2012 Scion iQ priced at $15,995

As journalists including AutoWeek's own Michelle Koueiter flog the new 2012 Scion iQ in California, pricing information has made its way back to the Midwest.

The Scion iQ will cost $15,995, including destination, when it hits dealerships. The car will be released in four phases, starting with the West Coast in October. The South will get the car in January, followed by the East Coast, and finally us here in the middle.

Expect a decently equipped base 2012 Scion iQ, along with plenty of tacky accessories available to those who so desire. The base car comes with Pandora radio service, which is currently rolling out a big push to be in new cars.

For comparison in the small-car market, the hatchback Ford Fiesta is $16,295 while the Nissan Versa HB comes in at $13,520.

By Jake Lingeman