After the Great Recession, consumer demand for small, fuel-efficient city cars increased. In response, Toyota has developed his iQ, the world’s smallest four-seater car. Although badged as a Scion in North America, it remained an interesting and unconventional option for those working on the urban landscape. Scion iQ withdrew from the US in 2015, just four years after him, and 12 months later, his Scion brand also appeared.
The iQ is no longer manufactured, but shoppers can still pick it up on the second-hand market. But is it a good choice?
Is the Scion iQ safe?
Let’s go straight to the elephant in the room. The Scion iQ may seem unsafe given its very small road presence. However, crash safety ratings are another story. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given iQ a four-star rating. It’s not perfect, but the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety praises the subcompact hatchback in nearly every category.
Despite its proportions, the Scion iQ has 9 airbags, compared to 11 in later models. In addition, it is equipped with the world’s first airbag between the rear glass and the rear headrest. This makes it easier for passengers to deal with thin ribbons of air between the backs of their heads and potential rear-end collisions.
How reliable is the Scion iQ?
There is a difference between iQ’s perception of credibility in consumer and consumer reports publications. US News’ credibility score, based on his 3 out of 5 credibility rating predicted by JD Power, is slightly above average. Other rating agencies rated the iQ low, but consumers seem happy with the compact city car.
Edmunds’ Used Scion iQ consumer review presents a 4.7 star rating based on 39 reviews. Nonetheless, his 2012 and 2013 Scion iQ has one NHTSA recall for his system cable for the passenger airbag.
Does the Scion iQ have enough cargo and passenger space?
The Scion iQ is less than 10 feet long, yet seats four adults. No, seriously. Will they all be comfortable? No it doesn’t, but it fits. Realistically, the Scion iQ is closer to 3+1, with a full-size passenger only fitting behind the passenger seat. This is possible because Toyota has created some nifty space-saving features. For example, an asymmetrical dash allows the passenger to sit further forward than the driver. The HVAC unit is smaller, the underfloor fuel tank is flatter, and the seat is thinner. There isn’t enough storage space anyway.
With the rear seats up, cargo space is just 3.5 cubic feet. You might think that’s enough for a grocery bag. However, most of the space is vertical, so you’ll have a hard time squeezing a gallon of milk. Luckily, with the seats folded, he’s roomy at 16.7 cubic feet, which US News described as “a small payload capacity for a subcompact hatchback of his.” However, if you look at the iQ’s luggage compartment as a trunk, it looks like a large car. Unfortunately, potential owners must choose whether to carry friends or material possessions.
How does the Scion iQ perform?
The Scion iQ probably won’t be purchased solely for its expected unimpressive performance metrics. So potential owners won’t be bothered by his 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 94 hp. It’s not for highway acceleration, but considering the iQ weighs just over a ton, it’s not dangerously slow. When it comes to handling, the iQ’s geometry isn’t great for canyon carvers. Cars.com claims that the iQ “leaks a lot in corners and the wheels skip sideways when bumps occur mid-corner.”
Fuel economy is where the iQ shines. EPA estimates 36 mpg in city and 37 mpg on highway. The iQ isn’t a hybrid, but these are great numbers.
How much does it cost to buy a Scion iQ?
Specifically, for the 2015 iQ, US News claims that the five-year cost of gas, insurance, repairs, and maintenance will be $3,720 annually. According to them, the Scion has the lowest total among subcompact cars.
The Scion iQ was only made between 2012 and 2015, so there aren’t many available. Autotrader shows him only 17 listings. Luckily, the iQ is cheap to run and cheap to buy. The most expensive one will set potential buyers back around $14,000, but that’s for a 2012 model with less than 30,000 miles.
Is the Scion iQ a good used car?
The Scion iQ is an inexpensive, bright, and compact way to move, move, and transport your close group of friends or your monthly grocery shopping trip. With its short stance, sweep lines and wraparound rear glass, this car is a bit of a head-turner. There may be a used car alternative that achieves greater fuel economy and offers more cargo space, passenger comfort and performance dynamics. This car is for those who just want transportation.
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