with standard abs, vehicle stability control traction control and 10 airbags – including a world’s first rear window curtain airbag.

Qnd keeping with Scion’s youth-oriented approach with a six-speaker audio system, USB and auxiliary ports, as well as steering wheel mounted controls.

The iQ will go on sale as a 2011 model starting early next year.

GALLERY: 2011 Scion iQ

GALLERY 2011 Scion iQ Official Photos

For more in the new Scion iQ, visit iQ-Forums.com

Oficial release after the jump:

PRESS RELEASE

Scion Unveils a New Dimension at the New York Auto Show with All-New 2011 iQ and tC Production Models

NEW YORK (March 31, 2010) – A New Dimension of Scion was unveiled today with two new production vehicles – the all-new 2011 iQ premium micro-subcompact and the second-generation 2011 tC sports coupe – at the New York International Auto Show. The tC is scheduled to arrive in dealerships later this fall, while the iQ will go on sale in early 2011.

“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 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.”

“The all-new tC features styling that is both refined and aggressive, appealing to a sports coupe owner who wants to make a bold statement. The tC has had the youngest median age buyer in the industry, and with more power, superior driving dynamics, and increased fuel efficiency, that should remain the case with the new tC as well.”

iQ Defines Premium Micro-Subcompact

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.

The iQ’s profile, defined by a strong and high beltline, glides from the large, stout headlamps, up the A-pillar, across the roof and wraps around the rear, emphasizing the iQ’s geometric shape. Side mirrors with integrated turn signals accent the clean design.

The rear emphasizes the vehicle’s modern style. Trapezoidal lines run toward the wheels, from the hatch to the bumper’s rear diffuser-like accent, creating a substantial presence. With a 78.7-inch wheelbase and a unique suspension design – consisting of MacPherson struts up front, and a torsion beam rear suspension – the three-door hatchback can deftly maneuver through city traffic. In addition, its overall length of only 120.1-inches, width of 66.1-inches, and short front and rear overhangs create a confident stance that still allows the iQ to fit into virtually any urban parking scenario.

Engineering innovations like a compact air-conditioning unit, inverted front-mounted differential, and electronic power-steering system with compact steering column, 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.

The iQ’s functional “3+1” seating equates to the world’s smallest four-passenger vehicle. With the driver’s and front-passenger’s seats being slightly off set, this innovative seating arrangement allows for one adult behind the front passenger and a child, small package, or pet behind the driver. A first for Scion, extra-slim front seat backs are utilized to provide rear passengers with ample legroom. The rear seats are extremely versatile, featuring a 50/50 split and the ability to fold flat, creating enough storage to accommodate up to two golf bags.

The iQ is small in size but large on safety. 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 come standard with 10 SRS airbags, including the world’s first rear-window curtain airbag. Other airbags include driver- and front-passenger airbags; driver- and front-passenger seat-mounted side airbags; side curtain airbags; driver- and front-passenger knee airbags; and a Scion-first driver seat-cushion airbag.

The 2011 iQ is equipped with a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces over 90 horsepower and features the latest dual VVT-i, which allows it to be impressively efficient, providing a broader powerband yet requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions.

The iQ’s engine is combined with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that helps deliver smooth acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency. The iQ will be rated as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II), and it is expected to achieve a combined fuel economy in the high 30s, comparable to similar vehicles that feature less passenger and cargo capacity.

The iQ comes standard with a six-speaker audio system and is available with multiple audio head units for various degrees of audiophiles. All iQs will be outfitted with USB and auxiliary ports, allowing personal devices to be easily integrated into the car. Steering-wheel-mounted controls command the audio system to adjust volume and shuffle through music sources such as CD, AM/FM, auxiliary input, or a library from your iPod® or other USB device.

All-New tC Sports Coupe Adds Power, Performance

Launched in 2004, the tC quickly became Scion’s top-selling vehicle, at the same time attracting the youngest buyer in the entire industry. Six years later, the second-generation tC emerges with an aggressive new look, increased driving performance, and a more premium feel.

Enhanced performance is accomplished in the second-generation tC with an all-new 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with dual VVT-i that generates 180 horsepower, 19 more than the previous model, and 11 additional lbs.-ft of torque. In addition to increases in power, the new engine delivers an increase in fuel economy all while lowering emissions. Performance is further improved and heard through a new intake manifold design and a sport-tuned exhaust system that delivers a bold and aggressive sound.

The tC features two all-new transmissions: the six-speed manual transmission has improved shift-feel and adds to the car’s already fun-to-drive character, and a new six-speed automatic gains two gears along with sequential-shift.

The 2011 tC enters its second-generation riding on a new platform, including a specially tuned MacPherson strut front-suspension and a double-wishbone rear-suspension that rides lower than the previous model. Larger 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are wrapped in wider tires, giving the tC a broader stance and elevated handling characteristics. The new model also comes standard with larger 16-inch disc brakes on all corners. A new performance-tuned electronic power-steering system provides the driver a confident feel that is more in-tune with the road. The elements brought together in the new chassis result in a premium performance that expands the tC into a new dimension of driving enjoyment.

The all-new design of the 2011 tC projects a bolder and more aggressive stance. Important design cues like the helmet-inspired cabin shape were adopted from the Calty-designed Scion FUSE concept, which was unveiled at the 2006 New York Auto Show. The protruding fender flares amplify its wider, lower stance and are aggressively complemented by a sleek front grille and projector headlamps. The shape of the rear taillights flow cleanly into the overall shape of the trunk.

Inside, a driver-focused cockpit starts with a sporty new three-spoke steering wheel that features a flat bottom and a new shape that offers a confident grip. Front seats feature robust bolsters that provide secure positioning while still offering spaciousness and comfort. The instrument-panel, gauge cluster and center-console all face inward in a V-shape, making controls easily accessible.

Overall, the cabin has been lengthened for a more comfortable passenger experience with increased versatility. Utility is enhanced with reclining rear seats that split 60/40, providing more storage capacity. The panoramic moonroof remains standard in the new tC.

The new tC comes standard with an AM/FM/CD/USB audio system that features eight speakers. As with all Scion models, steering-wheel-mounted controls allow the driver to easily navigate through all of their music.

The new tC is also reinforced with key safety features and is expected to achieve top safety ratings. In addition to standard Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), the new tC also gains standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control (TRAC), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Active front-headrests and eight airbags are also standard, including both driver and front-passenger knee airbags.

SCION iQ and tC
PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

2011 SCION iQ

POWERTRAIN

Engine:   1.3-liter, 4-cylinder with Dual VVT-i
Drivetrain:  Front-wheel drive
Transmission:  Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 120.1
Overall Width: 66.1
Overall Height: 59.1
Wheelbase: 78.7
Seating Capacity: 4

2011 SCION tC
POWERTRAIN

Engine:   2.5-liter, 4-cylinder with Dual VVT-i
Drivetrain:  Front-wheel drive
Transmission:  6-speed M/T or 6-speed A/T with Sequential-Shift

DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 174.0
Overall Width: 70.7
Overall Height: 55.7
Wheelbase: 106.3
Seating Capacity: 5

Scion iQ Production Model to Debut at NY Auto Show

Colum Wood — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 12:46:37 +0000

The production version of the Scion iQ will make its debut at the New York Auto Show next week reports Bnet. Shown at the same show last year, but in concept form (above) we don’t expect the road-ready car to be nearly so wild.

Instead, the iQ is likely to look similar to the Toyota version of the car (the original), which is currently sold overseas. And considering that version is already quite funky looking, it should suit Scion’s youth-appeal brand just fine.

As for the engine, expect the U.S. Scion model to get the most powerful engine offered in Europe – a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder with 99-hp. That might not seem like much but with how small the iQ is, it should provide peppy performance. In fact, the iQ, which is technically a 3.5-seater (three adults and a child), is roughly the size of the Smart for-two.

Scion has yet to confirm Bnets’s report and we’ve heard rumors of a different model debuting in NY City. It’s likely we won’t know for sure until next week at Scion’s NY Auto Show press conference. We’ll be sure to bring you all the details and photos with full coverage of the NY Auto Show starting March 31st.

Click here for live coverage of the NY Auto Show starting March 31st.

[*Update*] Since publishing this story we’ve had the chance to contact Scion. While we didn’t learn anything about the NY debuts, they did tell us about a new website called ScionDimension.com which will tease photos of a car (or cars) ahead of the New York Auto Show, starting March 26th. The site also has a place to sign up to get more info and a downloadable widget to give you more info on new Scion products. It will also serve as a portal to get photos and information on whatever is unveiled in New York. Plus, it will host streaming video of the unveiling live on March 31st. [*Update*]

Visit the Scion Dimension site here: ScionDimension.com

And get more Scion iQ info at IQ-Forums.com

GALLERY: Scion iQ Concept

GALLERY: Toyota iQ

[Source: Bnet]

Report: Scion iQ Mini Car to Arrive in U.S. in Late 2010

Colum Wood — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 15:55:03 +0000

First shown as a concept (above) at the New York Auto Show earlier this year, Scion will reportedly bring the iQ to market by the Fall of 2010.

After receiving an excellent reception at the show, Scion’s VP, Jack Hollis has said he is fighting to get the car to market. One large Toyota dealer, has however, spilled the beans, telling the folks at AutoWeek that an agreement has been reached to bring the diminutive car to the U.S.

At a length of just 117.5-inches, the iQ is only slightly larger than a SMART fortwo. Unlike the SMART, however, the iQ can fit three adults and a child… at least that’s what Scion says. Taking a look at the car, however, it appears as though seating for two is about all there’s room for.

While several engine options are available in Europe, the iQ will most likely get the largest (1.3-liter four-cylinder) when it debuts in the U.S. That engine makes 99hp and gets 66 mpg.

Scion is a company desperate to reinvent itself, as its popularity is based as much on fresh product as it is on customizing that product. “Scion is a good business mode that will be valuable and viable in the future, but for the business model to be successful, product freshness is key,” said Toyota North America president and COO Yoshi Inaba. And fresh-product isn’t something Scion has much of. Currently the company is working on a replacement to the tC coupe, while the iconic Scion, the xB, is already starting to lose out to new models like the Kia Soul.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Toyota to Launch iQ Mini Car in U.S. as Scion Model

Colum Wood — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:37:29 +0000

Toyota will bring its iQ city car to North America by 2012, badged as a Scion model. Scion debuted a concept of the iQ (shown above) at the New York Auto Show this year. When it does launch, however, expect it to look significantly more tame.

Currently the mini car (about the size of a SMART fortwo) is sold in Europe and Asia and three engines are offered. Once it makes its way to North America we are likely to get the 1.33-liter four-cylinder with 99hp. Although according to Toyota a 1.6-liter engine will fit.

The iQ is technically a 3+1, meaning that it can seat three adults and one child. This is possible by locating the passenger seat ahead of the driver’s seat so that there is actual leg room for a rear passenger on the passenger’s side.

The iQ is also slated to be the base of an electric vehicle due out in 2012, and recently Aston Martin announced it was working on a concept, the Cygnet, that is based on the iQ.

The Scion iQ is expected in either 2010 or 2011 as a 2011 or 2012 model.

GALLERY: Scion iQ

[Source: Motor Trend]