Toyota has finally confirmed the launch of its diminutive iQ minicar for the U.S. market with the unveiling today of the 2011 Scion iQ at 2010 New York Auto Show. Aimed at a new trendsetting generation of urban drivers, the types of customers Scion is known for, the new U.S.-spec iQ will be very well-equipped when it goes on sale later this year.

Already on sale in Europe and Japan, the iQ measures less than 10 feet in length, yet it can comfortably seat three adults plus one small child, and officials are confident it will score top marks in independent and government crash testing. Active safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Traction Control (TRAC).

The 2011 Scion iQ will also come standard with 10 SRS airbags, 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.

With a 78.7 inch wheelbase and a unique suspension design--consisting of MacPherson struts up front, and a torsion beam rear suspension--the three-door hatchback can deftly maneuver through city traffic. In addition, its overall length of only 120.1 inches, width of 66.1 inches, and short front and rear overhangs make parking a breeze.

Power will come from a 1.3-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with a reasonable 90 horsepower on tap, and this will be matched with a continuously variable transmission. Thanks to its small stature and variable valve timing technology, expect combined fuel economy levels around the 30 mpg mark.

Standard goodies will include a six-speaker stereo USB and auxiliary ports and steering-wheel-mounted controls.

Final release dates are pricing are yet to be revealed.

[Scion]