Used Toyota IQ Buying Guide
The Toyota iQ is a truly clever car. Tiny on the outside but surprisingly spacious inside, it's a masterclass in smart design. Perfect for zipping through tight city streets, this compact car offers impressive fuel economy and Toyota's signature reliability. If you're looking for a small car that punches well above its weight, a used Toyota iQ is an excellent choice. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying one.
Why Buy a Used Toyota iQ?
Choosing a used Toyota iQ is a smart move for anyone who navigates busy urban environments. Its tiny size makes parking in the tightest spots a breeze, and its brilliant turning circle feels like a secret weapon on congested streets. Despite its small footprint, the interior feels remarkably spacious and is packed with clever features. Plus, with Toyota's reputation for reliability, you're getting a car that's built to last, saving you money on both fuel and maintenance.
Toyota iQ Overview
Launched in 2008, the Toyota iQ was designed to challenge the norms of city car design. At just under three metres long, it cleverly accommodates up to three adults and a child, thanks to its innovative asymmetrical dashboard and slim-profile seats. This layout, which Toyota dubbed '3+1' seating, provides more front passenger legroom, allowing an adult to sit comfortably behind them.
The iQ came with a choice of two petrol engines: a 1.0-litre three-cylinder or a more powerful 1.33-litre four-cylinder. Both offered excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions. It was also available with either a manual or a CVT automatic gearbox. Production for the UK market ended in 2014, but its revolutionary design and practicality mean the iQ remains a popular choice on the used car market today.
Trims and Specifications
The Toyota iQ was offered in a few simple trim levels, each building on the last. Here’s what you can generally expect to find:
iQ
The entry-level model is anything but basic. Standard features include 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, and a six-speaker sound system with an aux-in port. Safety was also a priority, with nine airbags, stability control, and traction control included as standard.
iQ2
Moving up to the iQ2 added features like keyless entry and start, automatic headlights and wipers, and climate control. The interior also received some subtle upgrades, giving it a more premium feel. This trim level is a great middle ground, offering a few more creature comforts for a small increase in price.
iQ3
The top-of-the-range iQ3 trim was exclusively available with the 1.33-litre engine. It included all the features of the iQ2 but added stylish part-leather seats and some unique exterior trim details. This is the version to go for if you want the most powerful engine and the most luxurious feel.
What to Look for When Buying
The Toyota iQ is known for its durability, but there are still a few things to check when you’re looking at a used example.
- Service History: A full service history is a great indicator of a well-maintained car. Check that regular oil changes and maintenance have been carried out.
- Bodywork: City cars often pick up scrapes and dings. Check the body panels and alloy wheels carefully for any signs of parking-related damage.
- Clutch (Manual): On manual models, ensure the clutch feels smooth and engages without slipping. A high biting point could signal that a replacement is due.
- CVT Gearbox (Automatic): If you're testing an automatic, make sure the CVT gearbox operates smoothly without any unusual noises or juddering.
- Interior Wear: Look for wear and tear on the seats and dashboard, especially on the driver's side, to get a sense of how the car has been used.
- Test Drive: Take the car for a spin in both city traffic and on faster roads to check its performance, handling, and to listen for any strange noises from the suspension or engine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Toyota iQ a great city car?
The Toyota iQ's incredibly compact size and tight turning circle make it exceptionally easy to drive and park in congested urban areas. Its clever interior design maximizes space, and its excellent fuel economy helps keep running costs down, making it an ideal companion for city life.
How much does a used Toyota iQ cost in the UK?
The price of a used Toyota iQ varies based on its age, mileage, condition, and trim level. Generally, you can expect prices to range from around £3,000 for an older, higher-mileage example to over £7,000 for a newer, low-mileage iQ3 model.
What is the fuel economy of the Toyota iQ?
The Toyota iQ is very fuel-efficient. The 1.0-litre petrol engine can achieve up to 64 mpg, while the 1.33-litre engine offers around 58 mpg. This makes it an economical choice for daily driving.
How does the Toyota iQ compare to other compact cars like the Smart ForTwo?
Compared to the Smart ForTwo, the Toyota iQ offers more practicality with its '3+1' seating configuration, allowing it to carry an extra passenger or two for short trips. While both are excellent city cars, the iQ often provides a slightly more comfortable ride and a more conventional driving experience.
What are the key features of the Toyota iQ?
Key features across the range include alloy wheels, air conditioning, and a comprehensive safety package with nine airbags. Higher trims add luxuries like keyless entry, climate control, and automatic headlights, making the iQ feel very well-equipped for its size.
How much does insurance for a used Toyota iQ cost?
The Toyota iQ falls into a low insurance group (group 3 for the 1.0-litre model), making it very affordable to insure, especially for younger drivers or those in urban areas.
What are the most common issues with used Toyota iQ cars?
