Toyota to make a bigger iQ, no hybrid model
click the Toyota iQ for high res gallery
We got to see Toyota's iQ in production form at the last Geneva Motor Show, and so far, we like what we see. We're still waiting for specific details regarding what will power the "small yet premium " 3+1 and whether or not it'll make it over to the states. Already, though, we are hearing that there could be a larger version of the vehicle built on the same platform. Doesn't that defeat the whole purpose? Maybe, but it could also help Toyota to defray the cost of the vehicle, which shares no major components with other Toyota models. The larger model could allow Toyota to compete with both the smart fortwo and the Mini, not to mention VW's upcoming up!.
In other iQ news, Toyota is reportedly not planning on adding a hybrid option to the iQ, instead relying on a choice of two gas and one diesel-powered engine options. The reasoning behind not offering a hybrid relates again to the size of the vehicle. There's just no room to store a battery. Plus, the battery would add too much weight to the little car. Stop/start, though, is expected to make an appearance here.
[Source: Autocar]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Kevin Nugent 8:34PM (5/01/2008)
I think that is a smart calculated move on toyotas part
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Joseph 10:47PM (5/01/2008)
Just what will be the difference between the iQ and the Yaris hatchback then?
Isn't the iQ supposed to be competition for the Smart car? Even their two names suggest it.
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TomtenT 7:39AM (5/02/2008)
Oh yea. Toyota, with their record of instantly quitting their sought-after RAV4 EV, as soon as the C.A.R.B. demand on automakers to produce zero emission vehicles was lifted.
Toyota just isn't credible regarding green vehicles.
The auto industry isn't credible regarding environmental responsibility.
They're always protecting their allied : the OIL industry !
- - "just no room for a battery" ? Well, without the specifics in this case, you still wonder :
Just how big is the fuel tank ? And all the auxilarys to those combustion engines ? The radiator, exhaust, alternator, pumps for water pumps for fuel, not to mention the whole gearbox ! As everyone knows, electric motors start with full torque AND have an incredible powerband > thus, no need for gears = saved weight & energy !
Oh, and with no gearbox there's no need for a clutch either ! :)
Car makers will do just about anything to keep us hooked to OIL.
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Chris 10:47AM (5/02/2008)
Pointless Smart copy
There is nothing smart about the Smart nor about this car. remember the smart was a fashion accessory in Europe that wend out of style quickly once motorists realised that there is no point to a car that will only take two persons and no luggage to speak of on a bumpy ride. The only improvement of the IQ might be on the Smart's appalling reliability record.
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Throwback 11:16AM (5/02/2008)
I will wait to read a road test about this car before condeming it. My guess is Toyota reviewed the Smart and probably made a better car. I certainly prefer the styling. I would be surprised if this car does not get over 50 mpg with a gas engine considering how well the Aygo does. As a small car fan, I would love to see this in a Scion store, they wouldn't even need to change the name.
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