The 2012 Scion iQ delivers the type of driving experience you would expect from a microcar. The higher fuel economy coupled with a tight turning radius provides an excellent vehicle for those who do a lot of city driving and park in tight spaces.
Key Features
The 2012 Scion iQ features some important amenities for those who want the parking convenience and fun driving of a microcar. This model actually provides seating for four, thanks to the positioning of the center stack and dash paired with the offset passenger seat. There are also a host of standard features, such as keyless entry, power mirrors, locks and windows, and a 160-watt HD Pioneer sound system. There are also numerous accessories available, including an aero kit, navigation and TRD springs.
Changes for 2012
This is the first model year for the 2012 Scion iQ, and so far the introduction has delivered a fun to drive vehicle that delivers acceptable driving performance and comfort for the class.
What We Like
No matter how you look at it, this microcar is all about the attention and tight turning radius. However, the fact that it can hold up to four passengers (short trips only is highly recommended), you can also fold down the seats to open 16.7 cubic feet of available cargo space. While this isn’t much, it’s better than what is available in other vehicles in the class.
What Concerns Us
The 2012 Scion iQ is not the most comfortable to drive or ride in – especially on long trips. While the gas mileage is good, it is a bit lower than what you might get in some larger compact vehicles.
Available Models
There is only one model available for the front wheel drive iQ. The 1.4-liter 4-cylinder delivers 94 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 89 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm. It also offers 36/37 mpg city/highway fuel economy.
Major Recalls
There is one major recall issued for the 2012 Scion iQ. On some models, the Occupant Classification System cable could be damaged when moving the passenger seat. If the cable is damaged, it could result in the airbags not deploying properly or at all.
Common Issues
The most common complaints associated with this microcar are due to the airbags failing to deploy during crashes, even after the recall for the cable issue was completed. Other complaints were due to the overall lack of power when cold, which prevented the car from moving up steep inclines.
