Center-tank layout adopted by the iQ
Steering mechanism with tie rod connected to the middle of strut
Toyota Motor Corp exhibited the mass-production model of its compact four-seater "iQ" at the 78th Geneva International Motor Show (public showing: March 6-16, 2008) .
The company plans to start the production of the iQ in the fourth quarter of 2008 in Japan and sell the car in Europe by the end of 2008. The company aims to start the volume production on the scale of 100,000 units in 2009.
With a 2,985mm long body and a 2,000mm long wheelbase, the iQ is a compact car designed for urban use. The car features the maximum interior space in its small body.
Toyota exhibited the iQ concept at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. Compared with this concept model, the latest version has a higher aerodynamic performance in consideration of mass production. The company also redesigned the rear combination lamp. The new model is shod with 16-inch tires.
The platform was developed exclusively for the iQ and features a unique packaging with the front passenger's seat being ahead of the driver's seat. Because the instrument panel on the front passenger's side is recessed, the company reportedly made some tweaks to the layout of the engine, the transmission and the air conditioner.
The iQ will be manufactured at a factory in Japan because the car uses a new platform, but the information on the production plant has yet to be announced. The company expects to score five stars in the EuroNCAP safety test.
By changing the seat arrangement, the iQ can seat 3 adults. Three adults can be seated in the driver's seat, the navigator's seat and the seat behind the navigator's seat, and one child can be seated behind the driver's seat. Unlike the concept model, the latest version has a split-folding rear seat, which makes it possible to seat three adults while using the rest of the space for luggage.
The iQ is expected to mount a 1.0L class engine in its powertrain. The company plans to reduce the CO2 emission to 99g/km, which is going to the lowest ever in the Toyota portfolio. Although unannounced, prices are expected to start from ¥1,500,000. For an A-segment car, it is targeted for premium-oriented users, the company said.
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