why ads?

Popular at KBB.com

The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2014 Scion iQ

Please enter a valid mileage

View all 56 photos

Want to save money? Check out the 2013 Scion iQ

Overview

Get Your Fair Purchase Price See actual transaction prices, explore total cost to own, projected resale value and more. See what you should pay

2014 Scion iQ Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 5.8

The 2014 Scion iQ is among a crop of tiny cars that emphasize high fuel economy, low entry cost and stylish design. Like the Fiat 500 and Chevrolet Spark, the iQ boasts youthful looks and more refinement than the Smart Fortwo. When that latter car arrived in the U.S. in 2008, its toy-like dimensions drew quizzical looks, but now these microcars are gaining wider acceptance. This is especially true in crowded cities, where the iQ excels as a runabout that can squeeze into the tightest parking spots. If your needs focus on highway cruising or ferrying more than one extra passenger, the iQ's size is a detriment, but if you just require an inexpensive and efficient errand runner, the iQ begins to look like an intelligent choice.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you live in a crowded place where you need to fight for a parking space, the iQ is worth its weight in gold. This Scion's fuel efficiency, residual value, and the reliability record of its Toyota parent are also alluring.

You May Not Like This Car If...

There's no getting around the Scion iQ's pint-size dimensions, which limit both passenger capacity and its ability to cruise comfortably at higher speeds. Slightly larger cars such as the Ford Fiesta, Kia Rio, Mazda Mazda2, Chevrolet Sonic and Mini Cooper offer a more solid ride and similar (or better) highway fuel economy.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

5.8
Driving Dynamics

5.8
Comfort & Convenience

6.6
Design: Interior & Exterior

6.4
Value

5.6
Safety

N/A

How It Ranks

#4

out of 5

MPG

#4

out of 5

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

9.1 out of 10

View all
consumer ratings

What's New for 2014

2014 Scion iQ models gain a new display audio system that features a 6.1-inch LCD touch screen, HD Radio and Bluetooth connectivity. In celebration of Scion's 10th anniversary is the limited-edition 10 Series version with features like special wheels, unique interior illumination and commemorative badges.

Driving the iQ

Driving Impressions The Scion iQ is a short car, but drivers sit high and enjoy good visibility when the rear seats are folded. With no adjustment for seat height or a telescoping...

steering wheel, however, finding the perfect fit can be challenging. The iQ's small 4-cylinder engine only puts out 94 horsepower, but that is enough to provide decent acceleration in this light vehicle. Keep the continuously variable automatic transmission in Sport mode, and you'll get zippier performance, but the iQ can't match the larger Mini Cooper or Chevy Sonic for road feel and driving fun. Engine drone is a letdown and only seems to grow louder the longer the commute. The iQ is certainly freeway capable, but it's far more at home at lower speeds on city roads.

Favorite Features

TIGHT TURNING RADIUS
Making a U-turn in some vehicles can feel like a gamble, but with the iQ's 26.4-foot turning circle you'll never have to worry about that dreaded 3-point turn amid oncoming traffic. In less dramatic situations, this also translates to tight maneuverability in parking lots.

STAGGERED SEATING
By pushing the dashboard and console forward, the 2014 Scion iQ puts the front passenger slightly ahead of the driver, which cleverly adds extra room for a passenger in back. There's no such luck for those behind the driver, though.

2014 Scion iQ Details

2014 Scion iQ Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Though the Scion iQ technically accommodates four people, it's best thought of as transportation for two, or three in a pinch thanks to the front passenger seat that is staggered to expand rear legroom. The front seats are ample-sized and quite comfortable, but the interior as a whole feels spartan and inexpensive. A hidden, slide-out storage compartment under the front passenger seat helps make the most of the iQ's storage space. With the rear seats up, cargo capacity is nearly nonexistent. If this were our daily driver, we'd just leave the rear seats folded to create a larger hull that accommodates several grocery bags.

Exterior

The 2014 Scion iQ brings a modern twist to the microcar segment that sets it apart from the retro-classic designs of the Fiat 500 and Mini Cooper. In contrast, the iQ's shape appears more angular and funky. Its front is defined by the nub of a hood that hides the engine, while the rear hatch just barely extends over the rear wheels. Two large side doors allow easy front-seat access, and the front windows are roughly three-quarters the length of the entire car. An available rear spoiler mounted atop the hatchback adds a dose of sportiness.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Every Scion iQ comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), 16-inch steel wheels, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, power accessories, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. Music and communications are controlled via a new 6.1-inch touch-screen Display Audio system with Bluetooth wireless connectivity and HD Radio. Note, cruise control is not available. Buyers concerned with the iQ's small size will be relieved to know it's big on safety. In that respect, the iQ includes 11 airbags, stability and traction control, and emergency-braking aids. Like other new Scions, the 2014 iQ includes free scheduled maintenance for two years/25,000 miles, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years.

Optional Equipment

Aside from the limited Series 10 edition, there's really only one trim of the 2014 Scion iQ, and options are on the meager side. Those that are available include a rear spoiler, fog lights, alloy wheels and TRD (Toyota Racing Development) upgrades such as lowering springs and a sway-bar set. Navigation can be had via an upgrade to the 6.1-inch display audio system. Series 10 edition models add interior electroluminescent panels, solar-powered illuminated shift knob, graphite alloy wheels, and commemorative badging.

Under the Hood

Scion iQ hatchbacks are powered by a small, 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine that puts out just under 100 horsepower. That power isn't extravagant, but it's adequate to shuffle this 2,127-pound car up to speed in most situations. All iQs are front-wheel drive and use a CVT automatic transmission that help these microcars attain a combined 37 mpg while running on regular unleaded gasoline.

1.3-liter inline-4
94 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
89 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 36/37 mpg

Pricing Notes

The 2014 Scion iQ has an appealing Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting at $16,420, and its long-term financial outlook is even better. In fact, the 2013 iQ nabbed the top spot in our 5-Year Cost to Own Awards as the most affordable car you can own over that period of time when factoring in considerations such as fuel, repairs and insurance. Comparatively, the Fiat 500's starting price is slightly higher than the iQ's, while the Chevrolet Spark and Smart Fortwo are a few thousand dollars lower at around $13,000. Slightly larger cars like the Mazda2, Ford Fiesta and Chevrolet Sonic, meanwhile, also have lower starting prices than the Scion iQ. Before buying, be sure to check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to see what others in your area are paying. Long-term value is a bright spot for the iQ, with it having an above-average residual value when it comes time to sell.

To find out what consumers are really paying for this vehicle, first select a style to see the Fair Purchase Price| Calculate payments for this vehicle

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Scion iQ vehicles for sale near you.

Get Your Fair Purchase Price See actual transaction prices, explore total cost to own, projected resale value and more.

See what you should pay

2014 Scion iQ Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.1

Out of 10

Based on 13 Ratings for the 2012 - 2014 models.

Review this car

Value

9.0/10

Quality

9.2/10
Reliability

9.8/10

Performance

9.4/10
Comfort

8.9/10

Styling

9.0/10

Aweful Gas miliage

By Lunerbator (ME) on Wednesday, July 17, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 7,000

10 2.0

overall rating 2 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 2/10
Value: 3/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 4/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "compact fun to drive"

Cons: "poor gas, poor horsepower, poor customer service"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"When i bought the car it was great! topping almost 50 mpg. That did not last long. i am currently getting 24 mpg and have been for about 8 months ( i have owned that car for 10). the dealership is no help and scion tells me to deal with the dealership. honestly i don't take it out much because my 2004 jeep liberty with 170k miles on it gets better highway then this tiny car. i just wish i wasn't stuck with it for another 2 years."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

What the heck is that?

By white iq (MA) on Friday, July 05, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 2,500

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 4/10

Pros: "Cute, great on gas, fun to drive"

Cons: "no glove compartment, no arm rest, no spare tire!"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 7

"Once you get past EVERYBODY staring at you the IQ is really fun to drive. I get 41 miles to a gallon and that's combination highway/country roads and mountains. It rides very nice however if you catch a crack in the road it will throw you. I have to keep both hands on the wheel at all times. I probably should anyway but I'm trying to give you a visual. Not having a glove compartment totally stinks, you don't realize how much you need one until its gone. My husband is 5'11 so on the taller side and even with his seat pushed all the way back he's very uncomforable. There is no trunk.. at all which makes a grocery trip a puzzle. Overall the car is really fun to drive if your a small/short person and maybe have another small short person riding in the front seat with you. Forget trying to go flea marketing or shopping...there's no room. I have this as my only form of transportation and its very inconvient. If this is a play car then by all means its awesome and fun to drive...not to mention its wicked cute:)"

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

Very Impressed

By Julie (OR) on Friday, April 05, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 10,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Driver and passenger leg and body space."

Cons: "Doesn't come in a manual transmission"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I was skeptical of how the IQ would handle on snow and ice due to the short wheel base. I live in an area where there is plenty of 'winter driving' hazards but my IQ breezed through the icy, snowy, cold roads just like it was a larger sedan. I average 38 mgp during the winter months(and that is with warming it up before driving) and am at 43+ average with the warmer weather. It is amazing how much I can put in the back hatch too!! I highly recommend this little car if you are looking for an economical way to get around and don't need to always carry a 3rd passenger...Although my 17 and 16 yr old kids do fit in the back seat for short distances, it wouldn't be the greatest comfort for long drives (50+ miles). I never hesitate taking my IQ somewhere."

5 people out of 5 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

Fun to drive, responsive transmission, best u-turn

By Evgeny (NV) on Wednesday, December 26, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 6,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Bluetooth, Still 4 Seater"

Cons: "No Central Armrest even optional"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I live in Las Vegas.I also own VW Jetta 2011.I bought Scion IQ month ago with 5000 miles on it orange color.Very easy car to drive at the trafic,mine does 35 mpg,my style of driving is pretty fast,i get compliments all the time.The feel of the car is really tight.Sporty steering wheel is awesome.I Paid $16000 out of the door price, i was trying to find mini cooper for the same money,and only u can find is a dead animal from Mini with 50000 miles.Nice Mini cost like 20000.People complain that Scion IQ has Engine noise at the startup when you r standing outside.I test drove a lot of Minis so guys try to turn on the engine and stand outside the Mini, it sounds like trash can is turning over, not only at startup.And thats normal because u cant hear that disaster from inside, but anyways Mini is really nice,it depends if you have money to fix it, go for it. Scion = Toyota no questions about reliability, so i dont think about my future visits to the mechanics and for me its important becuse its a second car and i dont want pain from it. Also I am tired from questions about safety, i say go on the youtube and check it out. The funny thing ,most of them from Mini owners.:)))"

9 people out of 9 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

fat man lil car

By fathuey (OH) on Friday, November 23, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 9,456

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "can turn around anywere"

Cons: "should be faster than 105mph"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"cool looking fun to drive anywere i had my car about 5 months . great on gas handles pretty good . i also did some upgrades like the cold air filter adds 3/5 more mpg and the 2 12inch infinity subwoofers give it a great stereo sound to cover the road noise. did i also mention im 6ft 400lbs and i fit just fine and comfy . got about 10,000 miles already waiting for snow to fall and see how much fun im gunna have"

8 people out of 10 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

Surprised By The Pep!!

By Lots Of Pep (TX) on Friday, October 05, 2012

I want this car

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Peppy! Very Sporty!! Super Affordable!!"

Cons: "Wish There Was More Room For Passengers"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Oh my goodness!! I test drove one of these cuties last week and I am in the process of buying one! It handles well and it has lots of pep. I have a larger Toyota (SUV) and my larger vehicle takes longer to get up and go than this little vehicle. The gas mileage is a huge deciding factor for me. Going from what I am currently getting (14 MPG) to close to 40 MPG is going to be a huge savings. I have no doubts regarding the quality of anything made from Toyota. I have owned Toyota my entire life and would not own anything else. The longevity and dependability of Scion and Toyota is a comfort. The safety airbags are great too! More airbags in this car than in my SUV. The warranty is great too! Can't wait for my little car to come in so that I can drive it home! Small is "in" and big is out!!!"

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

See all 13 reviews