Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Pulled Ahead? Scion dealers saying iQ headed for U.S. in 2010]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/pulled-ahead-scion-dealers-saying-iq-headed-for-u-s-in-2010/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/pulled-ahead-scion-dealers-saying-iq-headed-for-u-s-in-2010/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/pulled-ahead-scion-dealers-saying-iq-headed-for-u-s-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scion iQ Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last we heard, Toyota was planning to bring the diminutive iQ to the American market badged as a Scion in either late 2010 or early 2011 as a 2012 model. According to AutoWeek, that date may have been moved up a few months as a major Scion dealership (which declined to be named) has confirmed the car for next September or October. If true, that could mean that the car will carry a 2011 designation, and might also pull the iQ ahead of the replacement for the tC coupe, which was previously said to be the next Scion in waiting.

It's no secret that the Scion brand has been hit harder than most in the face of the worst economic downturn in recent memory (down 57.8 percent for the year through July), and it's apparently thought the 66-mpg Smart-killing iQ is just what the doctor ordered to spruce up the automaker's lineup.

Speaking at the iQ's debut in Scion drag at the New York Auto Show, company Veep Jack Hollis said that "the interest was so high that it would be silly for us not to fight for [the iQ], but the next-generation tC is our top priority now." That next-gen tC is rumored to drop sometime in mid-to-late-2010 with more aggressive styling and a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower. Armchair quarterback time: which new model is more important for the Scion brand, the iQ or the tC? Click past the break to take part in our poll.



[Source: AutoWeek]

Continue reading Pulled Ahead? Scion dealers saying iQ headed for U.S. in 2010

Pulled Ahead? Scion dealers saying iQ headed for U.S. in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 scion iq2010 scion tc2010ScionIq2010ScionTc2011 scion iq2011 scion tc2011ScionIq2011ScionTcscionscion iqscion iq conceptscion tcScionIqScionIqConceptScionTcMon, 17 Aug 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Scion iQ headed for America by early 2011 with a few changes]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-scion-iq-headed-for-america-by-early-2011-with-a-few-cha/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-scion-iq-headed-for-america-by-early-2011-with-a-few-cha/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-scion-iq-headed-for-america-by-early-2011-with-a-few-cha/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Scion iQ Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

As expected, Toyota's youthful Scion division will indeed get a version of the diminutive iQ for the North American market, possibly by either the end of 2010 as an '11 model or in early 2011 as a '12 model. According to Motor Trend, the car will cost about the same as the Yaris and get the usual modifications for the American market, such as slightly extended bumpers and recalibrated airbags to meet U.S. safety regulations.

Fortunately, the Big-Wheels-esque body kit and rims that the Japanese automaker fitted to the conceptual Scion iQ that was shown off at the New York Auto Show earlier this year won't come to the States as standard equipment. We're not entirely sure what powerplants Toyota plans to use in the American iQ, but in other markets it's available with three engines displacing between 1.0 and 1.4 liters. No hybrid iQ is currently planned due to cost and packaging considerations.

Interestingly, MT also reports that the Toyota FT-EV electric car concept from this year's Detroit Auto Show, which was based on the iQ minicar, will hit the market by 2012. At this time, the Japanese automaker may still be deciding between tried-and-true nickel metal hydride batteries or more powerful but unproven lithium ion units. Regardless, Toyota's aiming for a 50-mile range and an eight-hour recharge from a standard wall outlet.

Gallery: New York 2009: Scion iQ concept


[Source: Motor Trend]

REPORT: Scion iQ headed for America by early 2011 with a few changes originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 scion iq2011ScionIq2012 scion iq2012ScionIqbreakingscionscion iqScionIqtoyota ft-evtoyota ft-ev concepttoyota iqToyotaFt-evToyotaFt-evConceptToyotaIqMon, 29 Jun 2009 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[New York 2009: The Scion iQ goes Big Wheels!]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/08/new-york-2009-the-scion-iq-goes-big-wheels/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/08/new-york-2009-the-scion-iq-goes-big-wheels/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/08/new-york-2009-the-scion-iq-goes-big-wheels/#commentsFiled under: ,


Scion iQ Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

To no one's surprise, Toyota unveiled the Scion iQ concept today at the New York Auto Show. Ever since the iQ debuted in Europe last year, the expectation has been that Toyota would sell the micro compact car as a Scion here in the U.S. to compete against the Smart ForTwo. What surprised us were the modifications made to the iQ for its debut in the States. In keeping with the customization culture that is rampant among Scion owners, the concept features widely flared fenders and super-size 18-inch wheels.

Like the current production model, the concept iQ features 3+1 seating with a very compact air conditioning unit that facilitates an asymmetrical dashboard. This allows the front passenger seat to slide forward so that one adult can fit in the back. The seat behind the driver, however, is strictly for the legless. One new innovation in the iQ is a rear window airbag that provides protection to rear seat passengers whose heads are butted up against the rear glass. The concept also features lots of special lighting and a pop-up 10-inch LCD embedded in the dash.

Scion is just evaluating the iQ for U.S. introduction, but we would be shocked not to see it sold here soon.


Gallery: New York 2009: Scion iQ concept



Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid and Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2009: The Scion iQ goes Big Wheels!

New York 2009: The Scion iQ goes Big Wheels! originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnew yorknew york 2009new york auto shownew york auto show s...new york autoshowNewYorkNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShowS...NYAutoShowscion iqscion iq conceptScionIqScionIqConceptWed, 08 Apr 2009 16:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy shot: Scion iQ already in New York?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/spy-shot-scion-iq-already-in-new-york/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/spy-shot-scion-iq-already-in-new-york/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/spy-shot-scion-iq-already-in-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In mid-March, Scion confirmed that a new concept car would be headed our way during the New York Auto Show. This "micro-subcompact" sounded like a Scion-badged iQ to us, and now we think we have the first spy shots of the car being unloaded in New York. Of course, this being April Fool's and all, we're not sure how much credence to give this picture. It looks like there's been some digital manipulation going on, but that could be just to bring out the highlights a bit. From the image, this looks like a very slightly tweaked version of the Toyota iQ we've seen so much of. Here's a front-on shot of that car to compare to the spy shot. The front bumper is a bit different, with a row of LED lights replacing the round lights from the Toyota. The grinning vent is also a bit wider. For more details, we won't have to wait much more than a week. The New York show kicks off April 8th.

Gallery: Toyota iQ on the Road


[Source: Autoweek via Autoblog]

Spy shot: Scion iQ already in New York? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iqnew yorknew york auto showNewYorkNewYorkAutoShowscionscion iqScionIqtoyota iqToyotaIqWed, 01 Apr 2009 16:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Scion confirms new concept car headed for New York, iQ on the way?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/scion-confirms-new-concept-car-headed-for-new-york-iq-on-the-wa/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/scion-confirms-new-concept-car-headed-for-new-york-iq-on-the-wa/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/scion-confirms-new-concept-car-headed-for-new-york-iq-on-the-wa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res image gallery of the Toyota iQ

Scion has decided to end speculation about whether a new concept vehicle will be unveiled at the New York Auto Show by issuing a press release confirming our suspicions. In the process, though, the automaker has stirred the pot back up regarding what type of vehicle will be on display. According to the super short blurb (pasted after the break), the new concept will be a "micro-subcompact" and will represent "a new segment for the brand aimed toward the growing urbanization trend."

Sounds like a U.S. version of the diminutive Toyota iQ to us. The new model may wear the tD moniker that's been seen floating around the U.S. Patent and Trademark offices and would not displace the aging tC in the automaker's line. Come back around noon EDT on April 8th to find out for sure.

Gallery: 2009 Toyota iQ


[Source: Scion]

Continue reading Scion confirms new concept car headed for New York, iQ on the way?

Scion confirms new concept car headed for New York, iQ on the way? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnew york 2009new york auto showNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShowscionscion iqscion tdScionIqScionTdtoyota iqtoyota iq usToyotaIqToyotaIqUsWed, 18 Mar 2009 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Popular Mechanics compares fuel efficiency of Nissan Cube, Kia Soul and Scion xB]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/popular-mechanics-compares-fuel-efficiency-of-nissan-cube-kia-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/popular-mechanics-compares-fuel-efficiency-of-nissan-cube-kia-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/popular-mechanics-compares-fuel-efficiency-of-nissan-cube-kia-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res galleries of the Kia Soul and Nissan Cube

The latest generation of the Scion xB - the car that kicked off the currently popular "box-it-came-in" styling trend - may be a perfectly fine vehicle with a few welcome improvements over the first edition, but we still miss the size, shape and fuel economy that the old model was able to deliver. Now that the 2009 Nissan Cube and 2010 Kia Soul are on their way to U.S. shores, drivers may finally get to choose what size they want their brick-like vehicles to come in.

Popular Mechanics managed to snag one of each of these triplets and they took the opportunity to drive them back-to-back through city slogs, canyon curves and the highway superslabs in between. Not surprisingly, all three vehicles seem to have offered something to recommend them over their competitors, but only one machine could come out on top, and it was the one that also managed to post the best fuel efficiency. We won't steal their thunder, though, click here for the full story.

[Source: Popular Mechanics]

Popular Mechanics compares fuel efficiency of Nissan Cube, Kia Soul and Scion xB originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kia soulKiaSoulnissan cubeNissanCubescion xbScionXbThu, 26 Feb 2009 19:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Electric vehicle-to-grid network arrives in Newark, DE]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/electric-vehicle-to-grid-network-arrives-in-newark-de/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/electric-vehicle-to-grid-network-arrives-in-newark-de/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/electric-vehicle-to-grid-network-arrives-in-newark-de/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Newark, DE has gotten the green light for one of the first two-way Vehicle to Grid infrastructure. Sponsored by a $730,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, the project helps the state and the University of Delaware to purchase specially-equipped cars (retrofitted versions of the Scion xB) which would get electricity from the local utility and give back some of it when the car is parked and plugged in. Of course, a handful of cars aren't enough to make any dramatic impact on the grid, but regional grid manager believes that a thousand will make a noticeable difference. The demonstration vehicles, plugged into a single 208-volt, 50-amp outlet, can each use or send onto the grid 10.4 kWh of electricity. What Delaware needs now, besides the EV cars, is a complete network of garages, apartment parking lots and city streets outfitted with the right size plugs, as the grid is actually ready to go. Thanks to GoodCheer for the tip.

[Source: Delaware Online]

Continue reading Electric vehicle-to-grid network arrives in Newark, DE

Electric vehicle-to-grid network arrives in Newark, DE originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delawaregrid to vehicleGridToVehiclenewark delawareNewarkDelawaresmart electric gridsmart gridSmartElectricGridSmartGridvehicle to gridVehicleToGridxbWed, 14 Jan 2009 17:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Visiting AC Propulsion, Tom Hanks with Current TV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/visiting-ac-propulsion-tom-hanks-with-current-tv/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/visiting-ac-propulsion-tom-hanks-with-current-tv/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/visiting-ac-propulsion-tom-hanks-with-current-tv/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to watch video

A crew from Al Gore's Current TV was able to chat up Peter Scolari's better half (that'd be Tom Hanks, above) about driving his all-electric eBox, the converted Scion xB and visit the AC Propulsion headquarters for an interview with CEO Tom Gage. Current host Kristen Reeves opens her report by saying that AC Propulsion can convert pretty much any car to electric drive, but the company has focused on turning the xB into the eBox, i.e., Tom Hanks' favorite car. Watch the report after the jump.

AC Propulsion also supplied the electric drive system for BMW's 500-strong MINI E test fleet. Regular readers will know that the MINI E turns on the brake lights when the driver's foot is removed from the acceleration pedal because of the strong regen brake system. Hearing Gage talk about slowing down in the eBox in the video makes us wonder if the converted Scion does the same thing.

Gallery: Electric MINI E


[Source: Current]

Continue reading Visiting AC Propulsion, Tom Hanks with Current TV

Visiting AC Propulsion, Tom Hanks with Current TV originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ac propulsionac propulsion tzeroAcPropulsionAcPropulsionTzeroeboxkristen reevesKristenReevesscionscion xbScionXbtom gagetom hanksTomGageTomHanksFri, 12 Dec 2008 14:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Scion iQ looking more and more likely in U.S.]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/27/scion-iq-looking-more-and-more-likely-in-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/27/scion-iq-looking-more-and-more-likely-in-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/27/scion-iq-looking-more-and-more-likely-in-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above to enlarge the Toyota iQ

The hints from a few weeks ago that Toyota would be bringing the tiny iQ to the U.S. with a Scion badge are looking more and more like the truth. AutoblogGreen reader Mark F. got an email from his local Scion dealer, Bill Kidd's in Maryland, that describes "The Future of Scion." The full update on the Scion brand reads as follows:

Scion is recognized world wide for their distinctive and customizable models, with the dependability of a Toyota product. Recently, the Scion xD was recognized by Consumer Reports as the #1 reliable new car with 80% less problems than the average model. Scion remains committed to bringing Gen Y buyers a unique, yet affordable vehicle, and 2010 is sure to be the biggest year yet. The highly anticipated, newly redesigned tC will be released, as well as an all new vehicle: The Scion IQ. As the smallest, most fuel efficient Scion, it's sure to turn heads. Stay tuned!

Nothing new there, but hearing from a dealer that the Scion iQ is on the way in 2010 is about at much confirmation as we're likely to get right now, isn't it?

Gallery: Frankfurt 2007: Toyota iQ concept


[Source: Bill Kidd's email]

Scion iQ looking more and more likely in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iqscion iqscion-iqScionIqtoyota-iqMon, 27 Oct 2008 12:36:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: Toyota iQ coming to U.S. as a Scion?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/la-preview-toyota-iq-coming-to-u-s-as-a-scion/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/la-preview-toyota-iq-coming-to-u-s-as-a-scion/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/la-preview-toyota-iq-coming-to-u-s-as-a-scion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above to enlarge the Toyota iQ

Toyota's entry-level and hip Scion brand needs a bit of a pick-me-up, as the marque's sales are down even in the face of high fuel prices here in the United States. Scion could end up getting that new product it so desperately needs in the form of Toyota's radical new iQ. According to Motor Trend, the new iQ will make its debut in production form as a Scion at the upcoming LA Auto Show, and your humble scribes will be in attendance. If true, the new iQ will give Scion an edgy new product to do battle with the likes of the smart fortwo.

Toyota's iQ features a novel new 3+1 seating arrangement, which allows three normal-sized adults plus one extra spot behind the driver for small kids or an adult in emergencies. Its closest competitor in size, the fortwo, seats only two adults. We'll see if this rumor, which would be very good news for Scion, turns out to be true when we get to LA.

Gallery: 2009 Toyota iQ


[Source: Motor Trend]

LA Preview: Toyota iQ coming to U.S. as a Scion? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iqscionscion iqScionIqtoyota iqToyotaIqFri, 10 Oct 2008 20:04:00 EST<![CDATA[New low-cost hybrid coming from Scion?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/08/06/new-low-cost-hybrid-coming-from-scion/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/08/06/new-low-cost-hybrid-coming-from-scion/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/08/06/new-low-cost-hybrid-coming-from-scion/#commentsFiled under: ,


click on above image to view high-res gallery of the 2008 Scion xB

With Honda's imminent release of a hybrid model rumored to start around $18,500 and therefore undercutting the price of the Toyota Prius, a hybrid model from Toyota's entry-level Scion brand could be in the offing. It would make some sense, considering that Scion's sales spiked when gas prices hit the $4.00 a gallon mark before falling again. What's more, overall web site hits for the Scion brand are way down compared to its heyday just a few years back. Part of the problem is that young buyers, the original core market for the entire Scion brand, are looking elsewhere.

Jack Hollis, Scion's vice president, says, "A fourth product is essential. It could be an SUV. It could be a hybrid. We want a fourth product that buyers of the other three Scions don't like.". A fuel-efficient hybrid could fit that bill and give Toyota something which would complete directly with Honda's upcoming hybrid on level ground.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

New low-cost hybrid coming from Scion? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybrid scionHybridScionnew scionNewScionscion hybridScionHybridWed, 06 Aug 2008 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota is considering a hybrid for Scion]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/toyota-is-considering-a-hybrid-for-scion/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/toyota-is-considering-a-hybrid-for-scion/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/toyota-is-considering-a-hybrid-for-scion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Scion Hako Concept

First, the quote: "Will we have a truck in our lineup? Does it make sense to have a hybrid powertrain? Is a subcompact roadster the answer? Or will an SUV ever be viable for us. We don't know the answers but we're very open-minded." That quote comes courtesy of Jack Hollis, vice president for Scion. So, Scion is considering a hybrid, huh? That's an interesting thought, considering the low price-point that Scion operates in. Surely, a hybrid Scion would be pushing into Prius territory price-wise, which might be inconsistent with Scion's image. Whatever the case, we sure hope that the hybrid wouldn't be anything like their new Hako concept. Wow, is that sucker ug... eh, interesting looking.

In other related news, Hollis mentioned a Scion pickup. That's something worth considering, we think, and it's an idea that's been thrown around before. Ideally, we'd like to see Scion axe the Hako, make a real coupe to replace the aging tC and consider a hybrid drivetrain for that machine; test the waters for a compact unibody pickup and reduce the weight of the xB, making it more in line with the original model. Alas, nobody asked us.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Toyota is considering a hybrid for Scion originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 16:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridhybrid carshybrid scionhybrid-scionHybridCarshybridsHybridScionnew yorknew york 2008new york auto shownew-yorknew-york-2008new-york-auto-showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowscionscion pickupscion tcscion xbscion-pickupScionPickupScionTcScionXbThu, 20 Mar 2008 16:42:00 EST<![CDATA[New York 2008: Scion Hako Coupe concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-scion-hako-coupe-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-scion-hako-coupe-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-scion-hako-coupe-concept/#commentsFiled under: ,


click the Hako concept for a high-res gallery

Apparently Scion got the message from fans of the first generation xA and xB when the replacements grew larger and heavier. Today they debuted a new concept called the Hako Coupe at the New York Auto Show. The Hako was created by Toyota's Tokyo design team with an eye on vintage American design. Frankly I think it just looks weird. Nonetheless it is smaller and it sounds like Scion is seriously considering this thing for production as a new addition to the lineup. At 145.7in the Hako is 9in shorter than the xD although Toyota didn't give any other technical details. The interior is packed with all kinds of techno goodness such as video cameras and interfaces for ipods and other gadgets. Scion made a point of mentioning that they wanted a polarizing design that wouldn't necessarily appeal to everyone, but those who like it would love it.

Gallery: Scion Hako Concept


[Source: Scion]

Continue reading New York 2008: Scion Hako Coupe concept

New York 2008: Scion Hako Coupe concept originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new yorknew-yorknew-york-2008new-york-auto-showNewYorkscion hakoscion-hakoScionHakoWed, 19 Mar 2008 17:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Inside Line pokes fun at the Nissan Cube]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/02/21/inside-line-pokes-fun-at-the-nissan-cube/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/02/21/inside-line-pokes-fun-at-the-nissan-cube/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/02/21/inside-line-pokes-fun-at-the-nissan-cube/#commentsFiled under: , ,


PHOTO: Scott Jacobs / INSIDE LINE

It had to happen, given the fundamental laws of nature governing rivalries: Inside Line has done a playful side-by-side comparison of the Nissan Cube and the Scion xB. JDM-spec Cube did not fare exactly well against the US-market Scion (which it won't compete directly against, anyway). The Nissan's 1.4L four is perfectly adequate for the crowded streets of Tokyo but is taxed on American roads, as the Cube takes 13.8 seconds to go from 0 to 60. Based on Inside Line's impressions, a quarter mile run down the drag strip might well be measurable in the amount of beard growth you experience along the way. To be fair, one could easily argue that the quarter-mile time of a runabout like Nissan Cube is about as relevant to its target audience as the off-roading capabilities of the Chevy Corvette are to its prospective buyers. Still, when compared directly to the Cube, Inside Line finds the Scion better-suited to handle the average American's daily driving needs without relying on wide-open throttle as often as possible. That last bit manifests itself at the pump as Inside Line only squeezed around 22 mpg out of Nissan's microcar.

Aesthetically, Inside Line notes that the Cube's funky, asymmetric style makes the larger Scion xB look normal by comparison. Inside, the itsy bitsy Nissan provides flexibility in terms of passenger and cargo-carrying capacity, and it has some neat, thoughtful features like a coat rack in the rear storage compartment. Still, Inside Line feels that an eventual US-market Cube (there could be an announcement made next month in New York) would have to grow in size and power to better fit in, much like the '08 xB is larger than its predecessor. Sure, not everyone likes the fact that the 2nd-gen xB got bigger (us included), but when the Cube arrives, it'll have a clean slate since Americans won't have a prior model to compare it against. Assuming Nissan delivers a US-spec Cube that doesn't lose the the current car's quirky Japanese charm and delivers good fuel economy, the xB's gonna have a real fight on its hands in a couple of years. Read Inside Line's comparo in full here.

Gallery: Nissan Cube (JDM)


[Source: Inside Line]

Inside Line pokes fun at the Nissan Cube originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cubeinside lineInsideLineNissannissan cubeNissanCubeScionVideoxBThu, 21 Feb 2008 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW to challenge Smart with Isetta brand?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/02/03/bmw-to-challenge-smart-with-isetta-brand/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/02/03/bmw-to-challenge-smart-with-isetta-brand/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/02/03/bmw-to-challenge-smart-with-isetta-brand/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

People are already comparing the new Smart with old microcars like the Iso (and BMW) Isetta, so it makes sense that BMW would consider producing a challenger using the old, but not forgotten, marque. Reports indicate that this is a distinct possibility. In an ironic twist, BMW may consider producing the microcar to offset their large luxury-performance cars to comply with upcoming European CO2 regulations. Back when the Isetta was initially launched, the profits from that model are what allowed BMW to branch into the large car market in the first place. How the times have changed!

Although the Smart is a thoroughly modern version of the microcar concept, the Isetta would draw a more retro profile. Hey, it's worked for BMW before - their Mini brand sets a fine pattern but is a tough act to follow. BMW has a great deal of experience making small and reliable motors for their line of motorcycles, so creating a suitable powerplant might not be a problem. Diesel engines would be a near lock for the European market, but no hybrid is planned for the States. Instead, a small turbocharged gasoline engine would likely be on the menu. If these reports prove accurate, retro and modern will go head-to-head once again in the microcar market, leading to more choices for the consumer.

[Source: Auto Express]

BMW to challenge Smart with Isetta brand? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 03 Feb 2008 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwisettaisoiso isettaiso-isettaIsoIsettamicrocarsmartSun, 03 Feb 2008 16:41:00 EST<![CDATA[AutoblogGreen Short Take: 2008 Scion xB - packing on the pounds]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/23/autobloggreen-short-take-2008-scion-xb-packing-on-the-pounds/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/23/autobloggreen-short-take-2008-scion-xb-packing-on-the-pounds/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/23/autobloggreen-short-take-2008-scion-xb-packing-on-the-pounds/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the xB for a high-res gallery

Toyota has been taking plenty of hits from environmental groups of late for playing up a green image while working behind the scenes to neuter new fuel economy standards. The big Tundra pickup has gotten most of the attention as a gas hog, but another more diminutive model has taken a big mileage hit for 2008 and not because of the EPA's new test procedures. After the mileage of the original Scion xB was adjusted downward based on the new tests, the mileage of the automatic transmission model was rated at 26/31/28 city/highway/combined. The new 2008 model is rated at 22/28/24 mpg.

After driving the xB for a week I averaged 23.4 mpg in my usual mixed driving cycle. Why the big drop? The 2008 xB is over 630 lbs heavier than the previous iteration and a foot longer. The original xB was based on the platform of the previous generation Toyota Yaris/Vitz and was sold in Japan as the Toyota bB. The new US market xB is based on the larger heavier Corolla platform. In Japan a new redesigned bB is still available based on the smaller architecture.

Why isn't our xB based on the new bB? Toyota probably felt that Americans would prefer a larger more powerful car and buy them in larger numbers. Were they right? It's probably too early tell as there was a gap in availability between the old and new models. So far the new one is selling at a slower monthly rate than the original. We'll watch this but for now if you want to know what Dan Roth and I thought of the new xB head over to Autoblog for a full review. It will also be interesting to see if the anti-Toyota crowd starts picking on the xB as well.

[Source: Autoblog]

AutoblogGreen Short Take: 2008 Scion xB - packing on the pounds originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 08:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008-scion-xbscionscion-xbxbTue, 23 Oct 2007 08:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota launches JDM Scion xB as Corolla Rumion]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/toyota-launches-jdm-scion-xb-as-corolla-rumion/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/toyota-launches-jdm-scion-xb-as-corolla-rumion/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/toyota-launches-jdm-scion-xb-as-corolla-rumion/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The second-generation Scion xB grew substantially in size and weight when it debuted a few months ago. The original was based on the previous-generation Toyota Yaris platform and used the 1.5L engine from that car. The new one comes with a much more powerful and less-efficient 2.4L four cylinder. Toyota has just launched a version of this same car in the Japanese domestic market as the Corolla Rumion.

The Rumion gets a choice of smaller 1.5L and 1.8L engines along with the possibility of all-wheel drive. Unlike the US market xB, which is stuck with the option of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, the Rumion gets a CVT or seven speed sequential semi-automatic. The 1.5L version is rated at 38.1 mpg on the Japanese test cycle while five-speed xB only gets 22/28 mpg from the EPA. Even the 1.8L front wheel drive model manages 36.2 mpg. If Toyota is really serious about environmental credibility, why aren't they offering something similar in the US market? Clearly the performance wouldn't be as good but it would sure go a long way toward demonstrating what US car buyers actually want. More details on the Rumion are available in the Toyota press release after the jump.

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota launches JDM Scion xB as Corolla Rumion

Toyota launches JDM Scion xB as Corolla Rumion originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 09 Oct 2007 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>scion-xbtoyota-corolla-rumiontoyota-fuel-economyTue, 09 Oct 2007 13:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Tom Hanks driving his electric Scion xB]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/08/video-tom-hanks-driving-his-electric-scion-xb/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/08/video-tom-hanks-driving-his-electric-scion-xb/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/08/video-tom-hanks-driving-his-electric-scion-xb/#commentsFiled under: ,



We mentioned Tom Hanks was the first person to get an eBox, a Scion xB converted to run on electric power. Above is a video of Tom driving in the eBox and explaining what it's all about, even showing a picture of it. The video's page says the video was deleted, it looks like a bad take and I can't find part 2; so the video may not work very soon. Anywho, Tom is a great supporter of electric cars, famously promoting the EV1 on Letterman, and we are really glad to see him enjoying his eBox.

UPDATE: You can find the video here now.

[Source: ???]

Video: Tom Hanks driving his electric Scion xB originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 08 Oct 2007 10:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eBoxhanks-eboxhanks-scionScion xBScionXbTom Hankstom-hankstom-hanks-scionTomHanksvideoMon, 08 Oct 2007 10:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota prices the 2008 Scion xD starting at $14,550]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2007/07/14/toyota-prices-the-2008-scion-xd-starting-at-14-550/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/07/14/toyota-prices-the-2008-scion-xd-starting-at-14-550/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/07/14/toyota-prices-the-2008-scion-xd-starting-at-14-550/#commentsFiled under: , ,



When Toyota unveiled the second generation of their original entry-level Scion lineup at the Chicago Auto Show in February, the xB grew into a substantially larger vehicle and the xA was effectively replaced by the new xD. The overall dimensions of the xD remain close to the xA but the wheelbase is longer by 3.6 inches and weight is up by 300lbs.

With the xD due to arrive at Toyota dealerships in early August, they have just released the pricing. The xD will start at $14,550 for the manual gearbox and $800 more with an automatic. That puts it at $1,800 above the outgoing xA. The xD is rated at 27/33mpg city/highway. The Toyota press release is after the jump with more details on equipment and availability.

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota prices the 2008 Scion xD starting at $14,550

Toyota prices the 2008 Scion xD starting at $14,550 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 14 Jul 2007 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>scion xdscion xd priceScionXdScionXdPricexDxd priceXdPriceSat, 14 Jul 2007 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Could Scion ignite the compact pickup class again?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2007/07/05/could-scion-ignite-the-compact-pickup-class-again/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/07/05/could-scion-ignite-the-compact-pickup-class-again/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/07/05/could-scion-ignite-the-compact-pickup-class-again/#commentsFiled under:

I can't believe that I missed this story, but somehow the fact that Scion might be considering a foray into the compact pickup segment was lost on me. Sometimes I'm just stuck in la-la (horrible!) land I guess. Anyway, check out the rendering that I found at PickupTruck.com for the possible truck. A while back, Autoblog ran a story lamenting that the Ford Ranger seems to just be left to die on it's own, leaving a gaping hole in its wake. The hole exists because, like most other auto-segments in America, the "compact" pickups have all outgrown the "compact" class and are now called "midsize" trucks. Our earlier post about fuel efficient pickups reminded me that since Dodge created the midsize class with the Dakota, the S10 was replaced by the Colorado; the El Camino and Ranchero are long-gone; the Rabbit pickup is history... and the list goes on. So, will Scion pick up the slack?

I suppose the the Subaru Baja could slot into this class, but it too is a four-door design and has limited capabilities. Something tells me that the Scion proposal probably doesn't include hauling and towing duties among its design priorities either. Which would be a shame, I think, because there are still buyers out there for the Ranger, old design and all.

[Source: PickupTruck.com]

Could Scion ignite the compact pickup class again? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Jul 2007 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pickupscionscion pickuoscion pickupScionPickuoScionPickupThu, 05 Jul 2007 12:34:00 EST