2009 New York Auto Show


Scion, Toyota's hipper sibling, unveiled what it hopes is a smart new concept, the iQ. A spin-off of the brand's 2008 Hako Concept, iQ is a micro subcompact 2-door hatchback that could slot below xD in the automaker's lineup.

Scion iQ Concept
With iQ, Scion hopes to keep attracting the young, urban trendsetters that have embraced the brand since its inception five years ago. Billed as a maneuverable, style-driven, and fuel-efficient alternative to other subcompacts on the market, iQ rides on a 78.7-inch wheelbase and is just over 10 feet long.

This 3+1 (three passengers plus a child, pet, or small package) concept was shown in radioactive yellow-green. Blacked-out headlights, 18-inch wheels, a spoiler, and a low, wide stance give it a trendy, design-forward persona. Unique interior features include a dashboard-mounted 10-inch retractable LCD screen that functions as the car's entertainment and navigation systems, iridescent green and gray honeycomb textured upholstery, and a rear-window curtain airbag. When not in use, the screen lays flat on the dash and emits different light patterns.

2009 New York Auto Show

Though Scion officials wouldn't confirm a production version, the brand's business strategy is to stay fresh and relevant with new, unique-looking products; iQ certainly fits into that plan.

CG Says...
Toyota currently sells a subcompact by the same name in Japan. It was rumored to come stateside in 2010, but it looks like iQ will come over in Scion trim instead. If Scion's looking to score points with the style conscious young city-dwellers it courts, the tiny, edgy iQ could prove to be a smart move indeed.

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