Toyota Aygo X: Hybrid Power & Sharper Design

Toyota Aygo X Hybrid Power Sharper Design

Toyota’s smallest crossover, the Aygo X, has received a significant mid-lifecycle update. This refresh introduces groundbreaking hybrid technology, a more assertive design, and a new, sportier GR Sport trim. The facelifted Aygo X now features the same self-charging hybrid powertrain found in the larger Toyota Yaris. This integration delivers enhanced performance and substantially reduced emissions, setting a new benchmark for urban vehicles.

 

Pioneering Full Hybrid Technology in City Cars

The updated Aygo X marks a pivotal moment in the compact car market.

 

First A-Segment Full Hybrid

Traditionally, city cars and small urban crossovers have relied on internal combustion engines (ICE), mild-hybrid systems, or fully electric powertrains. Toyota, however, is making a bold move by equipping the Aygo X with a full hybrid setup for Europe’s A-Segment. This innovation means the Aygo X is saying goodbye to its previous 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine. It now embraces a more efficient and powerful 1.5-liter hybrid unit.

 

Enhanced Performance and Eco-Friendliness

This new powertrain is the largest and most powerful ever fitted in a production Aygo. It combines a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter engine with a single electric motor, generating a combined output of 114 hp (85 kW / 116 PS). This represents a substantial increase of 43 hp (44 PS) compared to its non-electrified predecessors. Power is smoothly transmitted to the front wheels via an e-CVT gearbox. Toyota states that the Aygo X can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in less than 10 seconds.

 

More importantly, its CO2 emissions have been dramatically reduced to just 86 g/km. This is currently the lowest among all non-plug-in cars available for sale. These low emissions offer clear environmental benefits and also strategically allow Toyota to introduce more ICE-powered GR (Gazoo Racing) models in Europe and the UK.

 

Design Evolution and Structural Adaptations

The updated Aygo X showcases a more aggressive visual identity, alongside subtle but important structural changes.

 

Sharper Exterior Styling

Visually, the facelifted Aygo X distinguishes itself with a more “angrier” and assertive front fascia. The redesigned headlights are now seamlessly connected by a sleek trim piece, flowing into a prominent, massive grille on the front bumper. While much of the bodywork remains consistent with the 2021 model, key updates include a restyled hood and front fenders, the repositioning of side indicators onto the mirror caps, and the introduction of a fresh color palette to enhance its modern appeal.

 

Platform Adjustments

The integration of the new, larger engine was made possible by the Aygo X’s GA-B architecture. This platform is shared with the Toyota Yaris and Yaris Cross, providing a robust foundation. To accommodate the new powertrain, Toyota extended the front overhang by 76 mm (3 inches). This increases the overall length of the vehicle to 3,776 mm (148.7 inches), while maintaining the same 2,430 mm (95.7 inches) wheelbase for nimble city maneuverability.

 

Enhanced Interior Features and Cabin Comfort

The interior of the updated Aygo X receives several thoughtful upgrades focused on technology, comfort, and sustainability.

 

Modernized Cabin Tech

Inside, drivers will find a new 7-inch digital instrument cluster, providing clear and customizable driving information. The climate controls have been redesigned for improved ergonomics, and a standard electronic parking brake adds convenience. For modern connectivity, the cabin now includes wireless charging and two USB-C charging ports. The infotainment display appears slightly tweaked, likely retaining its 9-inch diameter in higher-specification models.

 

Sustainable Materials and Advanced Safety

Toyota has incorporated recycled plastic and fabrics for the upholstery, creating an animal product-free cabin. Equipment also boasts an upgraded Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suite. This advanced driver-assistance system will continue to improve over time through convenient over-the-air (OTA) software updates, ensuring the vehicle’s safety features remain cutting-edge.

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Uncompromised Storage

Despite the addition of hybrid components, Toyota emphasizes that there is no loss of storage capacity. The Aygo X retains the same practical 231-liter (8.2 cubic feet) boot space as its non-electrified predecessor. This clever packaging is achieved by longitudinally positioning two stacks of battery cells beneath the rear seats, with the auxiliary battery relocated under the load compartment, optimizing interior space.

 

Quieter Driving Experience

All versions of the facelifted Aygo X benefit from a significantly quieter cabin. This improvement is a result of various noise-reduction components, including dash silencers, bonnet insulation, and an engine underbody cover. An updated exhaust system and silencer further contribute to reduced noise.

 

High-specification trims also feature thicker window glass and additional soundproofing throughout the body, ensuring a more serene driving experience.

 

The Sporty Aygo X GR Sport

The Aygo X lineup now includes a dynamic GR Sport grade, bringing a sportier edge to the city car.

 

Visual and Chassis Enhancements

The GR Sport trim makes the Aygo X the latest model to gain the performance-inspired GR badge. This sportiest Aygo is visually distinguished by special 18-inch alloy wheels, a unique grille with a honeycomb pattern and faux air intakes, and subtle GR emblems both inside and out. It also offers an exclusive Mustard bi-tone shade complemented by a contrasting black hood. While the GR Sport trim does not add extra power to the hybrid powertrain, it benefits from a refined new chassis setup.

 

This includes retuned shock absorbers and coil springs, along with a sharper calibration for the electric power steering, promising a more engaging and exciting driving experience.

 

Market Launch and Pricing

The facelifted Toyota Aygo X is scheduled for its market launch towards the end of 2025 in Europe and the UK.

 

Anticipated Pricing

While specific pricing details will be announced closer to the launch date, the integration of hybrid technology will likely make it significantly more expensive than its predecessor. However, it is expected to have a lower starting price than the slightly larger Yaris Hybrid, which currently begins at £23,445 (approximately $31,700) in the UK. This strategic pricing aims to position the Aygo X competitively within the burgeoning hybrid compact car market.

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