Scion thinks it has a smart idea with its IQ urban transportation concept, and could launch a U.S. version early in the coming decade.
Bigger is better, or so goes the traditional automotive mantra. But things are changing in a big way, as more and more of the global population moves back into the cities. Despite the worldwide recession, Daimler’s Smart car factory can barely keep up with demand, and a growing number of makers are giving serious thought to enter the so-called “urban transportation market.”
Earlier this week, GM unveiled a prototype, dubbed PUMA, it’s developing as part of an unusual joint venture with Segway. Now comes word that Toyota’s youth-oriented Scion division may make a move into the city car segment with a pint-sized offering dubbed IQ, a tricked-out version of which is making its debut at the New York International Auto Show.
Already on sale in Japan and Europe, an American version of the IQ reflects the movement of young motorists back to big -- but crowded -- big cities.
This potential competitor to Smart measures just over 10 feet, nose to tail, and unlike the 2-seat fortwo, IQ boasts a 3+1 seating configuration. That translates into two buckets up front and a reasonably roomy rear seat with the ability to squeeze in a fourth passenger, if you don’t mind getting a bit cozy.
“IQ is designed for the young city dweller who embraces the country’s new urbanism,” said Scion’s U.S. chief executive, Jack Hollis.
The NY prototype was developed by the California tuner, 5Axis, and underscores Scion’s emphasis on individuality, with huge, 18-inch alloy wheels and a paint scheme, dubbed “radioactive,” which changes from yellow to green, depending on your vantage point.
IQ’s wheel-to-the-corners, trapezoidal shape belies the wimp-mobile image of earlier city cars. Nose-on, in fact, the prototype has a distinctly sporty look, with a narrow upper grille and a larger air intake below the bumper. Bubble wheel flares give IQ a decidedly muscular look, a theme enhanced by the integrated rear spoiler and diffuser.
The interior is clearly designed for the iPod generation, with its centerpiece a 10-inch, foldaway video screen on the top of the center stack. It can display the latest mapping system – or, when parked, DVDs. Folded down, it glows in a series of day glow colors that give the cabin “a club feel,” suggested Hollis.
IQ's interior has a "club feel," suggests Scion General Manager Jack Hollis.
The microcar features an array of safety features, starting with nine separate airbags. That includes the first-ever rear curtain airbags. Though not currently engineered to meet American crash specifications, Hollis said IQ earns the European 5-star ratings.
Versions of IQ went on sale in both Japan and Europe, late last year, and with the expanding interest in urban-based cars for the U.S., Scion is giving serious consideration to making IQ its fourth American model. “We’re still looking at the concept,” said Hollis, adding that the company will closely watching reaction at the NY Auto Show and subsequent consumer events.
“We would have to do some (safety-related) modifications for the U.S.,” explained Hollis, adding that this “would have to be more than a year.”
As for a powertrain, there are a number of options offered in Europe and Japan, including 1.0 and 1.1-liter gasoline and diesel engines. A bigger 1.3-liter engine would be more likely for a State-side version of the IQ, but Hollis cautioned that a U.S. diesel isn’t likely.
With its competition also exploring the microcar segment, it seems primarily a matter of time before Scion smartens up and increases the IQ of its U.S. line-up.