Production Toyota iQ uses intelligent design to get Smart
(Credit: CNET Networks)When Toyota brought the iQ concept car to Frankfurt last year, we knew that a production version of car was on its way. At today's Geneva auto show, Toyota unveiled the showroom-bound version of the ultracompact city car, which will go head-to-head with the Smart Fortwo when it arrives in Europe next year. Measuring less than 3 meters from stem to stern, the Japanese-inspired iQ makes uses of a number of engineering innovations to reduce space.
(Credit: CNET Networks)The most dramatic of these is an underfloor fuel tank that enables the car to have shorter rear overhangs. At the other end, a newly developed differential allows the iQ to be built with short front overhangs. A smaller air-conditioning system means that the iQ can be built with an "asymetric dashboard," which allows the front passenger's seat to be situated fore of the driver's seat for more overall cabin space.
(Credit: CNET Networks)Slimmer seatbacks and a repositioned steering system also free up space. Based on the model on display here at Geneva, the car also looks like it will be available with an in-dash navigation system. Toyota did not provide any information on engine choices, but previous reports suggest that it is working with Yamaha on the modification of a motorbike engine for the iQ, which, according to Toyota, will achieve "outstanding fuel economy" and CO2 emissions of around 100g/km.
