Motoring News

Toyota has released a guide looking into the benefits its iQ model gets from using a centre take-off steering gear.

The Japanese manufacturer has been able to achieve exceptional room inside the iQ by saving space underneath the bonnet. Key to its design is a centre take-off steering gear for the electric power steering – a first for a Toyota vehicle.

According to Toyota: "On conventional rack and pinion steering systems, like those used in the Toyota Aygo and Yaris, the tie rods are connected to each end of the steering rack, while on a centre take-off system they are connected to the centre."

The iQ is all about ultra-compact design. It is less than three metres long yet manages to accommodate four seats on board.

Customers are able to order the Toyota iQ now, with prices starting at £9,495. The first customer deliveries in the UK are expected in January next year.

Written by Osbourne Ruddock

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