It has been a hit in Asia and Europe, but North Americans will have to wait a bit longer to get their hands on the Scion iQ.

Originally the plan was to start selling the cutesy iQ minicar by March, but Scion's parent company Toyota has now pushed this launch a few months back, so don't expect to see any at your local dealer until the summer.

The reason for the delay is not a production overload or glitch. No, the delay has been placed because they want to sell more of their tC coupes (they claim), which is also new for 2011. Obviously Toyota/Scion top brass think the iQ will steal sales from its sportier sibling. So to give the tC a fighting chance, Scion is giving it a few months lead to win over more customers.

The iQ has been on sale in Asia and Europe since 2008 and has successfully taken many sales away from the smart fortwo, mainly due to having a much smoother gearbox (CVT automatic or 5-speed manual) and being more practical (it can carry three adults plus a child). It also features the industry-first, rear-glass airbag to protect the heads of back seat passengers.

More: Scion iQ Minicar Launch Delayed, Brand Focusing On Selling tC on AutoGuide.com