Toyota Aygo driver test: Mr. X.

First impressions of the trio's boldest-looking member, the Toyota Aygo

Even a quick look at the new Toyota Aygo is enough to make one thing clear: this is one of those cars that you either like or don't like, finding a middle ground is almost impossible. The stylized X element dominates the layout of a number of key elements - the front of the body, the rear of the car and even the center console. From any point of view, the baby looks defiant, interesting and definitely different from everything that we are used to seeing in the segment of small urban models. The customization options are also impressively rich - the Toyota Aygo can be ordered in six versions, each with its own distinctive stylistic accents. This time, Toyota deserves admiration for daring to create a model that dares to defy existing dogma and has a real chance of becoming a favorite of those who are looking for the unusual and provocative.

Surprisingly spacious inside

Anyone who thinks that behind the youthful appearance and modest external dimensions of the body hides a car in which a person is forced to compromise on functionality, comfort or safety, is on an absolutely wrong path. Especially in the front seats, even tall and large people can sit comfortably without having acrobatic skills. Even in the second row, the ride is much more comfortable than originally thought. Only the trunk is relatively small, but with a body length of only 3,45 meters, this is quite understandable. The driving position and visibility from the driver's seat is a pleasant experience, and the presence of a rear-view camera in more expensive versions is an additional pleasant surprise for a car in this price segment.

Perfectly cooked in town

With its 69 hp At 6000 rpm and 95 Nm at 4300 rpm, the Toyota Aygo's one-litre, three-cylinder engine doesn't promise much on paper, but thanks to the amazing ease with which the little car picks up speed, as well as well-chosen gear ratios, the car shows good temperament in urban conditions and even the rudiments of sporty driving pleasure. The voice of the three-cylinder unit, operating without an additional balancing shaft, is clear, but not overly loud, and the soundproofing of the body far exceeds expectations from this type of model. Adding to the fun character of the ride is the surprisingly balanced road behavior - the Toyota Aygo changes direction quickly and agilely, and the driving comfort is surprisingly pleasant for a city car with a wheelbase of just 2,34 meters. Only good things can be said about the stability of the road - thanks to the newly developed rear suspension with torsion bars, the car remains stable even with rather rude provocations from the driver, the ESP system works happily in harmony, the braking system is also presented at the level.

We will not surprise anyone with the mention that longer transitions are not quite a favorite pastime of Toyota Aygo, but quite objectively, the model is not afraid of them and quite “manly” copes with such tasks - the steering works quite smoothly and it is the behavior on the road that inspires confidence both on the highway and in corner-heavy sections, the ride remains decent even on rough roads, and interior noise levels are kept within reasonable limits.

In terms of pricing, Toyota is definitely not as modest as it was in the first model release this time around, but objectively higher prices are supported by richer and more modern equipment and more mature character of the car in general.

CONCLUSION

The expressive layout ensures that the new Toyota Aygo is unlikely to go unnoticed. But what is more valuable is that in the second generation the model turned into an absolutely complete and modern subcompact car that works brilliantly in the city, but is not afraid to travel outside the protected areas, going on long journeys. ... With good comfort, modern equipment, safe driving behavior, excellent maneuverability and ample temperament, the Toyota Aygo's economical driving does not allow itself any significant weaknesses.

Text: Bozhan Boshnakov

Photos: Toyota