Why did Toyota discontinue the iQ?
Toyota discontinued its iQ microcar in 2014 due to poor sales and a shift in consumer preferences towards larger vehicles. The iQ, a compact four-seater car, was introduced in 2008 as Toyota's answer to the growing demand for small, fuel-efficient urban vehicles. However, it failed to gain significant traction in the market, leading the automaker to ultimately discontinue the model.
Reasons for the iQ's Discontinuation
There were several key factors that contributed to the iQ's demise:
- Lack of Consumer Demand: The iQ's small size and limited cargo space made it less appealing to many consumers, who were increasingly gravitating towards larger, more practical vehicles. The microcar segment, in general, struggled to gain widespread popularity, especially in markets like the United States where consumers tend to prefer larger vehicles.
- Competition from Larger Vehicles: As fuel prices remained relatively low, consumers were less inclined to prioritize fuel efficiency over other features, such as interior space and cargo capacity. This shift in consumer preferences benefited larger vehicles, making it harder for the iQ to compete effectively.
- High Production Costs: The iQ's complex engineering and specialized design made it relatively expensive to produce, which limited Toyota's ability to price it competitively against other small cars in the market.
- Lack of Profitability: With low sales volumes and high production costs, the iQ was not a profitable model for Toyota, leading the company to ultimately decide to discontinue it in favor of more successful and profitable vehicles in its lineup.
In the end, the iQ's niche appeal and the changing market dynamics proved to be too much of a challenge for the microcar to overcome, leading Toyota to discontinue the model in 2014 after just six years on the market.
Is Scion iQ rare?
The iQ promised to better a Smart Fortwo by offering seating for four, a 37 mpg combined rating, a ridiculously tight turning circle, and 11 airbags. However, just 15,701 of them were sold after Smart delivered Scion a sales-floor beating akin to an angry Mike Tyson on a plane.
How long do Scion engines last?
The well-maintained Scion tC can last more than 250,000 miles. There are even reports of their Scion tCs lasting over 500,000 miles. As long as you're aware of the common problems of the particular vehicle you're planning to buy, you'll know what to look out for.
Why was the Toyota iQ discontinued?
Due to relatively small sales, Toyota discontinued the IQ in 2014, with no direct replacement ever following, though the Japanese firm does sell the Aygo in the city car segment.
Why did Toyota shut down Scion?
On February 3, 2016, Toyota announced that the Scion brand would be phased out in August after the 2016 model year, stating that the company no longer required a specific marque to target younger demographics.
When did they stop making the Scion iQ?
The car was introduced in 2012 and discontinued with its Toyota counterpart in 2015. The production Scion iQ debuted at the 2010 New York Auto Show and was marketed for model years 2012 to 2015.
What is the life expectancy of a Scion iQ?
According to theautopian.com, the typical lifespan of the Scion iQ is around 200,000 miles.
Will Scion ever come back?
They've simply been combined into the Toyota name and are created in Japan. Again, Scion vehicles could come back in the future. Even if they do, their primary manufacturing location will still be in Japan, as that is where the core of the company is located.
How many miles per gallon does a 2008 Toyota iQ get?
Select engine for more Real MPG information:
| Engine | Official MPG (NEDC) | Real MPG Avg. |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 VVT-i | 58.9–65.7 mpg | 53.4 mpg |
| Submit | ||
| 1.0 VVT-i automatic | 58.9–65.7 mpg | 45.7 mpg |
| Submit |
How long does a Toyota IQ last?
What is Toyota Iq lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Toyota Iq is148,000 miles, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Factors such as ULEZ compliance and BHP are major when looking into a vehicle's lifespan/life expectancy.
Is Toyota IQ bigger than smart?
Results: Toyota iQ vs Smart ForTwo
Imagine a Smart ForTwo with room for an extra person, strong refinement and a decent manual box... That sums up the iQ. It's pricier and larger than its rival, but has much broader talents.
