Owner reviews for the Toyota iQ
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4.5/5The Toyota iQ packs an extraordinary amount of functionality and tech into one of the UK’s shortest cars. It's perfect for city drivers who are tight on parking, so are looking for substance and practicality over size.
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No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4.5/5Compact on the outside, smart on the inside – the Toyota iQ packs a lot into a very small package. When it was launched in 2009, the iQ grabbed attention with its distinctive city-car proposition. It's less than three metres long, but still offers room for three adults and a child. This is a clever solution for urban drivers who need to weave through city streets but want comfort and safety, too. The iQ was sold new in the UK from 2009 to 2015. Early models featured a 1.0-litre petrol engine, with a nippier 1.33-litre following soon after. Both engines are frugal, but the iQ’s real trump card is its smart cabin layout and big-car features in a compact package. Around town, it gives rivals like the smart fortwo some stiff competition. Compared to many city cars, the iQ boasts strong safety and a flexible interior.
Despite its size, the Toyota iQ is impressively safe. It comes with nine airbags as standard, including a unique rear curtain airbag to protect back-seat passengers. Euro NCAP awarded it five stars, with adult-occupant safety scoring especially high. The iQ's focus on safety features, including stability control and robust construction, makes it a class leader among ultra-compact cars.
The iQ range launched with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine delivering 67bhp. In 2009, a 1.33-litre petrol engine joined the line-up, offering brisker performance with 98bhp. Both engines come with either a manual gearbox or Multidrive CVT automatic transmission. The latter is less economical but offers a smoother drive.
All iQs are well-equipped for their class. The standard kit includes power windows, a six-speaker stereo and remote central locking. Later or plusher trims add keyless entry, climate control, automatic lights and wipers, and optional satnav and leather trims. Altogether, this sets the iQ apart from many budget city cars.
According to official figures, the 1.0-litre manual sets the efficiency standard at around 65mpg in combined driving, with CO2 as low as 99g/km. The 1.33-litre engine is slightly thirstier but still economical at 59mpg. Real-world figures can be a little lower, especially at motorway speeds, but expect very low running costs overall.
Look for a full service history, check if the car has been involved in any recalls (notably for power steering), and inspect for wear to the interior and alloy wheels. To cover all bases with this tech-packed car, consider The AA Vehicle Inspection before buying.
Toyota is known for reliability, and the iQ is no exception. Engineering is borrowed from the Aygo and Yaris, so both engines are well tested. Gearbox issues are rare. Owners report low running costs and strong mechanical durability, making the iQ a dependable pick for hassle-free city driving.