Two News Cars in the City of Light

Paris, of course, is known as the City of Light, but this week it might better be known as the City of Headlights. That’s because this week, the action will be at the Mondial de l’Automobile, as the Paris auto show is known.

We’re introducing a couple of vehicles there today that we thought might interest you. One of them is the production version of our tiny iQ, first seen in prototype form last year. It’s our take on the concept of a city car. The other is the Lexus IS convertible.

Thanks to clever packaging, the iQ is one of those rolling contradictions that seems larger on the inside than it is on the outside. With an estimated base curb weight of 1,950 pounds, it is 9.8 feet long – shorter, even, than our Yaris – and is 5.5 feet wide and 4.8 feet tall. The iQ’s turning circle is about 13 feet, much less than that of the Yaris.

It contains seating for three adults, with a fourth seat that is suitable for a child, or that can be stowed to provide luggage space.

Power is supplied by a high-tech three-cylinder 1.0L engine that is, according to tests by Britain’s respected "Car" magazine, capable of more than 60 mpg. Larger 1.3L gas and 1.4L diesel engines also are slated as options for the iQ.

All the usual items – air conditioning, quality audio systems, a full suite of air bags, including the world’s first rear air bag, and other safety systems – will be available.

Our other new car takes us from the clever to the sublime. This new Lexus IS 250C and IS 350C convertible features a three-panel hard top that quickly folds into invisibility to treat driver and passengers to the joys of top-down motoring in traditional Lexus comfort, quiet and style.

Powertrains for the two IS convertibles are the same as for the IS sedans, and the convertibles share double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension systems with the IS sedans. Revisions to the convertible body structure and suspension enhance torsional stiffness and ride comfort.

The convertibles’ exterior features a design that maximizes aerodynamic efficiency, but never mind that. This car is gorgeous, with lines that look great from any angle.

The convertible’s interior features the luxury touch points associated with the IS sedans, while comfort and entertainment features provide a consistent atmosphere regardless of top configuration. Active safety features from the IS sedans transfer to the convertible as well.

The IS 250C and IS 350C will go on sale in the U.S. in late spring or early summer next year.

The iQ, meanwhile, goes on sale in Britain and Europe early next year.

So here’s our question for you: We all might greatly desire a Lexus convertible, but is there a place for cars like the iQ here in the U.S.? If the iQ became available here, would you consider buying one?

Originally published on the Toyota Open Road blog on Oct. 2, 2008.