Toyota plans to reinvent the small car segment with the launch of the all-new Aygo X Hybrid, bringing full hybrid power to the A-segment for the first time. The new model will be set to deliver a fun-to-drive experience with enhanced efficiency - an ideal combination for urbanites, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.
With boffins suggesting it'll have the lowest CO2 emissions of any non-plug-in vehicle currently available, the Aygo X Hybrid has already made an impression on us here at Regit - not only for its environmental credentials but also for its accessibility, design, and safety features.
Designed and manufactured in Europe, the Toyota is made to meet the demands of modern urban and suburban living, while retaining the playful personality that has made the Aygo a national treasure for two decades.
Ever since it went on sale in 2022, the Aygo X has been charming style-driven motorists with its SUV styling and crossover charm, as evidenced by sales of over 287,000 in Europe. The ushering in of the hybrid will, likely, build on this success. The model's assertive design embodies urban cool, introducing a fresh and bold grille, along with design elements that look like they’ll age well.
Furthermore – and perhaps more importantly, due to improvements in manufacturing processes and logistics - the new model is expected to have a lower carbon footprint throughout its entire lifecycle compared with the outgoing one.
Scheduled to reach UK showrooms later this year, specific British model details and the range will be confirmed in due course. It is palpable that Toyota can't wait to introduce this updated compact crossover to drivers who need a fun and practical vehicle that's ready for the demands of today's life.
The drivetrain is the Aygo X Hybrid's heartbeat, marking the retirement of the 1.0-litre petrol unit for the more modern hybrid system. The switch not only hikes power delivery and acceleration, but also maintains the Toyota's trademark compactness. New packaging technologies have been employed to ensure that all hybrid components are accommodated without compromising boot space or wheelbase.
It is an exciting time in this sector of the car market, then – as this lively new addition to Toyota's lineup will probably turn perceptions of what's possible in a small crossover on their head.
Indeed, the Aygo X Hybrid appears to be an excellent choice for city motorists. With forecast CO2 emissions as low as 86g/km, it not only achieves but surpasses requirements for low-emission zones. It's therefore a real option for environmentally conscious motorists who’d like to reduce motoring costs as well.
The hybrid powertrain also delivers a more potent output, adding an extra 43bhp more than the previous non-hybrid variant, for a total of 114bhp. With this extra clout, Toyota tells us the car will now get to 62mph in under 10 seconds, making extended journeys both relaxing and less fatiguing.
We were invited to a static reveal only, so we didn't drive the Aygo X Hybrid. However, Toyota assured us that it delivers a serene driving experience. According to the manufacturer, the Aygo X Hybrid also offers nimble handling, making it ideal for navigating congested urban streets. Furthermore, built on the sophisticated GA-B platform, the vehicle's low mounting of batteries contributes to a low centre of gravity and an exceptionally stiff body.
The tight turning circle of 4.7 metres will, claim Toyota, enable you to turn with confidence in small spaces, and parking and manoeuvring in town will be a breeze. Watch this space for a full review when the model hits the roads at the end of 2025 - into 2026!
Toyota's lovely PR team also explained about the car's new noise-reducing features. It has dash silencers, bonnet insulation, and an engine underbody cover, significantly reducing cabin din. Apparently, a redesigned exhaust and silencer contribute to the vehicle’s calm atmosphere, with more premium grades adding additional soundproofing features, such as thicker window glass, to enhance on-road comfort further.
On the safety front, Toyota's new Aygo X Hybrid is equipped with a bunch of potentially life-saving tech. Gadgetry includes an enhanced Pre-Collision System, Lane Trace Assist, and Road Sign Assist, as well as innovations such as the Emergency Driving Stop System and Proactive Driving Assist. For the first time in an Aygo X, over-the-air software updates will keep these safety features constantly optimised, providing you with extra peace of mind.
As alluded to at the top of this piece, the exterior styling is fresh, featuring a high-tech theme that retains the Aygo X’s compact appeal. The front treatment features a restyled bonnet, headlights, and grille, which convey a more assertive attitude and reinforce the low centre of gravity effect. You can choose between 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels and benefit from clever black, flared wheel arches that contribute to the vehicle's sporting appearance.
The forward-positioned shut line of the bonnet provides a clue to its sophistication, which is further enhanced by the integration of turn indicators into the door mirrors, creating a tidy look. The bi-tone colour option, available as an extra, takes this sporting look to the maximum with a deep black area sweeping gracefully from the roof to the rear and down to the side sills.
Sparked by a 'mellow spice' theme, the exterior colour scheme features interesting hues such as Cinnamon, Jasmine, Tarragon, and Lavender. On more premium models, a unique Canvas roof pattern with a graduated design, inspired by the front grille, is also available, adding a touch of exclusivity.
Despite its compact size, the Aygo X Hybrid's interior is cleverly roomy. You can enjoy an elevated driving position with excellent visibility. At the same time, the 231-litre boot area provides space for everything from daily essentials to larger travel bags, with room to spare for four passengers.
Mind you, we tried sitting a six-footer on the rear bench behind another six-footer in the driver’s seat. The only way for the former to sit comfortably was by wrapping his legs around the latter. Not a good look, or a comfy experience – even though we were in a static display studio. So, the rear seats are perhaps best for small kids – if you have them, of course!
The Aygo X’s refreshed look features a modern, connected interior, complete with a new seven-inch digital combimeter and a more elegant heater control panel, creating a contemporary ambience. The car houses an electronic parking brake and two USB-C charging points as standard across all grades. Additional convenience is included in higher specifications, featuring a wireless smartphone charger, powered folding mirrors, and advanced technology for enhanced air quality.
Fundamentally, this Toyota is a compact car that offers a great blend of efficiency, safety and style for urban driving. With its cool design and advanced technology, the Aygo X Hybrid will undoubtedly be a strong competitor in the UK's city car market and looks well-suited to meet the demands of today's modern driver.
