Who is interested in making their carbon footprint smaller? And we mean a lot smaller. Enter the new 2012 Scion iQ. Starting at around $16k, this Scion is officially known as a micro-subcompact. It's targeted at buyers who need little more than two seats and a small corner of cargo room. While this kind of vehicle might be new to North America, a very similar model has been driving around the streets of Europe and Japan with a Toyota nameplate.

The new Scion iQ is around 10 feet long, pumping out 94hp and 89 lb-ft of torque. This mini-vehicle, however, isn't made for highway driving. Its specialty is city driving, where fuel economy can get up to 37mpg. The front seats are surprisingly roomy, and Scion is marketing the vehicle as a 3 +1 seating model. Upon a closer look, we would suggest all adults stick to the front seats, and leave the rear seats for cargo in the 16.7 cubic feet of space. Despite its small dimensions, the new Scion includes:

• 11 airbags (including what Scion calls the world's first rear window air bag)
• Anti-lock brakes
• A tire pressure monitoring system
• Traction control
  

Along with those noted above, other standard features include power windows, air conditioning, Bluetooth, HD radio, and a CD player with USB input.

For more information on the Scion iQ's U.S. debut, stay tuned with Vanderstyne Scion. Interested in another new Scion? Stop by and see us at 4374 Ridge Road West, Rochester, NY.  We'll be happy to schedule a test drive, answer any questions you may have, or talk about future plans for the Scion brand. Don't Hesitate to give us a call at 1-800-950-4827 if you have any burning questions right now.