The New Toyota iQ3
Published: 18th June 2009
The New Toyota iQ3
Toyota's iQ range is extended for the first time since launch with the introduction to the line-up of a 1.33-litre engine. The highly efficient lightweight unit, already successfully deployed in the Toyota Auris, Yaris and Urban Cruiser is offered exclusively in the new Toyota iQ3 model.
Benefiting from Toyota Optimal Drive technology for a class-leading combination of power, fuel economy and low emissions, it uses Dual VVT-i control of both intake and exhaust valves to deliver strong torque at low to medium engine speeds and achieve maximum efficiency.
The headline figures broadcast the exceptional customer benefits in terms of running costs. With manual transmission, the Toyota iQ3 returns an official 58.9mpg in combined cycle driving, and 113g/km of CO2 - Band B for road tax (£35 annual charge) - both of which are best-in-class figures. Equipped with Toyota's new Multidrive CVT system, fuel economy is just as good, while emissions rise slightly to 120g/km, but remain within Band B.
This achievement is not at the expense of performance. The engine develops a maximum 98bhp at 6,000rpm and peak torque of 125Nm at 4,400rpm. Nought to 62mph can be achieved in 11.8 seconds (11.6 with Multidrive) and top speed is 106mph. This underlines the fact that the Toyota iQ is more than just a city runabout, giving a strong, stable and enjoyable drive at motorway speeds.
Matched to a compact, lightweight six-speed manual gearbox, the engine features Toyota's Stop & Start system. This automatically cuts the engine when the car comes to a stop and the gear shift is moved to neutral; when a gear is selected, the engine restarts quickly (in just 0.4 seconds) and seamlessly, thanks to the use of a permanently engaged gear mechanism. In urban driving - the Toyota iQ's natural environment - Stop & Start can yield fuel consumption savings of up to 15 per cent.
The Toyota iQ3 is also available with Multidrive, Toyota's new stepless CVT (continuously variable transmission).
One of the key elements of the 1.33-litre engine is its piston design. Smaller and lighter than on the previous 1.3 unit, they are designed with a smaller contact area and use carbon ceramide, an advanced material more commonly used in Formula One engineering, to reduce friction.
The Toyota iQ3 carries forward the premium specification of iQ2 but with some additional, exclusive features: the door mirrors have chrome-finished housings and the car rides on larger, 16-inch dual five-spoke alloy wheels. The choice of six paint finishes includes Decuma Grey metallic, which is also exclusive to the Toyota iQ3.
The standard equipment features include automatic headlights and wipers, climate control, electric folding and heated door mirrors, Smart Entry and Start, auto-dimming rear view mirror, six-speaker sound system, front fog lights and a leather trimmed steering wheel. Nine airbags are fitted, including the world's first rear window airbag, and the active safety package includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRC).
The Toyota iQ3 is on sale now. On-the-road prices are £11,495 for the six-speed manual version and £12,495 with Multidrive.
Toyota iQ
Our Toyota iQ Guide lists the full specification of the current UK iQ range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £9,615 - £11,615
Body Style:
Fuel:
Models in the range: 3
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 14th Oct 2009
