New York, New Scions: 2011 iQ

Scion had two introductions at the New York International Auto Show - the updated tC and the all-new iQ minicar. There was rumors about the iQ coming to the United States as a Scion to help reinvigorate the brand's youthful images.

In other markets, it is known as a Toyota - or, an Aston Martin. We've been hearing a whole lot about the iQ lately, but in its Aston Martin form. And no that isn't an April fools joke - we promise. Although a few years ago it definitely would have qualified as one. Lets take a look at the iQ.

In transitioning to our market, the iQ doesn't get a whole lot of changes - and that isn't a bad thing. The minicar is only 120.1-inches long (just over 10 feet), with a width of 66.1-inches.

Perhaps the craziest thing about the car is what Scion calls the "3+1" seating arrangement. The front seats are slightly offset to allow for "one adult behind the front passenger and a child, small package, or pet behind the driver." Wow, we have to see that in person!

The iQ is equipped with a litany of airbags - 10 SRS airbags in all, including the world's first rear-window curtain airbag. Other airbags include driver- and front-passenger airbags; driver- and front-passenger seat-mounted side airbags; side curtain airbags; driver- and front-passenger knee airbags; and a Scion-first driver seat-cushion airbag.

The engine is a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder that makes over 90 horsepower and is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The iQ is slated to go on sale in early 2011, so we've got a little while to go before we see it on our streets.