Toyota iQ

By James Disdale

13th February 2008

The tiny Toyota iQ has broken cover. This is the first official picture of the Japanese firm’s new baby that’s set to make its public debut at next month’s Geneva show. Billed as the ‘premium’ city car, it will feature a host of hi-tech features and a luxurious interior.

Originally revealed as concept at last year’s Frankfurt show, the iQ city car measures just three metres in length. Despite this the newcomer can seat three adults in comfort, while the boot can be given over to a child seat or luggage.

Up front the driver is treated to some cutting edge kit. There’s a heads up display featuring speed and sat-nav information, which is programmed via steering wheel-mounted controls. Elsewhere in the cabin you’ll find a panoramic glass roof and cool ambient lighting at night.

Despite its small dimensions, company bosses claim the iQ will be extremely strong. Like the Smart ForTwo, the Toyota uses a strong safety cell to protect occupants in a crash.

No details about mechanical specification have been revealed, but one insider suggested that a 1.0-litre petrol motor with stop-start technology is a possibility. Expect both manual and semi-automatic transmissions to be offered.

The first production versions should hit showrooms early next year. No prices have been revealed, expect entry-level models to cost around £9,000.

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