The Toyota iQ was first introduced as a concept car at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. Now, at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, it is announced its incorporation as a production car for the new and highly competitive C segment: “the mini cars”.
With a total length of less than 3 meters (2,985 mm), the Toyota iQ solves all the design problems that often hurt such small cars. Designers explain that this car presents a new concept called 3 + 1, this means that it can comfortably carry 3 adults plus a child or a certain amount of luggage.
From the outside we can say that the aesthetics is unbeatable, combining headlights that bring a certain “personality” with large 16-inch wheels.
Toyota engineers are especially proud of this project, in which they managed to solve big design challenges. The main aspect is the excellent use of the interior space. From the dimensional point of view, the 2 metres of wheelbase provides ample space for the passenger compartment, considering, of course, it is a car that is only 3 metres long.
To achieve space utilization, engineers developed an ultra-flat fuel tank under the seats, a new small differential, oblique rear shock absorbers and a tiny unit for air conditioning equipment (good performance).
In addition, the retractable steering column and ultra-slim asymmetric instruments make it easier to enter and exit the car. Space was also gained by using extra slim backrest chairs.
The Toyota iQ instrument features an LCD display for the climate control system and another 5.8 inch display for the satellite navigator.
Despite having extremely short overhangs, the safety of the iQ is excellent. The results of the tests prove this. The Toyota iQ earned a 5 star rating from the Euro NCAP.
As for the drivers, Toyota announced that since the launch will be offered two nafteros engines and one diesel.
The Toyota iQ will begin production at the end of 2008, while its arrival on the market is announced in early 2009. Toyota believes that this ambitious project will be very successful, even announced that they expect to sell 100 thousand units in their first year of production.
© Adrián Blanco 2008 - Prohibited the total or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author. —
