Subcompact Culture

Scion announces 2010 xD pricing, new features

2009-07-08T15:50:00.000-07:00

Scion has announced pricing of the 2010 xD, which now comes standard with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). The base price of an xD will go up $150 to $14,800—and you get a lot for your money.

In addition to VSC, the '10 xD will also get an all-new Pioneer audio system. With AM/FM/CD/USB 160-watt maximum, the new gear also gets an organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen, iPod^®/USB connectivity, Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR), and a subwoofer RCA output.

Audiophiles looking for upgraded factory soundgear may want to check out the optional Alpine system, which has the same amenities as the Pioneer system, but adds a 4.3" color touch panel thin-film-transistor (TFT) screen, HD Radio™ technology, Media Expander (MX) and both front and rear RCA outputs.

I've always liked the xD, and although sales have been down sharply from last year, people who do opt for the smallest Scion get plenty of bang for the buck.

Full press release below:

Scion Announces Pricing for 2010 xD That Receives New Audio System, Vehicle Stability Control Standard

Torrance, CA – July 8, 2010 – Scion today announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2010 xD five-door urban subcompact. The xD rolls into its third model year with new standard and optional audio systems and also gains standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

The enhancements to the 2010 xD come with a modest MSRP increase of $150. The base MSRP for the xD is $14,800 when equipped with a manual transmission and $15,600 with an automatic transmission.

New and Upgraded Audio System

The xD’s new standard AM/FM/CD/USB 160-watt maximum output Pioneer audio system receives additional functionality for 2010. New features include an organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen, iPod®/USB connectivity, Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR), and a subwoofer RCA output. The standard Pioneer system has a USB port and universal auxiliary (AUX) port located on the center console that allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the xD’s six Pioneer speakers.

Connectivity is achieved by simply plugging the portable music player, including iPod® and iPhone®, into the USB or AUX port. The head unit’s screen displays track number, track name and artist information from select USB units. The audio system provides outstanding sound quality through the car’s stereo system and constant power to select iPods. Music is controlled through the head unit and the steering wheel audio control buttons for radio, CD and certain USB devices; iPod® users can also use an alphabetical speed search to find a specific artist or album.

The ASR function restores a wide, deep and rich quality to MP3/WMA/AAC sound. Through the subwoofer RCA output, xD owners can add an external amplifier to drive one or more subwoofers. For easy operation, the system’s multi selector allows for easy control of the head unit. Unique to the standard Pioneer audio system is the customizable welcome screen that also lets users create a personal message of up to 16 characters.

The optional Alpine Premium audio system has the same basic features as the standard Pioneer audio system, but it adds a 4.3-inch color touch panel thin-film-transistor (TFT) screen, HD Radio™ technology, Media Expander (MX) and both front and rear RCA outputs. Passengers can listen to HD Radio™ broadcasting with the premium audio system and view text, song titles, album and artist name on the head unit. Alpine’s MX technology improves the compressed audio sound often found on digital music. The RCA outputs allow for up to three amplifiers -- front, rear and subwoofer. The optional audio system is also back-up camera and navigation ready.

Scion also offers an optional plug-in navigation unit for the Alpine Premium audio system. Navigation and audio functions utilize the head-unit screen for display. Features include voice guidance; day and night screen modes; support in English, French and Spanish; 200 available address book entries; map coverage across the U.S. and Canada including Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Hawaii; three map views (3-D, north up, and heading up); and more than six million points of interest. Users can also program up to three destinations before arriving at their final programmed stop. Scion makes this navigation unit customizable by allowing the user to change the vehicle position icon from an arrow to an icon of the xD, which can be customized in every xD exterior color.

Both the standard and premium head units retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing (SSP) where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility and MP3, AAC and WMA capability. In addition, both units adjust the volume control based on driving speed. The sound systems feature six speakers: a tweeter and a speaker in each front door panel, plus two full-range speakers in the rear.

Aggressive Styling

The xD’s distinct exterior is characterized by aggressive styling— a wide stance, thick muscular body, a long and narrow back window, accentuated wheel flares, an integrated rectangular lower and upper grille, and horizontal headlamps. The xD also features side mirrors with integrated turn signals. The xD rolls on 16-inch steel wheels and 195/60 R16 tires. Customers can choose from three standard wheel covers, which are also shared with the xB.

Fun-To-Drive

The xD’s 1.8-L four-cylinder engine with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) generates 128 horsepower. This engine features a roller-rocker system and lightweight pistons for better fuel economy, and a piston-cooling oil jet for better efficiency. Customers have the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The xD sits on a short, wide frame for a pleasing ride. To help enhance control, the xD features an L-arm type MacPherson strut in the front and torsion beam suspension in the rear. The xD stops with front-ventilated disc and rear-drum brakes.

Interior Details

The instrument panel features indicator lamps, an LCD fuel gauge, odometer and a unique, radar-like speedometer and tachometer. The digital clock, and HVAC and audio controls flow down the center console.

Storage and cargo space is plentiful with the xD. The driver has easy access to a change box and storage tray located beneath the steering wheel. The xD also has a small box in the front of the center console for holding portable music players or cell phones, an upper and lower glove box, and a hidden storage space located below the rear-cargo area. The xD also features 60/40 fold flat rear seats for a level cargo space.

For versatility, leg room and added cargo space, the rear seats can slide forward and back up to six inches. The rear seats also can recline ten degrees and be adjusted into five different positions for additional comfort.

Mono-spec Features

Like all Scion vehicles the xD comes mono-spec with a surprising array of standard features. Customers only need to choose exterior color and transmission type. The xD’s standard features include power steering, windows, door locks and mirrors; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA); Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC); a tire pressure monitor system; driver and front-passenger dual-stage airbags; front-seat-mounted side airbags; front and rear side-curtain airbags; cruise control; first-aid kit; and tilt steering wheel with audio controls.

All Scion models come with complimentary factory-recommended maintenance services at the first 5,000 mile and 10,000 mile intervals, to be performed by an authorized Scion or Toyota dealership.

Color Availability

The xD is available in seven exterior colors, Super White, Silver Streak Mica, Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic, Nautical Blue Metallic and the all-new Black Currant Metallic. The interior features a high-quality dark charcoal fabric.

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $670 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

LINKS
Scion.com
Scionlife.com

Tachometer increases fuel economy

2009-07-08T09:38:00.000-07:00

In late May, I added a tachometer to my 2007 Yaris. I figured it'd be a good addition to the vehicle for autocross, and just an overall good thing to have. However, I didn't expect one side effect: Increased mileage.

No, my tachometer isn't giving me the mileage increase per se, but having it has changed the way I've driven, at least over the last three tanks of gas.

Since installing the tach, I've gone from getting about 32-33 mpg to 36-39 mpg.

So what's going on? I'm more aware of my engine speed. No longer am I going by the sound of the engine and using the speedometer to determine when to shift. Now I'm able to see the true engine speed, and I find myself shifting earlier and driving in a higher gear to conserve fuel. Thus far it's worked pretty well. I was able to achieve 345 miles on my last tank—the most in nearly two years of ownership—and I got 39 mpg doing so.

There's a more fun side to the tach, too. I know exactly where my redline is, which is great for passing on two-lane roads. I know how much juice I still have left if I need to "punch it." No bumping into the rev limiter.

Most cars come with tachometers nowadays, the Yaris is an exception (unless you get the sedan or buy the S model). Adding the tach is almost like rediscovering how to drive the car.

Yaris Beach Patrol

2009-07-07T08:36:00.000-07:00

This is simply a lesson in bad decision making.

I don't know what the hell I was thinking. I've driven on the beach in our AWD Suzuki SX4 many times. I've driven the dunes in 4x4s on multiple occasions. I knew better.

Regardless of past experiences, I still decided to attempt to navigate the beach in my lowered Yaris. However, after driving about 20 feet from the beach entrance, my lowered FWD Yaris on high-performance tires became mired in the sand. Gee ... who would've thought? Now, I've worked in the off-road industry for about three years. I've pulled people out of the sand before with a winch. Yet, I still made the nonsensical decision to attempt to pilot my vehicle onto the sand. Again: A lesson in bad decision making.

Luckily for me, a guy named Tyler just happened to be driving onto the beach in a 4x4 Isuzu Rodeo, and also just happened to have a tow strap. A gentle tug dragged my Yaris back up to the entrance. No blood, no foul. The Yaris was fine. I, however, felt like a dumbass—as I should have. Next time I'll be sure to have the SX4.

Cool Web Site: BeanGarage.com

2009-07-06T09:29:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a place that carries subcompact-specific parts for your Nissan Cube or Versa; Toyota Yaris; Scion xB, xA; Honda Fit; or others, check out Bean Garage. They have a bunch of parts for these vehicles and others.

In addition, they also have the Bean Yourself blog, too. Lots of cool car photos and neat postings, too.

Be sure to check it out!

LINKS
BeanGarage.com
Bean Yourself blog

Big in Japan: Honda Fit is the top seller in Japan for the first half of 2009

2009-07-06T08:34:00.000-07:00

Honda's Fit has taken the top sales prize in Japan for the first half of 2009 by selling 65,589 units. The second-place finisher was the Suzuki Alto.

LINK
Honda Automotive News

Scion iQ convertible?

2009-07-06T08:26:00.001-07:00

As you probably know, the Toyota iQ microcar is headed to the U.S. as a Scion. Now, Motor Trend has found this rendering in a Japanese car magazine. It looks to be an artist's interpretation of what the iQ convertible might look like. There has been talk of other vehicles based on the iQ's platform, so this might not be too far off. I'm sure the ginormous wheels and aggressive body panels would get lost (might get lost?), but it looks pretty cool to me.

LINK
Scion Drop Top (Motor Trend)

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-03T10:46:00.001-07:00

Whether you're traveling or staying around home, Subcompact Culture wishes everyone a safe and happy July 4th!

Ford Fiesta X Games Rally Car

2009-07-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

For this year's X Games rallycross, Ford is entering three new Fiesta rally cars. Drivers will include drifter Tanner Foust, 10-tim X Games medalist Brian Deegan, and Indy 500 champion Kenny Brack.

I think this is a very smart move by Ford, and should provide some fresh, hip exposure for the upcoming Fiesta. FYI, there will be a Fiesta rally car competing in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on July 19, too.

LINKS
Ford attacking X Games with star-studded trio of Fiesta rally cars (Autoblog)
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

Suzuki adds new SX4 model for 2010 with new engine, transmission

2009-07-01T23:41:00.000-07:00

According to Edmunds.com, the 2010 Suzuki SX4 will add a model called the SX4 Sportback. This will be the hatchback version of Suzuki's SX4 that rides a bit lower, has a mild aero package, and will come standard with 17" wheels/tires.

In addition, the 2010 SX4 will receive a new 2.0-liter 150 hp engine with variable valve timing mated to either a CVT or six-speed manual transmission. Other standard goodies include navigation, power windows/locks, a new instrument cluster, and more. No official word if this will be only offered in front-wheel drive, or if there will be an all-wheel drive version of the Sportback.

The vehicle should be available in Fall '09.

LINK
Suzuki Expands Lineup with 2010 SX4 Sportback (Edmunds.com)

"Free gas for the summer" from Suzuki

2009-07-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

Suzuki is trying to generate some sales by offering a "free gas for summer" promotion. Here's how it works: Buy a 2009 Suzuki SX4 before August 31. According to the press release,

"Customers will receive a stored value debit card that can be used for fuel purchases. The amount of each stored value gas card is determined by several factors, including an assumed three-month timeframe for summer driving, the car's EPA estimated highway mpg, the Federal Highway Administration's estimated average of 1,000 miles driven per month and the U.S. national average price of one gallon of regular gasoline as determined by the U.S. Energy Information Administration."

On top of this, if you're looking for an SX4 with the manual transmission, Suzuki will knock $2,000 off the price tag.

LINK
SuzukiAuto.com

June 2009 Subcompact Sales

2009-07-01T15:37:00.001-07:00

So here's how things shook out for the month of June, 2009.

• Hyundai's Accent was the only subcompact to have a positive gain, and it was a decent one at +17.7%.

• The biggest loser was Scion's xD, with a -70% change vs. this same time last year.

• Top sellers this year are the Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Accent, and Nissan Versa, in that order.

• Lowest seller thus far is, again, the Pontiac G3.

Make/Model	JUne '09 vs June '08	Year to date	Cars sold in '09 to date
Hyundai Accent	+17.7	+16.8%	32,928
MINI (all)	-21.2%	-20.9%	20,885
Kia Rio	-26.0%	-44.0%	11,742
Nissan Versa	-38.3%	-30.2%	31,869
Toyota Yaris	-40.6%	-39.9%	38,598
Honda Fit	-46.4%	-24.8%	29,722
Chevrolet Aveo	-52.8%	-61.0%	11,886
Smart (all)	-56.2%	-24.8%	8,567
Suzuki SX4	69.0%	-41.0%	10,672
Scion xD	-70.0%	-64.3%	5,741
Kia Soul	--	--	11,174
Nissan Cube	--	--	3,882
Pontiac G3	--	--	1,275

Mazda planning sub-MX-5 roadster?

2009-07-01T10:28:00.001-07:00

Over at LeftLaneNews.com, they're reporting that Mazda may be working on a convertible smaller than the MX-5 Miata. Click below to read the full story.

LINK
Mazda planning sub-MX-5 roadster?

VIDEO: Homemade Fiat 500 bulldozer unlikely to appear in U.S. as a Chrysler

2009-07-01T10:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the tip, Craig!

SOURCE
Makezine.com

EVENT: 2009 EV Day in Portland, OR

2009-06-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

Anyone that's interested in electric vehicles should check out the 2009 EV Day in Portland. Held at Pioneer Courthouse Square on July 11 (9:30am-4:00pm), there will be a variety of electric vehicles including factory vehicles, conversions, freeway speed and neighborhood electrics, and more. For full details, check the link below.

LINK
EV Day Portland 2009
Oregon Electric Vehicle Association (OEVA)

Four Fiat 500s for 2011

2009-06-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

It's been reported by Automotive News that there will be four different versions of the Fiat 500. Allegedly, the 500 will come in hatchback, convertible, wagon, and "sporty hatchback." And by "sporty hatchback," they mean the Abarth version. I can't hardly wait to see the comparison tests vs. the MINI Cooper S.

LINK

Four versions of Fiat 500 in the U.S. by 2011, including Abarth (Autoblog)
Automotive News (Subscription required)

VIDEO: "Fifth Gear" reviews Toyota's iQ

2009-06-29T07:53:00.000-07:00

The UK's "Fifth Gear" has this video review of the Toyota iQ. For those of us who haven't seen an iQ in person, the video gives some good shots of the interior, gives a good idea of the size, and notes some of the innovations. Plus, it finally shows what the "3 + 1" seating really is.

Aston Martin to sell rebadged ... Toyota iQ?

2009-06-29T07:32:00.001-07:00

From the "huh?" files comes news that UK-based Aston Martin has plans to sell a rebadged version of the Toyota iQ microcar. According to Bloomberg.com, the British car maker will start selling the iQ as the "Cygnet" in 2010. Oh yeah, if you didn't know, Cygnet means "young swan." This vehicle will be billed as a luxury commuter car.

Okay, I know it's not April Fools today. I'm glad to hear that luxury automakers are seriously considering offering subcompacts as part of their lineups. I mean, I guess BMW has MINI, and Daimler has Smart. So why can't Aston Martin get into the action? It just seems odd to me. But hey, I'm cool with it.

LINK
Aston Martin Will Add Toyota-Built Minicar to Luxury Lineup (Bloomberg.com)

Road Trip: Hood River, Oregon

2009-06-29T06:17:00.000-07:00

A bit over an hour to the east of Portland, OR is the town of Hood River. There's a lot to do once you get there, but getting there is a lot of fun, too. If you take Interstate 84 there, like we did, you'll go through The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area rewarding you with fantastic views of the river, rock formations, and just the overall beauty that is "The Gorge." Cool stops along the way can include Multnomah Falls, Bonneville Dam, and numerous parks and trails.

We stopped at Cathedral Ridge Winery on our way into the city. They have beautiful grounds on the outskirts of Hood River, as well as some pretty good vino. There are a number of wineries around Hood River. If you go, make sure to get a wine map of the area so you can visit the various other establishments.

Once in Hood River, there's a ton to do. Hood River is the windsurfing capital of Oregon (if not the world), due to the frequently windy conditions along The Gorge. There's also tons of hiking and mountain biking trails nestled throughout the hills. It's sort of a Mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.

We chose to partake in another thing Hood River is well known for: Beer. There are three breweries in the city: The well-known Full Sail Brewing, Horse Feathers Brew Pub, and Double Mountain Brewery. Not bad for a city with a population of 21,536 people. We stopped at Double Mountain for lunch and the beer sampler (at left). Great beer; the Pilsner, the IRA (India Red Ale) and "Hop Lava" were standouts. We grubbed on the meatball sandwich, too. You can take beer home with you in their 64oz growlers, as well.

After lunch at Double Mountain, we walked down to Full Sail to pick up their new Session Black dark lager. I haven't cracked one open yet, but at $10 for 12 beers, I probably can't go wrong ( regular Session Lager is good stuff at a good price, too).

Another thing Hood River is known for is a lot of cool shops. Whether you're looking for clothing, jewelry, outdoor equipment, or just about anything else, Hood River probably has it on Oak St., which is the main drag. We went into a vintage clothing store called "That's Swank," and found a pretty awesome old Ford Pinto t-shirt. The text read "Join the Ford Stampede ... or get stomped!" Apparently it was an original 1970s shirt, too.

After enjoying Hood River, it was time to mosey back towards Portland. We hopped on I-84 west and decided to take the Historic Colombia River Highway back. We hopped on at exit 35, and took it all the way into Troutdale, OR, or about 33 miles.

This narrow two-lane highway is twisty, curvy, and passes several historic monuments, scenic viewpoints, and numerous waterfalls including the famous Multnomah Falls. We stopped at Latourell Falls, which was gorgeous. The other place we stopped was the Vista House. This was a rest area built on the Historic Highway during the 1920s. It's one of the best views of The Gorge from just about any road.

We had a fantastic time on our day trip to Hood River. Next time I'll remember to bring my real camera so I'm not stuck taking pictures using my camera phone. The picture below is looking out over The Gorge from the Vista House.

The view from the Vista House

GM to build next-generation subcompact in Michigan

2009-06-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

According to Autoblog, General Motors will be building its next-generation b-segment (subcompact) car in Lake Orion, Michigan. So what does that mean? That means that for the first time in decades, GM will be producing a subcompact in the states, and 1,400 workers get to keep their jobs.

The current Chevrolet Aveo is built in South Korea by GM/Daewoo; the Geo/Chevrolet Metro was built it Canada; the old Pontiac LeMans was also built in South Korea. Not since the Chevrolet Chevette has GM manufactured a subcompact on American soil.

LINK
GM to build B-segment in Lake Orion, MI (Autoblog)

Fiat 500 to be only actual Fiat-badged product in the U.S.

2009-06-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

According to the Detroit Free Press, it appears that although some Fiat models will be headed to the U.S. as Chryslers, Dodges, and Jeeps, the subcompact 500 will be the only Fiat to actually carry the Fiat name. It will be a stand-alone model, similar to the way BMW's MINI brand is sold.

The 500 will be built in Toluca, Mexico and be introduced in mid 2011.

LINK
Detroit Free Press

Kia Soul Denim

2009-06-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

Kia had announced the release of a special edition Soul: The Denim. This Soul will be available in a special blue denim color and will wear 18" white wheels, a white racing stripe, and white side mirrors. In addition, the Soul Denim will have a subwoofer, special spoiler, and fender-mounted turn signals. A few other goodies will be available, too. The special-edition Sould Denim will be limited to 1,200 units.

LINKS
Kia.com
KiaSoulForums.com

Subcompact 4x4: The Suzuki Jimny

2009-06-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

Remember a certain Suzuki 4x4 from the '80s-'90s that was all the rage? It was small, cheap, and extremely capable off road? Of course you do—it was the Suzuki Samurai. The Samurai, which is known as the "Jimny" (not to be confused with "Jimmy") in other parts of the world, disappeared from U.S. showrooms in 1995, with the larger Sidekick taking over Suzuki's 4x4 duties in the States.

However, in other parts of the world Suzuki kept producing a subcompact 4x4, and it remains in production today, although much updated from the U.S.-spec Samurai.

The Jimny actually dates back all the way to 1970, when Suzuki offered the little off-roader with a tiny air-cooled, two-cylinder 360cc engine. However, a lot has changed since then. However, the Jimny has remained true to it's core: It's a small, Spartan, off-road capable vehicle that delivers excellent fuel economy.

ENGINE, SUSPENSION, SPECS
The current Jimnys are offered with a choice of 1.3-liter engines (one with variable valve timing, one without) or a 1.5-liter diesel. They feature four-wheel-drive (complete with a 4WD high and 4WD low gearset), a true ladder frame, and solid front and rear axles—the preferred front suspension of off-road enthusiasts. (Currently, only the Jeep Wranger, and heavy-duty pickups such as the Ford Super Duty still offer this robust suspension type in the U.S.).

Fast it ain't. A 0-62 mph jaunt takes between 14.1 and 17.2 seconds depending on engine and transmission choice. However, this little beast is frugal at the pump: Nearly 40mpg on gas; no doubt more with the diesel.

And make no mistake about it: The Jimny is small. Of course, its diminutive size makes it very nimble. Add to these specs its true truck underpinnings and you've got the recipe for a four-wheeled mountain goat. To get an idea of the Jimny's size, here are some spec comparisons between a Jimny and a two-door Jeep Wrangler:

	Suzuki Jimny	Jeep Wrangler (2DR)
Wheelbase	88.56"	95.4"
Length	144.5"	152.8"
Width	63"	73.7"
Curb weight	2,337-2,546 lbs.	3,760-3,785 lbs.

AFTERMARKET
The Jimny is a popular off-road vehicle in Japan and Europe, and there are plenty of companies offering suspension, engine, and drivetrain upgrades to make these little vehicles extremely capable off the pavement. In fact, a look through Japan's 4x4 Magazine, reveals multiple advertisers selling Jimny upgrades. For example, check out www.imageon.jp, which sells some pretty extreme Jimny upgrades, or www.autocross.co.jp, also offering some serious Jimny products.

JIMNY IN THE U.S.?
Since the Samurai was offered up in the U.S., is there a chance the Jimny could come back to the U.S.? It certainly would be an unfilled niche in the U.S., since there are no more small 4WD vehicles here anymore. Perhaps with a bit more power, some crash testing, and time, the U.S. could see a Jimny ... er Samurai again. I know I'd be in line to get one, as would a lot of off-road enthusiasts looking for an alternative to the Jeep Wrangler.

LINKS
Global Suzuki: Jimny
4x4 Magazine (Japan)
www.Imageon.jp
www.AutoCross.co.jp

UK-spec Toyota iQ3: A glimpse at America's iQ?

2009-06-22T12:22:00.001-07:00

Toyota has been selling the iQ for a few months now in the UK and Japan. Today, Toyota announced a new 1.3-liter (vs. 1.0-liter) engine option for the UK-spec iQ.

The iQ3, as it's called, features a dual-VVT-i 98 HP engine that twists out 92 ft./lbs. of torque. Not bad for a vehicle this size. However, this still won't make the iQ a rocket ship; Toyota claims the iQ3 will do 0-62 in 11.3 seconds. Toyota also claims the iQ3 will achieve 58.9 MPG with the six-speed manual transmission and 55.4 MPG if buyers opt for the CVT. Keep in mind that's on the European driving cycle, so U.S. standard will likely be a skosh lower.

So will this more-powerful 1.3-liter iQ be the variant the U.S. receives? I'd bet it will be, as I don't foresee Toyota offering the little 1.0. The iQ will probably be sold as Scion, too, and when the iQ concept was shown at the New York Auto Show, it did in fact have a 1.3 liter with 93 HP.

Anyway, the full iQ3 UK press release can be found at WorldCarFans.com.

LINKS
Toyota iQ (Toyota.co.uk)

J.D. Power 2009 Initial Quality Study: Top Subcompacts

2009-06-22T10:14:00.000-07:00

J.D. Power and Associates just released its 2009 Initial Quality Study. And the top vehicles in the subcompact class are the Toyota Yaris, the Hyundai Accent, and the Honda Fit (in that order).

Most people have become accustom to seeing Toyota and Honda in the top few spots, but in yet another move that solidifies the fact that the Koreans are building better vehicles, the Hyundai Accent came in above the Honda Fit. In fact, in overall quality, Hyundai scored slightly higher than Honda overall, with both brands outscoring Toyota, which placed seventh (down two spots from 2008).

Who else is hot on the heels of Toyota? Ford and Chevrolet with only 1 and 2 more problems per 100 vehicles than Toyota, respectively. This year's industry average was 108 problems per 100 vehicles; 2008's average was 118.

Most improved had to have been Suzuki, which went from the 32nd spot (of 36 brands) in 2008 to 10th of 37 in 2009. You can probably attribute that to the phasing out of the Daewoo-badged vehicles, and the proliferation of the SX4 into the market.

Last place for 2009 was BMW's subcompact MINI brand, which was second to last in 2008. Smart, the other all-subcompact brand, placed third-to-last this year.

Click the image below to see the full-size chart:

LINKS
2009 J.D. Power Initial Quality Ratings (via Autoblog)
2008 J.D. Power Initial Quality Ratings (via Autoblog)
J.D. Power 2009 Initial Quality Reports (www.JDPower.com)

World's Smallest Taxi: A BMW Isetta With a Meter - Interview

2009-06-19T12:17:00.001-07:00

From Car & Driver magazine's blog:

World's Smallest Taxi: A BMW Isetta With a Meter - Interview

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