Scion iQ Base vs. 10 Series Trims

Last updated August 4, 2026

Scion iQ

The Scion iQ lineup is simple. The base iQ is the regular-production model: a tiny, well-equipped city hatchback built for easy parking and short urban trips. The 10 Series is the anniversary special edition. It keeps the same basic city-car hardware but adds graphite-finish wheels and several light-up details for a more distinctive look.

What each trim is known for

Scion iQ Base Model

Base Model

base

The Base Model trim level, sold simply as the base iQ, is the complete everyday version of this tiny city hatchback, with easy maneuverability, flexible rear seating, and useful standard equipment.

Best for: City drivers who value easy parking, simple operation, and a small footprint.

Highlights

  • 6.1-inch touchscreen audio with Bluetooth, HD Radio, USB, and auxiliary input
  • 50/50 split fold-flat rear seats
  • 11 airbags, including a rear-window airbag
  • Remote keyless entry and power windows and locks
2 in stock
Scion iQ Special Editions

Special Editions

10 Series

The Special Editions trim level consists of the 10 Series, an anniversary iQ that adds visual personality without changing the car’s basic urban mission.

Best for: Drivers who like the iQ’s city-friendly size but want a rarer, more attention-grabbing version.

Highlights

  • 16-inch graphite gray alloy wheels
  • Two illuminated center-console panels
  • Illuminated front and rear Scion badges
  • Solar-powered illuminated shift knob

Adds anniversary-edition wheels and several illuminated interior and exterior details while retaining the base iQ’s 1.3-liter engine, CVT, and city-focused character.

0 in stock

Trim comparison

FeatureBase ModelSpecial Editions
Includes
base2 in stock
10 Series0 in stock
Lineup roleRegular-production iQ10 Series anniversary edition
Wheel treatmentStandard iQ treatment16-inch graphite gray alloy wheels
Illuminated console panels—Two panels
Illuminated exterior badges—Front and rear
Illuminated shift knob—Solar-powered

Frequently asked questions

How many Scion iQ trims are there?

Most Scion iQs belong to one simply equipped base trim. The main exception is the limited-production 10 Series from 2014, an anniversary edition that adds visual details rather than different mechanical hardware.

What is the Scion iQ base trim?

The base trim is the regular Scion iQ and makes up nearly the whole 2012–2015 lineup. It pairs the 1.3-liter engine and automatic transmission with keyless entry, power accessories, folding rear seats, and 11 airbags.

What is the Scion iQ 10 Series?

The 10 Series is a limited-production 2014 anniversary edition. It keeps the base iQ’s engine and city-car layout but adds graphite-finish alloy wheels, illuminated badges, lighted console panels, and a solar-powered illuminated shift knob.

What is the difference between the base iQ and the 10 Series?

The difference is mainly appearance. The 10 Series adds 16-inch graphite gray alloy wheels and several illuminated exterior and cabin details. Its 1.3-liter engine, automatic transmission, touchscreen, and basic city-car mission match the regular iQ.

Does the iQ 10 Series have more power than the base trim?

No. The 10 Series uses the same 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission as the base iQ. It is an appearance-focused special edition, not a performance upgrade.

Is there a sport or performance trim of the Scion iQ?

No. The U.S. iQ lineup did not include a sport or higher-performance trim. Even the 10 Series special edition kept the standard 1.3-liter engine and focused on distinctive wheels and lighting.

Which Scion iQ trim should I look for as a simple city car?

The base iQ is the straightforward fit. It delivers the model’s tiny footprint, tight turning ability, automatic transmission, folding rear seats, keyless entry, and extensive airbag coverage without special-edition styling.

Which Scion iQ trim suits someone who wants a more distinctive look?

The 10 Series is the one to look for. Its graphite gray wheels, illuminated Scion badges, lighted console panels, and glowing shift knob make it more visually distinctive while preserving the regular iQ’s mechanical setup.

Is the Scion iQ 10 Series worth seeking out for different driving hardware?

No, not for different driving hardware. The 10 Series has the same engine, automatic transmission, and city-focused layout as the base iQ. Its appeal is its limited-production anniversary styling and built-in lighting details.

Do all Scion iQ trims have a touchscreen?

Not across every model year. A 6.1-inch touchscreen became standard for the regular iQ in 2014 and continued afterward. The 2014 10 Series also has it, while earlier base cars use the older audio setup.

Which Scion iQ trim has illuminated badges and cabin panels?

The 2014 10 Series has the special lighting package. It includes illuminated front and rear Scion badges, two lighted center-console panels, and a solar-powered illuminated shift knob.

Does the 10 Series improve on the base iQ’s safety equipment?

No major safety upgrade defines the 10 Series. Both versions retain the iQ’s 11-airbag layout, including a rear-window airbag. The 10 Series is set apart by its wheels and lighting details instead.

Which Scion iQ trim has graphite gray alloy wheels?

The 2014 10 Series has 16-inch graphite gray alloy wheels. They are one of the easiest ways to distinguish the anniversary edition from the regular base iQ.

Do the base iQ and 10 Series have folding rear seats?

Yes. The iQ’s city-car package includes 50/50 split rear seats that fold flat, and the 10 Series keeps the same basic cabin layout and hardware. Folding them creates more room for cargo.