The second-generation Toyota Aygo debuted in 2015 with a highly-expressive design incorporating a strong “X”-motif across the front grille section and ‘X-inspired’ design themes throughout.
For 2018, the ‘super-mini’ receives a makeover with a fresh new design paying homage to the original X-motif.
Dashing design
The standout feature of the facelifted Aygo are large projector headlights, incorporating prominent LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) which utilise a light guide to trace the inner border of the headlight housing.
These stylised headlights are borrowed from its larger C-HR sibling.
Image: Motorpress
The “X”-motif is retained with strong contour lines framing the large trapezoidal air vents, intersected by a large Toyota insignia in the centre. A black lower apron adds depth to the bold front façade.
The five-door silhouette is given a sporty touch with the upswept rear window line and sloping roofline. As before the rear design centres on the vertically-positioned, boomerang-shaped taillights which feature newly-designed light elements. A large, blacked-out tailgate and lower bumper area continues the “X”-theme at the rear.
Cool convenience
Inside it benefits from one-piece, moulded, front bucket seats, multi-tone fabric trim, visible exterior-colour panels and orange-hued illumination.
Standard kit includes a touchscreen audio system with USB, Auxiliary and Bluetooth functionality, steering switch operation and onboard computer. The audio system also features smartphone connectivity via the USB port.
Image: Motorpress
The usual fare of power windows, remote central locking, power-adjustable side mirrors, air-conditioning and 12-volt accessory connector are provided.
The distinctive, stacked instrument cluster includes a circular Multi-information Display (MID), housed within the large and easy-to-read speedometer. A tachometer and shift indicator flank the multi-dimensional gauge layout.
Supplemented safety
All Aygo derivatives are now equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Hill Assist Control (HAC), which join the ABS and Brake Assist (BA) functions - as part of Toyota’s continued vehicle safety strategy.
Passive safety items include front - and side airbags, ISOFIX provisions and 3-point seatbelts with force limiter and pretensioners.
Enhanced engine
The 998cc three-cylinder engine has been tweaked to provide an additional 2kW bringing the power output to 53kW/93Nm – whilst fuel consumption has been lowered to a sparing 4.3 litre/100km. The CO2 output figure has also been reduced to 97g/km.
Improvements to the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) performance have also been made, ensuring that Aygo offers a quieter and smoother drive.
Distinctive Derivatives
Three distinct variants of Aygo are offered; the X-Play version ups the ante with a striking bi-tone design, available as either X-Play Black (Red body with black roof) or X-Play Silver (Black body with silver roof). Both standard and X-Play models ride on 14” wheels shod with 165-65R14 tyres.
Image: Motorpress
The flagship X-Cite model is aimed at expressive customers seeking even more street cred. A power-retractable black canvas ‘Funroof’ allows occupants to experience open-air motoring at the touch of a button. Ice White exterior paint is the standard configuration on X-Cite models whilst buyers can additionally choose from six other colours (on customer order).
The X-Cite model maximises its visual appeal with diamond-shaped 15” alloy wheels, fitted with 165-60R15 tyres.
2018 Toyota Aygo:
Aygo - R166 800
Aygo X-Play Black - R169 100
Aygo X-Play Silver - R169 100
Aygo X-Cite - R193 100
All Aygo models are sold with a 3-year/100 000 kilometre warranty. A range of different service plan options are available for purchase from your Toyota dealer.