Toyota AygoAndy Enright Reports. Toyotas Aygo is the result of triple pronged assault in conjunction with Citroen and Peugeot, and the target is the citycar market. The range consists of three trim levels (Aygo, Aygo+ and Sport), with most versions powered by the same 67bhp three-cylinder one-litre engine. Theres also a 55bhp 1.4-litre diesel variant also on offer. Both three and five door variants are offered and although the initial show cars wowed the crowds with their seventeen inch wheels and non-standard paint jobs, the production ready cars are also very neatly finished. The front and rear overhangs have been kept short so as to maximise interior space and make parking simple. The tale of the tape shows a 3.4 metre overall length, which is almost 23cm shorter than a modern MINI. The interior features a two-tone dashboard with a textured effect, while the door trims feature body coloured detailing. One of the more eye-catching features is the design of the ventilation controls on the centre console. Two large wheels bookend the console with a translucent panel sitting between them. Coupled with the funky, minimalist instrument panel, they give the Aygos fascia a very modern appearance. "The Aygo moves the game on in terms of citycar styling and sophistication" The steering column is adjustable for both reach and rake, the speedometer binnacle moving with the wheel. Coupled with plenty of drivers seat travel and ample headroom, there shouldnt be a problem getting comfortable behind the wheel of the Aygo. Sitting behind a tall driver is another issue altogether and rear space is a little pinched with the front seat at the back of its travel. Thats perhaps forgivable, as there is only so much that can be done within the strictures of a 2.34 metre wheelbase. The audio system reflects the Aygos modern outlook. The standard setup features the usual AM/FM radio and CD player but also includes a connection socket for other audio hardware such as an MP3 or a minidisk player. The upper specification models also add an extra pair of rear speakers and some neat tweeters integrated into the cars A-pillars. Even the entry-level car is well equipped and includes colour keyed bumpers, twin front airbags, and anti lock brakes with the backup of electronic brakeforce. The + grade adds colour-keyed door mirrors and handles, electric front windows, a split folding rear seat, remote central locking, a keyless entry system, side airbags and an ISOFIX child seat attachment. Fork out a little extra and the Aygo Sport factors in 14-inch alloy wheels, integrated front fog lights and a tachometer. Air conditioning is an option for both the + and the Sport. Two options packs are available. The Travel Pack features Aygo-branded Samsonite luggage. This constitutes a glove box bag, a trolley and a rucksack. Likely to prove more popular is the Mobility Pack which adds a TomTom Aygo satellite navigation pod with a three year warranty, map update package and radio integration. The combined economy figure is 61.4mpg and emissions are pegged at a laudable 109g/km. These figures are helped by the fact that the 1.0-litre is billed as the worlds lightest production engine. A five-speed manual transmission is the default choice, but Toyotas Multi-mode Manual Transmission is also available as an option, offering clutchless gear changing for those who want to take the drag out of city driving. Effort is further removed by the fitment of electrically assisted power steering, making light work of turning the Aygo about face in just 9.46 metres. The Aygo is a fascinating car. Facts At A Glance For information on the history of Toyota cars, visit the website: www.toyota.co.jp/en/history/index.html |