MSRP: $15,265 - $15,265
Invoice: $14,501 - $14,501
MPG: 36 City / 37 Hwy
The 2012 Scion iQ ranks 20 out of 40 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 9 published reviews and test drives of the Scion iQ, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2012 Scion iQ isn’t fast, but reviewers say it’s the perfect car for cruising city streets and slipping into tight spaces.
According to the automotive press, the Smart Fortwo has finally met its match with the 2012 Scion iQ. The iQ is a bit larger than the Fortwo (and has a back seat), and reviewers say the iQ is better in nearly every aspect. Scion packs a host of standard safety features, including a suite of 11airbags with knee airbags for the driver and front passenger and a rear window curtain airbag. It also has a ton of standard features and an engine that's more powerful than the Fortwo’s.
While the press agrees that the iQ surpasses the Fortwo by leaps and bounds, they say it struggles in a few areas. The two rear seats are cramped, and with back-seat passengers, there’s very little cargo space. The feature they dislike most is the standard Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that eliminates the iQ from any fun-to-drive contests.
But test drivers understand that these are some of the sacrifices shoppers in the market for a subcompact car will have to make. If you’re willing to exchange performance and utility for something that is a cinch to whip around town, reviewers think you’ll be pleased with the 2012 Scion iQ.
Other Cars to Consider
While reviewers prefer the Scion iQ over the Smart Fortwo, you might be drawn to the Fortwo’s base price, which is significantly less than the iQ’s. The Fortwo, however, isn’t as well-equipped as the iQ, and doesn’t come standard with as many airbags or basics like air conditioning, a radio or power windows. The Fortwo also only seats two and has less cargo space. But, if you need a runabout that’s less expensive than the iQ and you don’t drive on the highway much, the Fortwo may be just want you need.
The 2012 Scion iQ is ideal for maneuvering cities, but with tight rear seats and little cargo space, you might prefer a small sedan or hatchback like the Kia Rio. The Kia Rio is great for people with the occasional rear passenger who need plenty of space for trips to the airport and the grocery store. The Kia Rio is less expensive than the iQ, and can be equipped with similar features like Bluetooth and a USB port.
Details: 2012 Scion iQ
The 2012 Scion iQ is an all-new subcompact that’s available in one trim. See the full list of 2012 Scion iQ specs.
- "Here’s what the new Scion iQ has going for it: It’s tiny outside, but not so small inside. Four people can wedge in when necessary. It’s good-looking, the interior design is about the best of any cheap car, and the seats are comfortable. The suspension is simple, but it works well, and the precise steering and its size make the iQ super easy to park." -- Car and Driver
- "The 2012 Scion iQ really does suit an urban environment, where its size makes it a great fit for everything from parking spaces to errands through city traffic. It's a car that makes everything easy, even if it's not exactly fun." --Edmunds
- "But where the ForTwo falls woefully short, the iQ steps up in every conceivable metric. It drives better, it looks better and it's better suited to both bouncing around town and taking a day-trip on the freeway." -- Autoblog
Pros and Cons
- Impressive standard features list
- Easy to park
- Comfortable front seats
- Boring automatic transmission
- Tight rear seat
- Little cargo space with back seat passengers
iQ Performance - 7.0 (Good)
The 2012 Scion iQ doesn’t have a lot of power, but reviewers say it is very easy to park.
iQ Exterior - 7.5 (Good)
The automotive press calls the 2012 Scion iQ everything from attractive to stubby.
iQ Interior - 6.8 (Mediocre)
The 2012 Scion iQ has a ton of standard features, but rear seat space is lacking.
iQ Safety - NA
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the federal government haven’t tested the 2012 Scion iQ yet, but this small car is packed with impressive safety features.
iQ Reliability - NA
The 2012 Scion iQ has a basic warranty and a powertrain warranty that are typical of the class.
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