Toyota IQ: City Car With 65.7 MPG And Big Interior

The Toyota iQ represents a bold engineering feat in the world of compact vehicles, packing remarkable interior space and adult-like driving dynamics into a body shorter than most city cars. Launched to tackle urban congestion, this micro-hatchback challenged conventions by offering seating for three adults and a child while measuring just under three meters long.

Engineering Marvels Behind the Compact Design

Toyota’s engineers approached the iQ as a blank-canvas project, prioritizing passenger accommodation over traditional proportions. By positioning wheels at the extreme corners—a setup dubbed ‘super stance’—they maximized the cabin’s usable area. This design not only enhances stability but also contributes to an impressively tight turning circle of 3.9 meters, making it exceptionally maneuverable in tight city streets.

Key innovations include a remarkably slim fuel tank, only 12 cm high, tucked under the chassis to free up rear legroom. The air conditioning unit was miniaturized and relocated to the asymmetric dashboard, allowing the front passenger seat to slide further forward. These tweaks create a counterintuitive sense of spaciousness: shoulder room rivals that of a Volkswagen Golf, despite the iQ’s diminutive length.

• Wheels at corners: Improves stability and parking ease.
• Thin fuel tank: 12 cm height preserves rear space.
• Compact AC unit: Enables forward passenger positioning.
• Asymmetric dash: Optimizes layout for driver and passenger comfort.

Powertrain Options and Real-World Efficiency

Available with two petrol engines—a 1.0-liter three-cylinder VVT-i producing 67 bhp and a 1.33-liter four-cylinder—the iQ prioritizes economy over outright speed. The base 1.0-liter unit achieves combined fuel economy of 65.7 mpg, with urban figures at 57.7 mpg and extra-urban up to 72.4 mpg. CO2 emissions sit at a low 99 g/km, placing it in VED band A with zero road tax liability.

In practice, the small tank (around 36 liters) means frequent but cheap refills—£5 often fills it halfway. Owners report real-world ranges closer to 300-400 miles, still impressive for city use. The five-speed manual gearbox features tall gearing and a shift light for optimal efficiency, while an optional CVT auto suits stop-start traffic.

Driving Experience: Surprisingly Capable

Don’t let the size fool you; the iQ drives like a larger hatchback. Its Golf-like width provides planted handling on motorways and twisty roads, with firm yet composed suspension that absorbs most imperfections. Three-cylinder vibes add character without excessive noise, and wind rush is well-muted at highway speeds.

Parking is effortless thanks to the short length and rear visibility, while the turning circle U-turns in spaces rivaling two-seaters. It’s no hot hatch, but the responsive steering and low weight (880 kg) make it engaging for daily commutes. Diesel variants in some markets offered even better economy, though petrol models dominate reviews.

Interior Space and Comfort Redefined

Step inside, and the iQ scrambles expectations. Front occupants enjoy generous shoulder room and supportive seats, despite their slim profile designed to save space. The passenger side offers extra legroom via the offset dash, allowing a tall adult to sit behind the driver comfortably.

Rear seats accommodate two small adults or one adult plus a child, with ISOFIX points standard. Boot space is limited at 32 liters (expandable to 240 liters with seats folded), but clever touches like a velcro ‘glovebox’ and hidden storage maximize utility. Materials feel premium for the class, with a driver-focused cockpit featuring clear analog gauges and a small digital display.

Safety Features That Punch Above Weight

Safety was non-negotiable for Toyota, earning the iQ a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Nine airbags include a novel rear curtain for side impacts, plus stability control and traction aids. While its light weight raises questions in high-speed crashes, the rigid structure and corner placement of wheels enhance protection in urban scenarios.

• 9 airbags, including rear curtain.
• Five-star Euro NCAP.
• Electronic stability program.
• ABS with EBD standard.

Practicality for Urban Lifestyles

Ideal for city dwellers, the iQ slips into the tightest spots and shrugs off parking hassles. Its 15-inch alloys fill the arches for a premium stance, and build quality matches Toyota’s reputation for durability. Company car users benefit from 10% tax liability on the 1.0 model.

Running costs are low: cheap insurance (group 6-10), minimal servicing, and bulletproof reliability. Used examples remain affordable, often under £5,000, making it a quirky classic for enthusiasts seeking efficiency without blandness.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Why the iQ Stands Out Today

In an era of bloated SUVs, the iQ’s ingenuity feels prescient. It blends Mini-like personality with Smart rationality, but outperforms both in space and safety. Toyota’s attention to detail—from the rev-happy engine to the stable chassis—creates a car that’s fun, frugal, and future-proof for urban mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Toyota iQ reliable?

Yes, inheriting Toyota’s legendary durability, with few reported issues beyond standard wear.

How many seats does it have?

Four seats, comfortably seating three adults and a child.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Up to 65.7 mpg combined for the 1.0-liter, with low CO2 emissions.

Is it safe?

Five-star Euro NCAP with nine airbags and advanced stability systems.

Good for parking?

Excellent, with a 3.9m turning circle and tiny footprint.

Available used?

Yes, affordable on the second-hand market with strong residuals.