We road test the all-new Toyota Aygo X – a city car transformed into a funky urban crossover…
Toyota is on a roll. Recent acclaimed additions to the range include the GR86 coupe, the Yaris, Yaris Cross, GR Yaris, and the bZ4X – the brand’s first EV.
The all-new Toyota Aygo X continues the winning streak. In one fell swoop Toyota’s designers have re-invented the city car, creating an urban runabout sporting chunky, compact crossover looks.
Arguably its only rival is the quirky Suzuki Ignis, which needs a workout in comparison to the rufty-tufty Aygo X (pronounced “Aygo Cross”).
At first glance it looks like Toyota started with a clean sheet, but look closely and you’ll spot design cues from the outgoing Aygo such as the glass hatch and pop-out rear windows.
At only 3.7 metres long and 1.74m wide, it’s a little larger than the old Aygo hatchback, and despite its crossover design, it rides just 11mm higher.
Starting at a very competitive £15,405, the Aygo X range has been kept simple. There’s just one (non-hybrid) petrol engine available (a 71bhp three-cylinder unit), with the option of either a five-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission.
And there are only three trims levels (Pure, Edge and Exclusive), plus a special Limited Edition model.
Entry-level X Pure comes as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, air con, a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, plus a leather steering wheel trim.
Edge grade adds 18-inch alloys, automatic air con and wipers, rear privacy glass, front fog lights and an 8.0-inch multimedia display. It also gains extra exterior styling details and a bi-tone/metallic paint finish. Options include a large, power-operated canvas roof and a parking pack with front and rear intelligent clearance sonars and an automatic braking function.
The range-topping Exclusive model comes with cloth and synthetic leather upholstery, a wireless phone charger, LED headlights and smart entry.
It also gets the new Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system with 9.0-inch display, giving access to cloud-based navigation, latest road information, connected services and over-the-air updates for updates and fixes.
We tested the Limited Edition version, which is finished in cool new Cardamom Green metallic paint. It features 18-inch matt black alloys, Mandarina orange highlights on the wheels, sills and bumpers, plus other interior design features and the canvas roof. The front seats are heated and have part-leather upholstery.
So, the Aygo X is well equipped. It’s also safe because the impressive Toyota Safety Sense package is fitted as standard. It includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, emergency steering assist, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control and a reversing camera. Higher-spec cars also get front and rear parking sensors.
Despite its pumped up looks and longer wheelbase, it’s still very much a city car inside, even if the seating position has been raised by 5cm.
The interior is cheap and cheerful, but then what would you expect for the price? So, you’ll find hard plastics and exposed painted metal. On the plus side, the infotainment system works well and there are still some physical buttons and dials (for the air con – crucially).
There’s plenty of room up front and the driving position is comfortable. However, it’s still cosy in the back and the passenger experience isn’t helped by the small, rear-hinged windows which don’t fully open.
Thankfully, the boot is more practical than before, offering 60 litres extra (231 litres in all), expanding to 829 litres with the rear seats folded.
The thrummy three-pot has been tuned for economy over performance, so more spirited drivers will have to work the five-speed gearbox hard to make swift progress.
Officially, the manual version hits 62mph from standstill in 14.9 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 98mph.
CO2 emissions are as low as 109g/km and fuel economy is up to 58.85mpg. In fact, in mixed driving I managed 60mpg, which added to the low insurance group and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, means owning an Aygo X should be an affordable experience.
Despite being low on power, it handles surprisingly well and only feel unsettled if really pushed.
In its more natural urban habitat, it’s nippy, agile and easy to drive. Light and quick steering, plus an exceptionally small turning circle of just 4.7m really help.
However, it’s not the quietest cabin – a combination of the thrum from the engine and wind noise, while the full-length canvas roof doesn’t help – even if it is fun in the sun.
So, the Aygo X isn’t perfect, but full marks to Toyota for creating a new niche and a dinky car full of character that stands out from the crowd, puts a smile on your face and represents great value for money.
It’s also worth remembering that the Aygo X comes with a standard three-year/60,000-mile warranty, but it’s also eligible for Toyota’s warranty protection for up to 10 years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first), but you do have to service your car at a franchised dealer each year to maintain that cover.
Verdict: The all-new Toyota Aygo X is a breath of fresh air. An affordable city car with cool urban crossover looks that’s fun to drive, safe, economical. cheap to run and well equipped.
Toyota UK
