The Toyota Aygo X has been one of the funkiest small cars available since it was launched back in 2022, and you can stand out from the crowd even more with the latest version of the fun-loving hatchback.
The new version of the Aygo X ditches the 1.0 petrol engine that had previously been under the bonnet for the same 1.5 litre hybrid that is found in the Yaris.
That makes the Aygo X a unique proposition when it comes to city cars because it’s the only full hybrid in its class.
DESIGN:
There’s no major changes when it comes to the design of the Aygo X, which is visually very similar to the traditional petrol model that it replaces.
The noticeable difference is the front end where the Aygo X Hybrid sports a new look, which is partly down to the fact that the car has been made slightly longer – with the front overhang extended by 76mm – in order to house the larger engine.
Credit to the design team at Toyota for the fact that they’ve been able to keep the car in proportion whilst also incorporating the hybrid technology, with two stacks of battery cells positioned alongside each other across the width of the floor, the cooling system beneath the rear seats and the auxiliary battery under the boot floor.
That means there is no loss of space in the cabin or the boot, although that’s still on the small side – as you’d expect for a car in this segment.
PERFORMANCE:
First things first, the Aygo X Hybrid isn’t a car you choose because of a headline figure for top speed or how quickly it can get to 62mph. For the record, it’s 107mph and 9.2 seconds.
Saying that however, although you have the extra weight that comes from the addition of the batteries and the larger engine, the fact you have a big boost in power means that those figures are a noticeable improvement compared to the model is replaces, which is a worth bearing in mind.
It’s not something that will make a huge difference when you are nipping through the city streets, but it will have an impact if you head further afield and venture onto a dual carriageway or motorway when you need to put your foot down and get up to speed.
Where the Aygo X Hybrid really excels however is when it comes to economy. To put it bluntly, in that respect, it’s in a class of its own.
Thanks to Toyota’s full hybrid technology, you can expect to see fuel economy figures well in excess of 70mpg which surpasses any other city car with a traditional ICE engine. Because you won’t need to fill up with fuel as often, and because all-electric driving can be possible in traffic, the Aygo X Hybrid is also a realistic option for those who might have been considering a move to an EV but aren’t totally sure if it is the right move to make.
Class leading emission figures of just 85g/km also mean there is no need for concern when it comes to the low emission zones that are becoming increasingly commonplace.
HANDLING:
In the same way you don’t buy an Aygo X for speed, you probably wouldn’t look to buy one because of how it handles. However, how the updated Aygo X handles is another pleasant surprise.
Built on the same platform as the Yaris, but with various revisions, the Aygo X benefits from the fact that the batteries for the hybrid system are positioned to give a low centre of gravity. Add in a range of new suspension components and you have a car that delivers agile handling from the moment you get behind the wheel.
Given the compact size, you’ll have no issues when it comes to manoeuvring around town thanks to a compact turning circle, whilst you also benefit from strong levels of visibility throughout.
If you want a slightly more engaging driving experience, then the Aygo X GR Sport will tick plenty of boxes, with a more striking visual appearance inspired by Toyota’s racing activities.
SAFETY:
The Aygo X was given a 4* rating by Euro NCAP when tested in 2022 and the new model benefits from Toyota’s ongoing drive for safety, with Toyota Safety Sense technology coming as standard across the range.
That means you’ll have things like pre-collision systems, brake assist and adaptive cruise control that not only maintains your speed, but also keeps a safe distance to the car in front.
Full details on the model range coming to the UK, and pricing, will be confirmed in due cours.
- New Cars
- Toyota