The current iQ is powered by a 1.0L three-cylinder engine shared by the Aygo, rated at 67hp (50kW) and a healthy 55mpg US (4.27L/100km). The new 1.3L engine will feature VVT-i and 99hp (75kW) plus a fuel-saving stop-start feature. Despite the jump in power, the new engine is expected to return better fuel efficiency, around 59mpg, or 4.0L/100km. Toyota announced the engine late last year.
The new model complements the 1.4L D4-D diesel that is currently the most powerful unit in the iQ range at 90hp (67kW), though the diesel is still likely to be torquier and more suited to city driving. All of the engines in the iQ can be fitted to either a five-speed manual or an optional CVT.
After its Geneva show debut, expect the iQ to hit European showrooms in the middle of the year. There's still no official announcement of the iQ for the U.S., though with consumer budgets shrinking and fuel prices likely to rise again, the potential for the car is high.
