Toyota has overhauled its Aygo X city car, making a significant leap forward by integrating a hybrid powertrain into one of the smallest cars on the market. This update, focused primarily on the engine and related systems, required nearly two years of engineering to fit the technology without compromising interior space or handling.
Powertrain and Design Changes
The updated Aygo X has grown by 76mm in length, accommodating the new 1.5-liter engine. The exterior receives subtle styling tweaks, aligning it with newer Toyota designs, including a more aggressive front end and a fresh color palette inspired by spices (such as the Cinnamon Spice test model). A new GR Sport version is also available in an exclusive Mustard shade.
The most challenging aspect of the redesign was fitting the hybrid system. Toyota’s engineers cleverly stacked the battery modules under the rear seats, with the cooling system positioned below them and the auxiliary battery under the boot floor. The result is a more efficient and powerful vehicle without sacrificing passenger or cargo space.
Performance and Handling Improvements
The hybrid system increases the Aygo X’s power output from 71bhp to 114bhp, with torque up from 69lb ft to 104lb ft. Acceleration has improved dramatically, dropping from 14.9 seconds to 9.2 seconds for the 0-62mph sprint. This makes the car far more usable on highways and in traffic, addressing a previous weakness.
The added 140kg of weight (totaling 1090kg) has been offset by a 40mm lower center of gravity and reworked suspension with new springs and dampers. Toyota also upgraded the vehicle stability control, wheel hubs, and brakes to handle the increased mass. The result is a more refined driving experience, with sharper throttle response and improved handling.
Interior and Practicality
The interior remains largely unchanged from the 2022 model, which was already a step up in quality for a city car. There’s reasonable space up front, with decent legroom and storage options. The dashboard features a splash of color, and the infotainment system is user-friendly, with both touchscreen controls and physical buttons.
The boot capacity remains competitive at 231 liters, although the rear seats are best suited for children or occasional use. The hybrid system does introduce a tunnel under the rear seats, further limiting middle-seat practicality.
Fuel Efficiency and Value
The new hybrid system delivers remarkable fuel economy, with Toyota achieving 86mpg during testing. The official figure of 76.3mpg is highly realistic, making the Aygo X one of the most economical petrol city cars on the market. This translates to fewer trips to the gas station and competitive running costs, even when compared to electric rivals.
The Aygo X represents a substantial improvement over its predecessor, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and a surprisingly engaging driving experience. With the introduction of the hybrid system, Toyota has created a city car that is both refined and economical.
