Toyota iQ (2009-2014) Buying Guide
        Pictures shown may not represent exact model specified
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by Richard Dredge When Toyota launched the iQ it set the cat among the pigeons. Here was a car less than three metres long, which offered the comfort and refinement of something much bigger. However, it wasn't a four-seater whatever Toyota might have claimed, unless two of those passengers are small children. But despite its diminutive proportions, the iQ can carry far more than you'd think, with the rear seat backs tipped forward to increase boot space. Nimble and solidly built, the iQ offers superb urban transport - and in 1.33-litre form it's good on longer journeys too. Impressive for its manoeuvrability, compact dimensions, cabin quality and driving experience, some of the interior plastics should be better, but a five-star Euro NCAP rating and sub-99g/km emissions are further incentives to buy. |
| We Like | We Don't Like |
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| Sharp design High-quality cabin Low running costs Comfy ride Manoeuvrability Reliability Efficient engines |
Costly to buy Limited cabin space |
| Key Dates | |
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| 1/09 | The iQ arrives in 1.0-litre form, with a choice of two trim levels and manual or CVT automatic transmissions. |
| 7/09 | A 1.33-litre engine offers a useful performance boost but comes only in range-topping '3' trim. |
| 9/09 | Toyota announces a partnership with Aston Martin to create a new luxury city car based on the iQ, called the Cygnet. |
| 7/10 | A range of fresh interior finishes and exterior paint colours is introduced; the iQ also becomes Euro 5 compliant. |
| 1/12 | There's now a raft of new customisation options. |
| Checklist | |
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