2014 Scion iQ Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Lilliputian is the first word that comes to mind with a look at Scion’s 2014 iQ 2-door subcompact hatchback. And yet that word could be...

Lilliputian is the first word that comes to mind with a look at Scion’s 2014 iQ 2-door subcompact hatchback. And yet that word could be used advisedly, since this Toyota-based mini-car is significantly longer and wider than its closest rival, the new Smart ForTwo. The iQ can also carry up to 4 passengers in 2 rows of seating, albeit everyone will have to leave their baggage at home, since cargo space is a mere 16.7 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded. Let’s face it, cars like Scion’s iQ iterations and their Smart(car) peers are designed to comfortably seat 2 and with city traffic and parking challenges in mind, not the windblown open road.

In any case, the pint-size iQ comes in two trims for 2014, the Base and the limited-production Scion 10 Series, which commemorates Scion’s tenth year in existence. Both trims are, as is traditional, front-wheel-drive only (FWD), and both sport a standard 1.3-liter inline 4-cylinder so-called “powerplant.” Mated with a slick continuously variable transmission (CVT), this glorified lawnmower engine puts out 94 hp and 89 lb-ft of torque, while variable valve timing (VVT) helps keep mileage at a pretty darned decent 36 mpg city/37 highway.

Standard appearance features on the Scion iQ Base include 16-inch steel wheels and power-adjustable mirrors. Cabin bling, meantime, includes cloth upholstery, split-folding rear seatbacks, remote power door locks, power windows and tilt-wheel steering. Simulated alloy dashboard trim and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are complemented by air conditioning, floor mats in front, rear and cargo area, and a single-CD player with 6 premium Pioneer speakers and a USB port. Oh, and Bluetooth hands-free calling also comes standard on this half-size hatchback, while audio and communications functions are interfaced with a new-for-2014 6-inch dashboard display.

The Scion 10 Series, meanwhile, adds upgraded carpeted floor and cargo mats, 16-inch alloy wheels, illuminated front console panels and badges, and a solar-powered illuminated shift knob.

Options run the gamut from TRD (Toyota Racing Division) sway bars and lowering springs to a rear spoiler, added interior illumination and satellite radio. Scion’s touted BeSpoke audio integration is also available and includes a navigation system and smartphone apps.

Finally, Scion’s micro-hatchback boasts such standard safety features as 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS) with a front disc and rear drum setup, as well as traction and stability control. Of course airbags are positioned at the front and to both front sides, not to mention front and rear head airbags. Additionally, turn-signal-integrated mirrors are standard in both trims, while front fog/driving lights are optional for each.