Toyota Iq Review: 65.7 MPG Economy And Surprising Space

The Toyota iQ represents a bold engineering feat, shrinking the essence of a full-sized car into a package under three meters long. This micro-hatchback prioritizes urban agility while delivering unexpected roominess and refinement, making it a standout choice for congested streets and tight parking spots.

Engineering Marvel: Maximizing Space in Miniature

Toyota’s designers tackled the challenge of fitting four seats into an incredibly compact body by rethinking traditional layouts. The iQ measures just 2.98 meters in length but matches the width of larger models like the VW Golf, creating a square yet stable stance with wheels pushed to the extremities. This ‘super stance’ enhances road presence and stability disproportionate to its size.

Inside, innovative packaging shines. The front passenger seat slides forward generously, yielding a shaft of legroom that rivals bigger hatches. A miniaturized climate control unit, tucked into an asymmetric dashboard, frees up the passenger footwell. Rear seats are ultra-thin yet supportive, allowing three adults to sit surprisingly comfortably despite the cabin’s brevity—you can nearly touch the rear glass from upfront. The fuel tank, a mere 12cm high, sits under the chassis to preserve interior volume.

Weight savings contribute to its nimbleness: at 880kg, it’s featherlight for a car with such features. This focus on efficiency without compromise earned it high safety accolades, including a five-star crash rating.

Powertrains: Efficient and Characterful Engines

The iQ offered two primary petrol engines, both tuned for city duties with low emissions. The base 1.0-liter three-cylinder VVT-i unit, shared with city car platforms, delivers modest performance—0-60mph in under 14 seconds—but punches above its specs with lively character and tall gearing. Paired with a five-speed manual (or optional CVT auto for urban purists), it achieves combined fuel economy of 65.7mpg, urban 57.7mpg, and extra-urban 72.4mpg, with CO2 at 99g/km qualifying for VED Band A (zero tax).

The punchier 1.3-liter variant adds refinement, maintaining similar efficiency around 60mpg while feeling brisker in traffic. Real-world figures hover at 30-34mpg combined in mixed US driving, excellent for the era. A 1.4-liter diesel option in select markets provided 90hp and even better economy with a six-speed manual. All setups include shift lights for optimal gearing, ensuring penny-pinching commutes.

These figures underscore the iQ’s eco-credentials, ideal for company car users facing just 10% tax liability.

Driving Dynamics: Surprisingly Capable Beyond the City

Don’t let the size fool you—the iQ handles like a bigger car. Its firm yet composed ride suppresses noise effectively, while cornering feels planted thanks to the wide track and low center of gravity. It’s no hot hatch, but it holds its own on motorways and twisty roads, outpacing rivals in stability. The manual gearbox shifts precisely, and the auto suits stop-start traffic.

• Urban prowess: Tiny turning circle and compact dimensions make it a parking wizard.
• Motorway competence: Cruises quietly at speed with minimal wind noise.
• Fun factor: Cheeky personality blends Mini playfulness with Smart rationality.

Braking is confident with ABS standard, and traction/ stability controls add security. Some note highway efficiency dips due to aerodynamics and weight, but city use shines.

Interior Quality and Practicality

Cabin materials feel premium for the class, with supportive seats and intuitive controls. The driver-focused dash features a simple rev counter, speedo, and digital display for fuel and gear advice. Six-speaker audio and up to 10 airbags enhance comfort and safety. Boot space is limited (250 liters), but folding seats expand versatility.

It’s a ‘head-scrambler’ at first—spacious laterally yet short fore-aft—but grows on you with clever touches like hidden storage. Families appreciate the four-up capability, rare in true city cars.

Safety and Reliability: Toyota Standards

Inheriting Toyota’s bulletproof reputation, the iQ scores top marks. Five-star Euro NCAP from strong structure, multiple airbags, and electronic aids. Low weight aids efficiency without sacrificing crash protection. Owners report enduring reliability, with minimal tech to fail.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Market Context and Legacy

Launched amid rising fuel costs and urban density, the iQ anticipated the micro-car trend. It outshone rivals by feeling less compromised—more ‘proper car’ than kei van or quadricycle. Badged as Scion iQ in the US, it prioritized safety over pure economy. Today, used examples remain desirable for city dwellers seeking characterful, cheap-to-run transport.

Is the Toyota iQ Right for You?

Perfect for solo commuters, couples, or small families in cities. Skip if you need vast cargo or blistering pace. Its blend of efficiency (65mpg+), space smarts, and driving charm makes it timeless.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How fuel-efficient is the Toyota iQ?

The 1.0 model hits 65.7mpg combined, with urban figures at 57.7mpg and CO2 under 100g/km.

Can the iQ seat four adults comfortably?

Yes, innovative seating allows three abreast in back, though legroom is tight for long trips.

What’s the iQ’s safety rating?

It earned five stars, with ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags.

Is it fun to drive?

Surprisingly so—firm ride, precise steering, and personality rival larger hatches.

Available engines and transmissions?

1.0/1.3 petrol manuals/autos; 1.4 diesel manual in Europe.