Toyota Aygo X Hybrid

Since its launch in 2022, the Toyota Aygo X has carved out a distinct place in the city car segment. With its raised ground clearance, small-crossover look and compact dimensions, it targets urban drivers looking for a practical car with a bold style.

This new version is not just a simple facelift. For the first time, the Aygo X adopts a full hybrid powertrain. The goal is simple: to deliver more performance while reducing consumption and CO₂ emissions.

A design that stays true to the city

The Aygo X keeps its visual identity, with its pronounced wheel arches and compact crossover silhouette. The main changes concern the front end, which adopts a more modern style inspired by Toyota’s recent models. The redesigned headlights and the black strip connecting them emphasise the car’s visual width.

Integrating the hybrid technology required a few technical adjustments, notably a slightly longer front overhang. The 0.8 kWh battery is fitted under the rear bench seat, which preserves boot space.

Our test car, in GR Sport trim, stands out with a sportier look featuring two-tone bodywork, specific alloy wheels and slightly revised suspension settings.

A more modern cabin

Inside, the changes are subtle but welcome. The driver now gets a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, while the infotainment system can be fitted with a 9-inch touchscreen compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Toyota has kept physical controls for essential functions, notably the climate control, a choice that still makes sense for everyday use. Comfort also improves thanks to more thorough sound insulation.

While the materials remain simple, with mostly hard plastics, assembly quality is good. The raised driving position remains one of the model’s strong points. In the rear, space for adults stays limited, but the city car still offers a 231-litre boot despite the addition of hybrid technology.

Hybrid technology inherited from the Yaris

The main novelty lies under the bonnet. The 72 hp petrol engine gives way to the Hybrid 115 system already used in the Toyota Yaris and Yaris Cross.

This drivetrain pairs a 1.5-litre petrol engine running on the Atkinson cycle with an electric motor, for a combined output of 116 hp. That’s a substantial gain, representing more than 40 hp over the previous version.

As with other Toyota hybrids, drive is transmitted via an e-CVT gearbox. The system operates fully automatically. In town, the Aygo X can frequently run in electric mode when pulling away and at low speeds. Under braking and deceleration, energy is recovered to recharge the battery.

More powerful, and just as frugal

This new powertrain transforms how the Aygo X behaves. The 0-100 km/h sprint is now achieved in 9.2 seconds, compared with nearly 15 seconds before. Merging onto fast roads and overtaking become noticeably more comfortable.

But it is above all in efficiency that this hybrid impresses. Toyota quotes consumption of between 3.7 and 3.9 l/100 km. During our test, carried out mainly in urban and suburban conditions, we recorded an average of 3.8 l/100 km, a result perfectly in line with the manufacturer’s figures.

With its 30-litre tank, range can exceed 600 kilometres. In town, where energy recovery is most effective, the Aygo X makes full use of its hybrid technology, cutting both consumption and noise levels.

Agility also remains one of its key strengths. Thanks to its low weight, its GA-B platform and a turning circle of just 4.7 metres, it feels particularly at home in city centres.

Verdict

With this update, Toyota succeeds in modernising its smallest model without changing its philosophy. More powerful, much more pleasant to drive and still very frugal, the Aygo X Hybrid is now one of the most compelling offerings in its segment. A city car that proves hybrid technology has its place, even in the smallest of vehicles.