Vehicle Description
The 2012 Scion iQ was a unique little car with a short-lived run in
North America. Here's a glimpse into its history: Born from
Toyota's City Car Concept: The iQ's roots go back to the Toyota iQ,
a city car designed by Toyota's European Design and Development
studio This tiny car prioritized maximizing space for passengers
within a minimal footprint. The Toyota iQ debuted in Japan in 2008
and later reached Europe. The Scion iQ was essentially a rebranded
version introduced in North America for the 2012 model year.
Scion's Urban Runabout (2012-2015): Scion, a defunct brand aimed at
younger buyers, targeted the iQ towards urban environments. Its
tiny size (just over 10 feet long) made parking a breeze, and its
maneuverability was ideal for city streets. The iQ offered a single
engine option - a 1.3L paired with a continuously variable
transmission (CVT). Challenges and a Quick Exit: While the iQ was a
technological marvel in terms of space optimization, it faced
criticism for its cramped rear seats, lack of power on highways,
and price tag that rivaled some larger, more practical options.
Sales figures in North America were underwhelming, and the Scion
iQ, along with its Toyota counterpart, was discontinued in 2015.
Legacy: A Quirky Experiment: Despite its short run, the Scion iQ
remains a fascinating experiment in urban mobility. It paved the
way for future small car designs and discussions around
city-friendly transportation.
