Car reviews

Introduction

The Aygo is Toyotas idea of the perfect city runabout and with its frugal and lively 1.0-litre engine. It is almost well made and provides sharp handling making it a good little car. It was built in conjunction with Citroen and Peugeot in order to share the costs with all the cars being built in the same factory in Kolin, the Czech Republic. The Aygo gets its name on the basis of ’i-go’ that Toyota says is to symbolize mobility and freedom and is aimed primarily at the twenty-something iPod generation.

Exterior & Interior

The Aygo has a funky style that is carried throughout the vehicle and which is aimed at the younger generations. The interior feels airier than you would suspect from the outside and the materials used throughout are of a good quality which helps put the Aygo ahead of its rivals. The centre console is stylish with backlit controls and you can find all the main instruments situated near the steering column. The front seats are slightly narrow but are still comfortable to sit in and there is only room for two passengers in the back, although the leg and headroom may feel restricted for taller passengers.

The only real downside is the boot as it is only 139litres which is just about big enough to get a few bags of shopping in and a kit bag or two. The high lip also makes life difficult as it is hard to squeeze in bulkier items. On the higher level Sport models the back seats split 50/50 enabling you to fold them down to increase the space and if needs be still get a second passenger in. There are other pockets situated throughout the cabin including the cubby hole which increases the storage space by 25 litres.

There are three trim levels to choose from in the petrol engine which start with the basic entry level trim which comes with an iPod and Mp3-compatible stereo, ABS, height adjustable steering, twin airbags, power steering and folding rear seats. The next level, the ’Plus’ trim comes with electric front windows, remote central locking, side airbags, split folding rear seats and a better audio system. The top level ’Sport’ trim comes with alloys and a rev counter. If you want air-con though that is an added extra and is only available on the top two trim levels, along with a touch screen TomTom navigation system. The diesel engines were only ever available in the Plus and Sport trim.

Drive

The Aygo is fun and nippy to drive thanks to its lively engines, short overhangs and wide stance which all make it the perfect car for driving around town. The steering can feel vague at times, but it is still responsive and precise making parking easy as well as darting through small spaces in the traffic. It also has good levels of grip and very little body roll in the corners unless pushed hard. The ride is also surprisingly smooth with the cabin and its occupants being well protected from all but the worst bumps.

Faults & Repairs

The Toyota has an excellent record when it comes to reliability, and the Aygo is no exception. There have been no recalls or any serious faults that have been reported. The servicing prices are lighter on the wallet compared to most other rivals although in order to keep it running as smooth as possible these should be carried out regularly.