• 2013

• 2012 Scion iQ

• Used Scion iQ
• Repairs Scion iQ

Scorecard

Overall:	2012 Scion iQ U.S. News Best Cars 7.2
Critics' Rating:	7.8
Performance:	6.3
Interior:	6.2
Safety:	7.7
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Pros & Cons

• Impressive standard features list
• Easy to park
• Comfortable front seats

• Boring automatic transmission
• Tight rear seat
• Little cargo space with back seat passengers

Research Other Years

• 2013 Scion iQ

The 2012 Scion iQ isn’t fast, but test drivers say it’s the perfect car for cruising city streets and slipping into tight spaces.

According to reviewers, the Smart Fortwo has finally met its match with the 2012 Scion iQ. The iQ is a bit larger than the Fortwo (and has a back seat), and test drivers say the iQ is better in nearly every aspect. Scion packs a host of standard safety features, including a suite of 11 airbags with knee airbags for the driver and front passenger and a rear window curtain airbag. It also has plenty of standard features and an engine that's more powerful than the Fortwo’s.

While reviewers agree that the iQ surpasses the Fortwo by leaps and bounds, they say it struggles in a few areas. The two rear seats are cramped, and with back-seat passengers, there’s very little cargo space. The feature they dislike most is the standard Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that eliminates the iQ from any fun-to-drive contests.

However, test drivers understand that these are some of the sacrifices shoppers in the market for a subcompact car will have to make. If you’re willing to exchange performance and utility for something that is a cinch to whip around town, reviewers think you’ll be pleased with the 2012 Scion iQ.

Other Cars to Consider

While reviewers prefer the Scion iQ over the Smart Fortwo, you might be drawn to the Fortwo’s base price, which is significantly less than the iQ’s. The Fortwo, however, isn’t as well-equipped as the iQ, and doesn’t come standard with as many airbags or basics like air conditioning, a radio or power windows. The Fortwo also only seats two and has less cargo space. But, if you need a runabout that’s less expensive than the iQ and you don’t drive on the highway much, the Fortwo may be just want you need.

The 2012 Scion iQ is ideal for maneuvering cities, but with tight rear seats and little cargo space, you might prefer a small sedan or hatchback like the Kia Rio. The Kia Rio is great for people with the occasional rear passenger who need plenty of space for trips to the airport and the grocery store. The Kia Rio is less expensive than the iQ, and can be equipped with similar features like Bluetooth and a USB port.

Details: 2012 Scion iQ

The 2012 Scion iQ is an all-new subcompact that’s available in one trim. See the full list of 2012 Scion iQ specs.

• "Here’s what the new Scion iQ has going for it: It’s tiny outside, but not so small inside. Four people can wedge in when necessary. It’s good-looking, the interior design is about the best of any cheap car, and the seats are comfortable. The suspension is simple, but it works well, and the precise steering and its size make the iQ super easy to park." -- Car and Driver 
• "The 2012 Scion iQ really does suit an urban environment, where its size makes it a great fit for everything from parking spaces to errands through city traffic. It's a car that makes everything easy, even if it's not exactly fun." -- Edmunds
• "But where the ForTwo falls woefully short, the iQ steps up in every conceivable metric. It drives better, it looks better and it's better suited to both bouncing around town and taking a day-trip on the freeway." -- Autoblog