This press pack accompanied the UK launch of the first generation iQ in January 2009.
Some changes were made to the model range during its time on sale, which can be tracked
using the Timeline feature available on the Toyota iQ archive web page. Additional assets
and information relating to the first generation Iq range may be obtained from the Toyota
press office if required.
THE TOYOTA iQ
Toyota iQ: The new car for tomorrow’s low carbon society
iQ is a revolutionary vehicle that adds more appeal to Toyota’s range of urban compact cars,
a line-up that includes Aygo and Yaris. Toyota expects iQ to attract many new customers to
the brand thanks to its breakthrough design and packaging and its driving dynamics.
From an environmental perspective, iQ demonstrates how Toyota can offer cars that are
exciting and desirable, while still achieving low fuel consumption and emissions.
iQ Chief Engineer Hiroki Nakajima explains: “We wanted to create the world’s first,
sophisticated four-seat car, measuring less than three metres long, using ultra-effective
packaging, a unique design, ultra-low fuel consumption and high driving and safety
performance. To achieve this, iQ had to be similar in size to an A-segment car, its
performance would have to surpass B-segment standards and interior and exterior quality
would have be on the level of C-segment models.”
Birth of iQ
The iQ story began about five years ago when a team of Toyota engineers, led by Hiroki
Nakajima, were given the chance to create one of the most important cars to be launched by
the company. Just as Prius set a new benchmark for innovative drivetrain engineering, iQ is
intended to act as a catalyst for reshaping thinking about how compact, environmentally
efficient cars can be packaged. The tough goal was to develop a revolutionary, sophisticated
compact car with excellent environmental credentials for use in urban areas.
Initially the project focused on packaging and miniaturisation. Later, designers from Japan
and Toyota’s European design studio, ED2, worked together to create a sub-three-metre car.
About three years ago Toyota top management gave the project the green light and the iQ
concept went on to be showcased at the 2007 Frankfurt motor show.
The team targeted commercial success by designing iQ to appeal strongly to customers new
to Toyota. These are identified as the kind of people who take a more emotional approach to
car buying. While they may have admired Toyota for its success and innovation, they might
not have connected with the brand on an emotional level before. iQ is designed to change
this, designed from the outset to connect to the needs of these customers.
“ Before putting pen to paper, we carefully researched who would buy iQ,” explains Hiroki
Nakajima. “In customer clinics we came across dynamic people who demonstrate great
independence in their choice of lifestyle and their values. You could say this group has a
strong sense of who they are and what they want; they are confident in their sense of style
and seek a car through which they can communicate their individuality.”
iQ adopts a key position in Toyota’s range of compact cars. Although Aygo is longer – by
420mm – than iQ, it remains an entry-level model: simple and accessible, yet cool, fresh and
colourful. Yaris, on the other hand, is positioned at the heart of the B-segment, while also
succeeding in attracting family buyers for use as the main car in the household. iQ is different
from these and all other small cars, thanks to radical thinking that has led to a breakthrough
in automotive engineering. It also brings a new, high level of sophistication to the market,
through the use of many advanced features that are typically only found on larger cars.
On sale January 2009
iQ production begins in November at Toyota’s Takaoka plant in Japan, with Japanese sales
due to start the same month. Sales in the UK and Europe will begin in January 2009. Toyota
aims to build 100,000 units a year, with 80 per cent of sales in Europe, where the UK,
Germany, France and Italy will be the largest markets.
To fully understand the importance of iQ, you need to take a close look at the society it was
designed for. Global warming, the depletion of natural resources, fuel prices and pollution are
issues of growing concern, and there are strong demands for carmakers to develop products
that are in greater harmony with society and the environment.
CO2 reductions in Europe
In the wake of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, ratified by 128 parties by May this year, action has
been taken by the European Commission with legislation to reduce average CO2 emissions
from new passenger cars. At the same time, Toyota is determined to reduce the
environmental impact of its cars.
Speaking at the 2008 Toyota Environmental Forum in Tokyo, Toyota President Katsuaki
Watanabe said: “Since it was founded more than 70 years ago, Toyota Motor Corporation
has conducted its business based on the guiding principle of contributing to the development
of a prosperous society through the manufacture of automobiles. However, Toyota must now
seek to combine the power of people and technology to help create a society that maintains
a balance between corporate activities and environmental preservation.”
iQ and sustainability
In 2007, Toyota announced a sustainability plan that focused on work in three areas:
research and development of more environmentally efficient products; manufacturing; and
social contribution. Already iQ contributes to both the first and second of these areas.
Sustainability through research and development

Toyota hybrid research since 1965

1.5 million Toyota hybrid vehicle sales since 1997

Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles to be launched by the end of 2009

Seven million tonnes of CO2 emissions saved

Toyota Optimal Drive introducing new powertrain technologies such as Valvematic
and Dual VVT-i

iQ breakthrough in vehicle packaging

Launch of smaller, lightweight vehicles
Toyota’s overall CO2 reduction plan gains support from the introduction of a new line-up of
small cars, including iQ, that provide more customer choice with lower emissions. Sales of
fuel efficient cars such as Prius (104 g/km), Aygo (from 107 g/km) and Yaris (from 117g/km),
mean the company’s CO2 average is already falling.
At the core of Toyota’s emission reduction programme is its Hybrid Synergy Drive
technology. Hybrid not only helps reduce harmful emissions and fuel consumption, it also
causes less noise pollution and offers a high level of driving pleasure.
Toyota began experimenting with hybrid in 1965 and was the first manufacturer to introduce
mass-produced hybrid models with the 1997 launch of Prius. Since then worldwide
cumulative sales of Prius have reached one million, while those of all Toyota hybrid vehicles
passed the 1.5 million mark in June this year. By the end of 2009 Toyota will launch a Plug-in
Hybrid Vehicle (PHV), with research and development already well-advanced with on-road
testing under way in Japan America and Europe – including London.
What Prius is to drivetrain technology, iQ is to packaging. It heralds a new range of compact
Toyota cars that offer sophisticated mobility and performance, yet at the same time have less
impact on the urban environment. Rather than downsizing, or making do with less, these
ground-breaking new models use radical concepts to achieve big car refinement in a much
smaller package.
Alongside the development of these small vehicles, Toyota is making further progress
through Toyota Optimal Drive and the introduction of advanced Valvematic and Dual VVT-i
engines. Further R&D projects are focusing on alternative fuels and lightweight construction
methods.
Sustainability in manufacturing

Energy used in manufacturing per car in Europe reduced by 44 per cent since 2001

Energy-efficient production facility for iQ
Eighty per cent of a vehicle’s lifecycle emissions are produced during the time it is driven on
the road, making a reduction in this area critical. However, further benefits can be gained at
the manufacturing stage. In Europe, Toyota has reduced the average energy used to build a
car by 44 per cent since 2001. This has been achieved by using renewable energy, including
biomass and natural resources such as wind and solar power. Moreover, all Toyota’s
European manufacturing plants have achieved their target of zero waste to landfill.
The Takaoka plant, home to iQ production, has a new assembly designed to further
streamline Toyota production systems to improve both productivity and energy efficiency.
iQ Design, influenced by Toyota’s Japanese roots

J-Factor, expressing Japanese design heritage

Harmony of three design approaches: Perfect Imbalance, Integrated Components
Architecture and Freeform Geometrics

iQ interior design inspired by the manta ray
The new Toyota iQ represents bold, forward-looking Japanese design. Japanese aesthetics
are characterised by the creation of contrasts within design, such as the empty and the full,
the smooth and the rough. iQ’s design is full of contrasts in the same way: it is simple, yet
intriguing throughout.
“Like Prius, we view this car as a major milestone in Toyota’s vehicle development. It will
offer urban customers a unique proposition: a new mode of urban transport, small yet
spacious, refined yet small,” says Andrea Formica, Senior Vice-President Toyota Europe. “iQ
is a wonderful example of what we call J-Factor design, which combines Japanese
authenticity with engineering ingenuity. In this respect it is the ‘quintessential Toyota’.”
J-Factor = Japanese design heritage
Japan has a rich heritage of making beautiful objects. Until the Enlightened Period, from
1868 to 1912, when the nation opened its doors to the rest of the world, there was no
Japanese word for fine arts; in other words, there was no differentiation between the art of
things to be used and those to be admired. Thus items such as finely crafted Japanese
ceramics and furniture continue to captivate western architects and designers today.
This heritage has also influenced some key designs in our modern era, such as the 1958
Sony TR 610 transistor radio, the 1966 Nikon F SLR camera, the 1998 Sony Vaio laptop, the
1999 Shinkansen bullet train and, of course, the award-winning 2003 Toyota Prius.
“At Toyota our design philosophy is based on a belief that design should emphasise
endurance and connect the past to the future. We believe that design should touch people’s
hearts and represent a dream that has come true. To achieve this we should first go back to
our origins. We are a Japanese company and we should never hide this fact. We see it as an
advantage in our approach to design. This is what we call our J-Factor. J-factor is quite
simply Japanese originality that will have global appeal,” explains Wahei Hirai, Managing
Officer, Design Centre, Toyota Motor Corporation.
“Perfect imbalance”
Perfect Imbalance describes a use of asymmetry that is prevalent in Japanese aesthetics. An
unexpected element in an otherwise perfect composition is often the thing that makes it more
natural or dynamic. Giving vehicles a balanced appearance makes them easy to understand,
but they can soon become boring.
Perfect Imbalance was applied to iQ’s proportions: a simple, daring exterior with a strong
contrast in the stable, robust stance created by the car’s width and its short overall length.
The risk in creating a car less than three metres long was that it would look weak and
unstable, so Toyota designers knew iQ had to deliver a sense of strength and stability to
break this perception.
The result was “Stability and Dynamism”, which can be seen in the contrast between the
vehicle’s 1,680mm width and 1,500mm height with its sub-three-metre length, and in the
positioning of the wheels at the extreme corners.
By going against the conventional proportions of a small car, Toyota’s Perfect Imbalance has
helped create a car with a radical new sense of form, strength and a robust stance. Above
all, this compactness, with almost no front or rear overhangs, makes the car exciting and fun
to drive.
“Integrated component architecture”
iQ uses modern Integrated Component Architecture in which each unit contributes to the
overall design. For example, the structure around the wheels forms part of the minimal front
and rear overhangs, expressing strength and agility.
At the front of the car, the headlamp units – smoked glass with bi-halogen projector lamps on
iQ2 models – are set deep into the bonnet and wings, while the heated, electrically
adjustable door mirrors have integrated turn indicator lamps, a feature usually only found on
C or D-segment models.
Freeform Geometrics
Toyota developed a new design technique, Freeform Geometrics, to create iQ. Mathematical
formulae were used to emulate organic forms like those of seashells and fish. The clean,
precise lines are the result of accurate calculations to express movement and emotion and
make the design fresh and contemporary.
For iQ Toyota took this clarity even further, with what the Chief Engineer called “On-the-Edge
Value”, characterised by the car’s sharply contoured exterior surfaces.
Exterior design
iQ’s wheels, placed at the extremity of each corner, give the car what the designers call a
‘super-stance’. Just 2,985mm long, but with a proportionally larger 2,000mm wheelbase, iQ
is small in size, but unlike a conventional small car, it has a confident on-road appearance.
The car’s strong presence is underpinned by its five-spoke 15-inch alloy wheels, housed in
bold wheelarches, and its robust look, enhanced by tough-looking bumpers. The virtual lack
of any front or rear overhang and the concentration of weight within the wheelbase makes for
rewarding handling.
Strong vertical lines define the rear of the car, while the creative tension can be seen in the
three-quarter rear view with a seamless line running from the edge of the roofline towards the
B-pillar, curving around the deep rear glass area, before returning towards the hatch and
tailing off at the geometrically shaped wheelarches.
Interior design
iQ has a distinctive interior that combines practicality with a super-modern design. The ‘onthe-edge’ exterior styling is replicated in the interior architecture, where designers have used
mathematical analysis to recreate the beauty of natural objects – techno-organic design.
This can be seen in the floating V-shaped centre console, which is actually a mathematical
emulation of a manta ray fish. It forms the centrepiece of the asymmetrical dashboard, with a
single dial controlling all the air conditioning functions positioned at the base of the V. The
audio unit is integrated seamlessly into the console, so only the CD slot is visible; all the
audio controls, with a joystick selector, are located on the steering wheel.
Cabin temperature controls, twin face-level air vents and an LCD display are situated inside
the arms of the V. An optional satellite navigation colour display tops off the console.
Analogue meters are clear and functional, incorporating a multi-information display showing
outside temperature and current and average fuel consumption figures.
The interior is finished in a rich chocolate-plum colour, contrasting with the silver of the
techno-organic elements. It is fully carpeted in a matching shade and features a soundabsorbing headlining.
A jewel of engineering with six major space-saving innovations

Kakushin – the revolutionary force behind iQ

Six space-saving innovations
A host of breakthroughs in engineering have combined to make iQ the world’s smallest fourseat car. Toyota acclaims iQ as an “engineering jewel” that is capable of radically changing
consumers’ opinions on small cars.
“Kakushin” - the revolutionary force behind iQ
Speaking to the Harvard Business Review, TMC President Katsuaki Watanabe said: “In
today’s world change can be produced by kaizen (continuous incremental improvement), but
when the rate of change is too slow, we have to resort to kakushin (revolutionary change or
radical innovation). I am trying to get people to make the leap from incremental improvement
to radical improvement wherever possible.”
iQ required a drastic change of mindset. Engineers not only had to re-design parts to a
smaller size, they had to reconsider their very location, too. The result is leap forward in
small-but-spacious packaging, which at the same time has been designed to meet the
highest crash test standards.
The car has a 2,000mm wheelbase with comfort ensured thanks to a 710mm distance
between the driver and front passenger seat – space that is comparable to that in a Csegment vehicle.
Even the thickness of the doors has been reduced (compared to Yaris), by using a guideless
window regulator structure rather than a conventional cross-arm type, so increasing shoulder
room.
To avoid a claustrophobic atmosphere, the A-pillars are positioned forward and slope back.
The front passenger seat can be slid far enough forward to ensure that three 190cm (6ft 3in)
tall adults plus a child or extra luggage can be comfortably accommodated. Both rear seats
can be folded down to increase boot capacity to 238 litres; with both seats in position
capacity is 32 litres (VDA measurements).
Space has also been created by locating the gearshift and parking brake almost side by side,
giving rear seat passengers more room to extend their feet between the front seats. As there
is no fuel tank beneath the rear seats, a handy concealed tray has been created so objects
can be stowed out of sight.
“In our search for space, we developed an ultra-compact air conditioning unit and
repositioned the heater blower from its usual position in the front passenger foot well to the
centre of the instrument panel. Designers then went so far as to make the glovebox
detachable. This created a significant amount of space for the front passenger seat to slide
forwards. Thin front seatbacks were also newly developed, giving them a concave form to
increase rear seat legroom. Our efforts have paid off and people who sit in iQ remark on how
spacious it feels,” says Chief Engineer Hiroki Nakajima.
iQ’s six major space-saving innovations:
1. 1. Front-mounted differential
2. Centre take-off steering gear
3. Flat underfloor fuel tank
4. Ultra-slim seat design
5. Ultra-compact heater/air conditioning unit
6. Asymmetric dashboard design
“Every millimetre we can move the pedals forward is very important. So five years ago we
embarked upon an exercise in extreme packaging improvement as part of the iQ project. And
the lessons learnt here will be applied to other, future Toyota models,” says Chief Engineer
Hiroki Nakajima.
1. Front-mounted differential
Positioning the differential in front of the engine means the distance from the tip of the
bumper to the accelerator pedal could be reduced by 120mm. This brings three main
advantages: the under-bonnet area is made more compact; the front wheels can be placed
at the very corners of the car, drastically shortening the front overhang, and the passenger
compartment gains 120mm in length (compared to Yaris).
2. Centre take-off steering
iQ has a central take-off steering gear, positioned higher and further back in the engine bay.
This meant the size of the engine compartment could be considerably reduced, further
shortening the car’s front overhang.
This is made possible because the steering rack tie-rods are connected to the centre of the
rack, rather than both ends, as in Yaris and Aygo. This gave the engineers room to
accommodate the engine underneath.
3. Flat under-floor fuel tank
The conventional fuel tank located under the rear seats has been replaced by an ultra-slim
underfloor tank that is only 120mm high. This means the rear wheels can be brought 440mm
further forward. In addition, the rear shock absorbers are angled backwards, so they don’t
encroach on rear seat space.
Traditionally a flat tank was considered difficult to engineer, because the fuel surface level
would vary depending on the angle of the car, for example when parked on a slope.
Persistent efforts to reduce size and find the best position for functioning parts has resulted
in success and a flat fuel tank that brings significant space savings and also lowers the car’s
centre of gravity.
Toyota engineers developed a special horizontal fuel pump. Fuel suction inlets in both the
fuel pump and canister and fuel level indicators are located in the centre of tank and ensure
an accurate fuel level. The tank’s 32-litre capacity is enough to give iQ a range of around 435
miles.
4. Ultra-slim seat design
The slimness of the seatbacks releases a further 40mm of rear passenger room at knee
height. An all-new structure and optimal adjustment of ancillary parts ensure the new design
saves space without sacrificing comfort. In its drive to reduce weight, Toyota created hightensile frames that save 1kg per seat.
5. Space-saving heater/air conditioning unit
Toyota engineers have succeeded in significantly reducing the size of the heater/air
conditioning unit, without diminishing performance. As a result, the passenger side of the
asymmetric dashboard could be moved forward and centrally towards the base of the
windscreen, freeing up extra cabin space.
The size of the unit has been reduced by 20 per cent without losing performance, thanks to a
smaller blower fan, re-routing of passages to improve air flow inside the unit and a more
compact air filter.
6. Asymmetric dashboard and sliding seat configuration
iQ’s innovative asymmetric dashboard design takes advantage of the relocation of the
smaller air conditioning unit to open up more space for the front passenger, with an extra
130mm of legroom. Comparable to the space available in Yaris, it allows for generous back
and forward seat adjustment. When the seat is in its furthest forward position, there is
sufficient space for the front passenger and comfortable room for an adult sitting behind.
Instead of a conventional glovebox, iQ saves more space by using a soft ‘briefcase’ that can
be detached from the fascia if desired, available as an accessory option in the UK.
Serious driving performance

Strong body with short overhangs

Weight-saving engineering

Compact, lightweight MacPherson front suspension

Torsion beam rear suspension

Electric power steering

Vehicle Stability Control with steering assist (VSC+) standard

15-inch alloy wheels
More than just the world’s smallest four-seat car, iQ delivers driving performance that is
almost unheard of in its class. It is quick and nimble for around-town driving and great fun to
push along twisting roads, while at motorway speeds it displays a level of stability that was
previously unimaginable for a car of its size.
The excellent driving dynamics have been achieved by the combination of a new platform,
suspension and steering engineering and leading-edge aerodynamics. High stability at all
speeds is maintained thanks to characteristics such as the front suspension’s high caster
angle and reduced torsional stiffness, and the amount of roll steer and rigidity maintained in
the rear suspension. In spite of its very short wheelbase, straight line stability is maintained
under emergency braking.
Thanks to the repositioning of the engine and front wheels, iQ has an extremely tight turning
radius of 3.9 metres, ideal for manoeuvring in city streets.
Strong body, short overhangs
Toyota engineers reduced iQ’s overhangs to a minimum and located most of the car’s mass
between the front and rear wheels to improve handling and vehicle controllability, a design
philosophy borrowed from racing car design that also makes iQ great fun to drive.
The prototype model underwent thousands of hours in computer simulation and wind tunnel
testing to achieve class-leading aerodynamics. The 1.0-litre VVT-i with manual transmission
has a 0.30 drag coefficient, which boosts high-speed stability and top speed while also
reducing fuel consumption and wind noise.
Weight-saving engineering
Almost every part of iQ underwent sophisticated computer simulation in the quest to reduce
weight and so achieve more rewarding driving performance and lower fuel consumption.
Particular effort was made to lighten the torsion beam and 3.5kg was saved. Another kilo of
metal was saved by using a new cross-shaped rear wheel flange.
Toyota engineers also created the world’s lightest exhaust for a front engine/front-wheel
drive car, weighing only 6kg. This was achieved by using a long tailpipe and a single, lowresonance silencer, with no additional sub-silencer. This design also contributes to iQ’s low
floor and low overall height.
MacPherson front suspension
iQ uses a new, specially designed MacPherson strut front suspension that gives a high level
of handling stability and smooth ride comfort, in spite of the car’s short wheelbase. Compact
and lightweight, it provides appropriate control for the 15-inch wheels while still returning a
class-leading turning radius.
The system features a high, 8.3-degree caster angle for more toe-out when lateral forces are
applied, giving the front wheels a more stable stance. By decreasing the stiffness of the
steering arm, toe-out is added, too, when lateral forces increase. This again adds to stability
and both measures increase understeer, while optimised geometry and damping force give
maximum ride comfort and driving stability.
Torsion beam rear suspension
The new torsion beam rear suspension was also developed exclusively for iQ and it gives
excellent stability at high speeds and through bends. A high level of rigidity minimises
steering changes from the rear suspension. Rear-end lift is also limited under heavy braking,
while bushes and shock absorbers have been optimised for ride quality and low NVH
performance.
The suspension plays its part in the car’s compact packaging concept by giving a classleading rear track. Toyota has also been able to slant the rear shock absorbers backwards,
allowing for a wider load space to be designed.
Electric Power Steering
iQ is equipped with a newly developed centre take-off steering rack and a speed-sensing
electric power steering (EPS) system of the kind more commonly found on larger cars from
the C-segment and higher. The power to the steering is controlled according to vehicle
speed, giving light response for low-speed manoeuvres and added weight as speed
increases.
Unlike traditional hydraulic systems power is only used when steering assistance is required,
which supports fuel economy as the engine does not have to maintain constant hydraulic
pressure. The 15:1 steering gear ratio gives quick response to driver inputs and good
steering feel, and ensures yaw rate gain during urban driving at low to medium speeds. A low
yaw rate gain at motorway speeds contributes to stable handling and safe braking
performance.
The EPS is also interlinked with the steering assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+). The
steering column is tilt-adjustable to suit different driver seating positions.
15-inch alloy wheels
iQ is fitted with large diameter wheels that are suited to its super-stance design. The 15-inch
alloys – with a high-gloss finish on iQ2 – are fitted with 175/65R15 low rolling resistance
Bridgestone tyres.
The combination of advanced tyres and alloy rims gives a refined drive, unlike the quality
typically found on compact cars with small wheels. In place of a spare wheel iQ is equipped
with a tyre repair kit.
Drivetrain technology

Toyota Optimal Drive concept

1.0-litre VVT-i engine available at launch

1.33-litre petrol engine with stop and start technology to join range in 2009

New Multidrive or five-speed manual transmission

CO2 emissions from 99g/km, exempt from VED/road tax
Toyota’s drive for lower CO2 emissions from its vehicles will be supported principally by a
new range of hybrid models and new petrol and diesel engines and transmissions developed
in line with the Toyota Optimal Drive concept, introduced at the 2008 Paris motor show.
Toyota Optimal Drive is designed to reduce harmful emissions and increase fuel efficiency
with no compromise on driving pleasure. It will be a standard feature of all new model
launches.
Unlike many other carmakers, Toyota has chosen to develop new technologies, rather than
simply downsize or de-tune existing ones. Following the concept of kaizen – continuous
improvement – Toyota engineers have improved combustion efficiency and reduced engine
and transmission weight and friction. The result is new powertrains that are more powerful,
yet also more efficient and economical.
At launch, UK versions of iQ will be available with a 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol engine that with
manual transmission produces 99g/km of CO2, the first time a four-seat petrol car has broken
the 100g/km mark. In summer 2009 this will be joined by a new 1.33-litre petrol engine with
stop and start technology.
A 1.4 D-4D diesel unit is available in iQ in some European markets, but there are no plans
for it to be offered in the UK.
1.0-litre VTT-i petrol engine
The three-cylinder 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol engine has an output of 67bhp (68 DIN hp) and
produces 91Nm of torque at 4,800rpm. With the high-ratio five-speed manual gearbox it
returns fuel economy of 65.7mpg and CO2 emissions of just 99g/km. The engine can also be
specified with Toyota’s new Multidrive continuously variable transmission, which raises
emissions to 110g/km.
Already featured in Aygo, the unit was winner of the 2008 Engine of the Year title in the sub1.0-litre class. To suit the specific requirements of iQ, the engine was adapted to slant 21.5
degrees forward. The intake manifold was reshaped, an air cleaner was integrated into the
fan shroud and the air conditioning compressor was relocated as part of the car’s packaging
concept.
VTT-i (variable valve timing – intelligent) ensures the engine breathes with maximum
efficiency in all conditions and achieves the most efficient fuel combustion. The result is
maximum power generation, improved fuel economy, lower emissions and better throttle
response.
Fuel economy is also supported by electrical Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and the use
of low viscosity lubricating oil. A plastic water jacket spacer is located in the cylinder,
controlling water flow to give an even cylinder surface temperature and reduce the oil film
thickness. This gives improved oil viscosity at the bottom of the cylinder, reducing piston
friction.
Eco driving
Tyres with low rolling resistance are fitted to the manual 1.0-litre iQ to help keep emissions
down to 99g/km. An Eco driving indicator also helps low emissions by showing when the
driver is using the accelerator efficiently. There is also a Gear Shift Indicator which helps the
driver time up and down shifts to optimise environmental performance. The system takes
driving conditions into account, including the level of pressure on the accelerator and vehicle
speed. Changing gears in line with the indicator can yield a 0.5 to three per cent reduction in
fuel consumption compared to normal shift patterns, although the real potential for
improvement is dependent on the driving habits of individual drivers.
Multidrive
Toyota’s Multidrive produces a very smooth shift while optimising the balance of fuel
economy and performance. The CVT system automatically selects the most appropriate gear
ratio and shifting speed, eliminating ‘shift shock’ and it maximises available engine torque
without unnecessary acceleration. For example, it will limit shifts when driving uphill and
execute downhill shifts to optimise engine braking. Multidrive has the city-friendly
characteristics of automatic transmission with strong urban cycle fuel consumption
performance.
Advanced safety technologies

ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

Brake Assist (BA) and Traction Control (TRC)

Steering Assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+)

Multi-load path body structure

Engineered to meet Euro NCAP five-star standard

Nine airbags, including world-first rear window curtain shield airbag
Toyota’s goal is to work towards a future society in which traffic accidents and the injuries
they cause have been eliminated. Safety is key feature of iQ, a model that benefits from a
number of new technologies.
With the aim of helping the driver avoid an accident happening in the first place, iQ is
equipped with ABS as standard. This provides the platform for a number of other more
advanced braking and traction control systems, also fitted as standard to all versions.
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) works with the ABS to ensure the most effective
brake force is applied to each wheel, according to road conditions. By preventing the wheels
from locking, EBD helps maintain stability when braking during cornering.
Research shows that many drivers fail to apply sufficient pressure on the brake pedal in
emergency braking situations, or they release pressure too soon. The Brake Assist (BA)
system on iQ anticipates the need for extra braking and applies it automatically to ensure
consistent, maximum braking performance.
Traction Control (TRC) is an important aid to maintaining grip when driving on slippery or
uneven surfaces. The system monitors and controls the amount of power applied to the road
through the vehicle’s wheels and detects if one or more wheels start to spin and lose traction.
The skid control computer automatically decreases the amount of power being sent to the
wheel that is about to spin; in more extreme cases, it might apply braking force momentarily
until the wheel regains traction.
Steering Assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+) prevents loss of car control in certain
situations, for example when entering a bend too fast and encountering slippery conditions
that could cause a skid. Sensors around the vehicle monitor wheel rotation, brake pressure
and car movement. If the system calculates the driver is about to lose control of the car,
various stability and safety systems are applied to an appropriate degree. In a skid, for
example, it will apply a suitable level of braking and adjust steering torque to help the driver
regain control.
Multi-load path body structure
The quality of the passenger protection cell is a critical engineering feature of any small car.
For the new iQ, Toyota engineered its multi-load path body system to provide an excellent
degree of occupant protection. In the event of a collision, iQ uses a system of six
countermeasures to overcome the effects of an impact.
1. The engine is placed towards the rear of the engine bay, giving more room for an
energy absorbing structure at the front of the front side members. In a heavy collision,
the engine can also function as a barrier, reducing impact on the passenger cell.
2. The location of the front wheels/tyres right at the front of the car provides valuable
initial protection in a frontal collision.
3. Total energy absorption capacity has been increased by using the suspension
member side rail in addition to the standard collision area formed by the front side
member.
4. By attaching the rear part of the front suspension member to the body in four places,
the load from the front side members can be transmitted to the cross member.
5. Body strength has been further increased by directly connecting the front side
members and the rocker together.
6. Strengthening across the dashboard means impact forces towards the cabin can be
more evenly and effectively distributed.
7.
Class-leading collision performance ambition
iQ has an all-new, high-rigidity platform with a robust safety structure capable of absorbing a
high degree of impact energy. It has been created with the express aim of achieving classleading safety in full-frontal, offset, side and rear collisions. In addition iQ is intended to
achieve a maximum five-star adult occupant protection rating and three-star pedestrian
protection standard in Euro NCAP crash testing.
Nine airbags
Nine airbags are fitted as standard to iQ to give world class safety performance. The airbags
comprise seven different types: a world-first rear window curtain shield airbag, two side
airbags, a front passenger seat cushion airbag, a driver’s knee airbag, two curtain shield
airbags and a driver and front passenger front airbags.
All were developed specifically for the car, following the principle of miniaturisation to suit
operation in the smaller cabin without compromising safety. This means the side airbags are
larger than usual, and the others smaller.
Given the size of iQ’s cabin, the knee airbag is positioned closer to the driver, which means
both size and deployment time can be reduced. The driver front airbag is also tailored to take
the car’s interior dimensions into account.
A new kind of twin-chamber bag was developed for the front passenger front airbag, a worldfirst for this class of car. First seen on Lexus models, this design ‘catches’ the passenger and
cradles the face between the two sections, so that the passenger actually travels slightly
further forward in a collision than the driver.
The front passenger seat cushion airbag is the first of its kind in a Toyota. It inflates under
the thighs and inhibits movement of the hip with the seatbelt, reducing any impact on the
head and chest.
The driver and front passenger sit close to the doors and could thus be more vulnerable to
injury in a side collision. The side airbags are divided into silicon-coated bags with different
pressures to provide appropriate protection for the pelvis (high pressure) and chest area
(lower pressure).
Large curtain shield airbags are installed above the front and rear windows on each side of
the car to provide further protection in the event of a side impact.
iQ is the first model on the market to feature a curtain shield airbag along the rear window.
As there is only a small space between the window and the heads of rear seat passengers,
the airbag provides protection in a rear impact. It deploys first between the roof panel and
headlining, then from the edge of the headlining along the rear window.
To help protect the youngest passengers, Isofix child seat mounts are fitted to the rear seats.
Grade structure and pricing

Two grades – iQ and iQ2

Three metallic colours – White Pearl, Black and Deep Amethyst

High level of standard equipment

Leather-covered low profile steering wheel

Six-speaker audio system with MP3/WMA capability and auxiliary socket

On-the-road prices from £9,495

Available to order now, with customer deliveries from January 2009
It may be one of the smallest cars on the market, but iQ demands no “make-do”
compromises when it comes to equipment specifications.
iQ is available in two grades, iQ and iQ2, both of which are unusually well-equipped, with
advanced features more commonly found only on much larger cars. Initially the model will be
offered with a choice of three metallic paint finishes (White Pearl, Black and Deep Amethyst),
which will be free of charge for orders taken before 1 March 2009.
Order books are open now, with first deliveries to customers in January 2009. Prices start at
£9,495, with a £1,000 price premium for Multidrive transmission.
iQ pricing and VED bands
Model
Otr Price
CO2 Emissions
Ved Band
iQ 1.0 VVT-i manual
£9,495
99g/km
A
iQ 1.0 VVT-i Multidrive
£10,495
110g/km
B
iQ2 1.0 VVT-i manual
£10,495
99g/km
A
iQ2 1.0 VVT-i Multidrive
£11,495
110g/km
B
User-friendly interior
iQ’s seats have a distinctive design, with slim seatbacks and integrated headrests. They offer
plenty of comfort and are actually wider and offer more back support than those in Yaris.
Access to the rear is made easy thanks to large handles on the side of both front seats,
which can both be slid forward and aft on smooth, solid rails. The slide length for the front
passenger seat is 50mm greater than for the driver’s seat.
The rear seat area features three-point seatbelts, Isofix child seat anchors and two
cupholders. There is room for passengers to stretch their feet out between the front seats,
thanks to the clever side-by-side positioning of the gear lever and parking brake. In the front
there is a central cupholder and a bottle holder in each door.
A storage tray is concealed beneath the rear seats, which, together with a deck box behind
the seats, provides room for items to be carried without compromising cabin space. For extra
luggage capacity the 50:50 split rear seats can be folded flat.
Aspirational specifications
The entry-level iQ rides on 15-inch alloy wheels and projects a clean, contemporary
appearance with colour-keyed door mirrors and bumpers and heated electrically adjustable
door mirrors with integrated indicator lamps.
Air conditioning keeps things cool inside, while the six-speaker sound system provides a
radio, CD player and MP3/WMA file playing from disc. There is also an auxiliary socket for
connection of personal MP3 players. Electric windows, remote central locking, dark tinted
privacy glass in the rear window and leather trim for the low-profile steering wheel and gear
knob are also all included, together with a tonneau cover for the rear luggage space.
The flat-bottom steering wheel design (taking 10mm off the radius) helps give the driver more
legroom. All the audio controls are located on the steering wheel with an innovative joystick
controller, saving space on the central instrument cluster. Volume audio source and channel
selection are presented in the multi-information display in front of the driver. The speaker
configuration features seamlessly integrated twin front and rear units and 2.5cm tweeters by
the interior door handles.
White energy-saving LEDs are used in a lighting module above the front seats, giving iQ a
calm and elegant interior ambience. The module provides one-and-half times more light than
a conventional unit and pivots to give wider illumination as required.
Upgrading to iQ2 brings even more sophisticated features. The alloys gain a high-gloss
finish, fog lights are neatly integrated into lower front bumper section and there are bihalogen headlights with a smoke-tinted finish to their glass covers. The door mirrors are
electronically retractable – handy for those ultra-tight parking spots iQ drivers will be making
the most of.
Climate control air conditioning, smart entry and push-button start, automatic headlights and
wipers and an auto-dimming rear view mirror raise the quality bar even higher.
iQ equipment specification highlights
iQ
iQ2 adds
15-inch alloy wheels
High gloss 15-inch alloy wheels
Manual air conditioning
Climate control air conditioning
Electrically adjustable heated door mirrors
with integrated turn indicators
Electrically adjustable and retractable heated
door mirrors with integrated turn indicators
Remote central locking
Smart Entry and Smart Start
Colour keyed door mirrors and bumpers
Rain-sensing wipers
LED rear stop lamp
Dusk-sensing headlights
Electrochromatic auto-dimming rear view
mirror
Bi-halogen headlamps with smoke-finished
covers
Leather-trimmed low profile steering wheel
Chrome rear light cluster trim
Six-speaker audio system with radio, CD
player and MP3/WMA compatibility from disc
Auxiliary socket for MP3 player connection
Audio controls on steering wheel
Tilt-adjustable steering wheel
Electric windows
Rear window privacy glass
Tonneau cover
ABS with EBD and BA
VSC+ with TRC
Nine airbags
Accessories and options
iQ owners looking for an upgrade will be able to add extra touches to their vehicle from a
range of three bespoke accessory packs.



iStyle: exterior styling elements, including chrome side sills, rear chrome garnish and
aluminium scuff plates.
iSports: sports styling features, including rear roof spoiler, rear skirt and chrome
exhaust pipe finisher.
iUrban: comprises rear parking sensors, reversible velour/rubber boot liner and carpet
mats.
With such a high standard specification on iQ and iQ2, there are just two extra-cost options:
leather seat upholstery and a fully integrated satellite navigation system with Bluetooth and
iPod integration.
Accessorypack/Option
Price
iStyle
£250
iSports
£400
iUrban
£350
Leather seat upholstery
£700
Satellite navigation
£950
Low NVH and legendary Toyota quality

Acoustic windshield

Advanced aerodynamics to reduce turbulence and noise

High-quality materials and finish
To achieve a refined feel that goes beyond all other small cars, Toyota paid meticulous
attention to the quality of finish and detailing on iQ inside and out. The consistency and
quality of the design elements create an edgy, refined feel in line with the “On-the-Edge”
design concept.
To achieve a high level of NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) performance, iQ goes
beyond achieving class-leading interior quietness by delicately balancing the amount of road,
engine and wind noise to control sound quality inside the cabin.
Triple-layer acoustic windshield
iQ features an advanced, triple-layer acoustic windshield, which insulates the cabin and
reduces noise intrusion. The laminate glass is designed to block out noise, with a soft
interlayer sandwiched between the glass. This interlayer is made up of a prevention film
between two layers of standard film. The result is a reduction in noise level by up to 20 per
cent in the mid to high-frequency range.
Engineers also developed a clever way of using the air gap between the bonnet panel
insulation and the engine cover to improve insulation of sound from the engine.
Advanced aerodynamics
A closer look at iQ reveals many intelligent design features that combine to reduce drag,
noise and fuel consumption. The complete aerodynamic package gives iQ a very low drag
coefficient, starting at 0.30.
The attention to detail can be witnessed all around the car. Protrusions on the front bumper
not only protect the car in tight parking spaces, but also deflect airflow towards the top of the
vehicle to reduce drag. Underfloor panels cover the fuel tank and rear floor pan, further
reducing drag and lowering noise. Less obvious to spot is a cover on the radiator supports
that cuts turbulence, with strategically placed spats having the same effect around the tyres
and wheels.
By making the A-pillar moulding thicker and wider, the gap between the pillar and its mould
has been reduced, giving a smoother airflow to the rear of the vehicle. Toyota also ensured
A-pillar blind spots were reduced to give the driver better all-round visibility. Each C-pillar is
fitted with a deflector fin that reduces the drag coefficient by preventing air from ‘sticking’ to
the car’s rear end.
The wheelarches are lined and fitted with spats to cut turbulence as the wheels rotate.
Toyota also developed a special foam material to insulate the frame cavities and thus reduce
noise.
Based on the results of wind tunnel testing, underfloor panels were fitted to iQ to improve
aerodynamics and, again, reduce noise. All round, panel gaps are kept to a minimum, as
smaller gaps mean less turbulence.
High-quality materials and finish
Everything inside iQ communicates a message of quality, from the leather-covered threespoke steering wheel to the sculpted centre console. The mouldings, materials and finish are
of C-segment quality levels. The textured mouldings of the dashboard contrast with wovenstyle polymer mouldings around the central instrument cluster and there is a soft-touch
quality to key elements, such as the curved surface of the dashboard and the gearshift and
parking brake trim.
Matching silver paint is applied to the centre console, giving a clean, modern appearance,
with the silver coloured door handles adding to the flowing ‘manta ray’ styling. All materials
were carefully selected by Toyota and subjected to testing in extreme conditions.
TOYOTA iQ TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE
Engine code
Type
1.0 VVT-i
1KR-FE
Three cylinders in-line
Valvetrain
12-valve DOHC, chain drive with VVT-i
Fuel type
Premium unleaded (95 RON)
Capacity (cc)
996
Bore x stroke (mm)
71.0 x 83.9
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Max. Power (bhp/kW @ rpm)
Max. Torque (Nm @ rpm)
TRANSMISSION
67/50 @ 6,000
91 @ 4,800
5-speed manual
Gear ratios
1st
3.538
2nd
1.913
3rd
1.310
4th
1.029
5th
0.875
Reverse
3.333
PERFORMANCE
Max. Speed (mph)
0-62mph acceleration (sec)
FUEL CONSUMPTION & EMISSIONS
1.0 VVT-i
93
14.7
1.0 VVT-i
Combined (mpg)
65.7
Urban (mpg)
57.7
Extra-urban (mpg)
72.4
Fuel tank capacity (l)
32
CO2 emissions (g/km)
99
VED band
A
BRAKES
Front
Ventilated discs
Rear
Solid discs
Additional features
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist,
Vehicle Stability Control
SUSPENSION
Front
MacPherson strut
Rear
Torsion beam
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS
Overall length (mm)
2,985
Overall width (mm)
1,680
Overall height (mm)
1,500
Wheelbase
2,000
Track – front (mm)
1,480
Track – rear (mm)
1,460
Front overhang (mm)
530
Rear overhang (mm)
455
Interior length (mm)
1,238
Interior width (mm)
1,515
Interior height (mm)
1,145
VDA
luggage
capacity
Rear seats up (l)
32
One rear seat folded (l)
168
Both rear seats folded (l)
242
Drag coefficient (Cd)
Kerb weight (kg)
Gross vehicle weight (kg)
0.299
845 – 880
1,200
STEERING
Type
Rack & pinion, Electric Power Steering
Ratio
15.3:1
Min. Turning radius – tyre (m)
3.9
Min. Turning radius – body (m)
4.2
TOYOTA iQ EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS
SAFETY
Driver airbag
Front passenger twin chamber airbag
Front side airbags
Driver’s knee airbag
iQ




iQ2




Front passenger seat cushion airbag
Curtain shield airbags
Rear window airbag
Isofix child seat fixings – rear seats
Passenger airbag cut-off switch
Front and rear seatbelt reminder system
Front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Four three-point seatbelts with Emergency Locking Retractor
ABS with EBD and Brake Assist
Steering Assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+) with Traction Control
(TRC)
Multi-load path body structure
INSTRUMENTS & CONTROLS
Trip computer
Tachometer
Smart entry and push-button start
Satellite navigation with Bluetooth and USB slot
Low profile steering wheel
COMFORT & CONVENIENCE
Electric windows
Dusk-sensing headlights
Rain-sensing windscreen wipers
Electrochromatic auto-dimming rear view mirror
Tilt adjustable steering wheel
Electric Power Steering (EPS)
LED interior lighting
AUDIO
Six-speaker RDS Radio/CD player with MP3/WMA file playing from
disc
Audio control “joystaick” mounted on steering wheel
Auxiliary audio socket for portable equipment connection
VENTILATION
Manual air conditioning
Automatic air conditioning
SECURITY
Transponder key engine immobiliser
Remote central locking
Alloy wheels with locking wheelnuts
STORAGE
Concealed storage tray beneath rear seats
Detachable “briefcase” glovebox
Tonneau cover
SEATING UPHOLSTERY & TRIM
Recline and slide adjustable front seats
50:50 folding rear seats
Leather steering wheel and gear knob trim
Leather upholstery





















iQ





iQ







iQ


iQ2



Opt

iQ2







iQ2



iQ


iQ



iQ



iQ






iQ2


iQ2



iQ2



iQ2



Opt
EXTERIOR
15-inch alloy wheels
16-inch high-gloss alloy wheels
Colour-keyed door handles and mirrors
Rear privacy glass
Electrically adjustable door mirrors
Heated, retractable door mirrors
Turn indicators integrated in door mirrors
Front fog lamps
LED stop lamp
Smoke-finished headlamp glass
Bi-halogen headlights
Chrome rear light cluster surround
iQ












iQ2











