18.09.2009
Toyota describe the iQ as “..the world’s smallest four-seat production car” and whilst technically there are four seats to play with, you’d better not need to carry any luggage at the same time. Undeterred by the iQ’s limitations as an MPV, Toyota have decided to show us that it could perhaps become the most funky 4-seater on the market.
First up is the iQ Collection which focuses on changes to the cabin. The white pearl finish of the body is carried through to trim details such as the centre console, instrument binnacle and door panels whilst the leather upholstery is a matching white shade, with a central seat panel design exclusive to the show model. The iQ Collection also comes with a fully glazed roof, so there will be no hiding at the traffic lights.
Our personal favourite though is the iQ for Sports. There is no denying this is all about ‘urban style’, fitted with a bespoke body kit that accentuates the iQ’s broad stance and a set of custom-made 18-inch alloys that look massive within the iQ’s diminutive wheelbase. The iQ for Sports also comes with a rear roof spoiler, trapezoidal central exhaust, illuminated door handles and a swivelling spotlight on top of the dash. The seats are finished in bright green and grey upholstery, with contrasting bolsters in a matt-black ‘scuba-style’ polyurethene.
While this iQ for Sports is likely to remain a show car, let’s hope that some of it’s styling elements will be found at a Toyota dealer near you soon.
About Steve Davies
Steve is a media, venture, and technology advisor and a former Partner at KPMG Consulting, PriceWaterhouse Coopers and Managing Partner at EIM - his clients range from global web and media companies to small start-ups. He formed Drivers Republic (DR) in 2007, the UK's first digital automotive magazine, with a team of EVO and Autocar writers before creating SkiddMark, and also writes as a guest contributor on Unruly Media’s Meme Machine blog and for Econsultancy’s digital marketing blog.
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