Toyota will soon join the smart-car ranks in a segment that will soon include Volkswagen's up! and additional micro-cars coming from other brands.
Toyota is moving ahead with a car called the iQ that will be more accommodating than the smart fortwo.
The little Japanese runabout will actually be "for four," three up front and one very small person in the rear, which will give it a serious advantage over the tiny European despite being almost as small on the outside.
The iQ will be released in Europe early next year, and should be popular due to its fuel efficiency and stylish duds. It looks good, wearing Toyota’s “Vibrant Clarity” design language more fittingly than it does with some of the brand’s larger cars.
The iQ will also make all of the latest audio and connectivity technologies available, targeting the young and young at heart who are expected to flock to Toyota showrooms, fall in love and take one home.
But will Toyota bring it to North America? While no announcement has been made, it only makes sense that they will import the car to compete with the strong-selling smart fortwo.
With Toyota's large dealer network and strong brand loyalty, as well as awareness, the iQ could attract more buyers who want a fun little car but are hesitant to spend money on the smart brand managed by Mercedes-Benz.
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