ROAD TEST by Nick Fletcher 

Nick Fletcher 

Toyota Aygo X-Trend 

Toyota’s Aygo is one of the few stand-out models in the city car class thanks to more charismatic styling and underpinned by the brand’s solid reputation for durability. 

The latest Aygo comes in three and five door form and several trim levels but only one engine – a busy little one-litre petrol unit pushing out a respectable 71 hp which is enough to get the car around urban areas with agility and cruise quite comfortably on motorways. Top speed is 160 kph (99 mph), the 0-100 kph time 13.8 seconds and average fuel economy 19.4 kpl (55 mpg), with low emissions of 93 g/km.

Toyotas X-design architecture gives the Aygo a sporty and rather funky look and such styling is an important sales factor in a city-car sector where a distinctive image is hard to find. In the cabin, the layout is clear and simple with a  central touch-screen and steering-wheel-mounted controls taking care of the the essentials. 

The seating is more supportive than in most rivals – which include the Citroen C1, Hyundai i10 and VW Up! – and most will find an ideal driving position thanks to a multi-adjustable steering column. Visibility in the Aygo is very good  and the cabin can take four adults without anyone being too cramped. Boot space is 168 litres, adequate for most people though not the largest in the class. 

Aygo prices start at €11,025 (£9,825) though the upper range X-trim versions are more popular as they are better equipped – my 5-door X-Trend test model had a price tag of €14,828 (£13,215). For that you get a raft of features which include alloy wheels, integrated rear spoiler, projector headlights, rear  privacy glass, touch-screen multimedia centre with digital radio, Bluetooth and smartphone mirroring. 

Safety kit incudes pre-collision system, front, side and curtain airbags, lane departure alert, hill-start assist and a speed limiter. 

Most city cars are not too quick off the mark and the Aygo is no exception, yet it does feel nimble and has responsive steering and a supple ride quality, so it is a pleasant little car to drive and 

it’s stand-out styling helps gives it extra appeal in it’s sector. 

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets. 

Facts At A Glance 

Model: Toyota Aygo X-Trend 

Engine: 1.0 litre petrol 

Transmission: 5-speed manual 

Performance: 0-100 kph 13.8 seconds, top speed 160 kph (99 mph) 

Economy: 19.4 kpl (55 mpg) 

Emissions: 93 g/km 

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Nick Fletcher

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