TOYOTA

THE TOYOTA THAT’S THE NEW BLACK Funny how a car’s cool factor gets ratcheted up by colour alone. Andy Enright dusts down the trendy Toyota Aygo Black Special Edition

It may sound like a cliché but gather together any bunch of media types, advertising creatives, conceptual artists or any other group of the self absorbed and affected and chances are they’ll be clad in black. There’s a Teflon neutrality to black that makes it a difficult colour to get badly wrong. Think little black dress versus yellow polka dot bikini and you’ll get the point. Toyota’s ‘coolhunters’ have exploited this perceived trendiness in the past and now it’s time for their little Aygo citycar to come in for Black Special Edition status.

The Tempest Black metallic colour might be something of a giveaway but there’s more to this particular Aygo special edition than just a pretty coat of paint. Based on the 1.0-litre petrol model, the Black adheres to the tried and tested special edition formula of bundling in a bunch of extra equipment for a nominal mark up. Which means that buyers can expect to find features like ‘turbine-style’ eight-spoke alloy wheels, Aygo-branded scuff plates and leather gear knob. Other standard features include a six-speaker sound system with auxiliary input to link an iPod or digital music player, remote central locking, a split-folding rear seat, electric front windows, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger. Both three and five-door body styles are available and prices start from £7,995. That compares to standard Aygo models which cost from £6,845. The standard line-up consists of two trim levels (Aygo and Aygo+), with most versions powered by the same 67bhp three-cylinder one-litre engine used in the Black version. 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 Aygo’s fascia a very modern appearance.

"The Aygo Black looks a more polished and mature product compared to citycar rivals"

The steering column is adjustable for both reach and rake, the speedometer binnacle moving with the wheel. Coupled with plenty of driver’s seat travel and ample headroom, there shouldn’t 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. That’s 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 Aygo’s modern outlook. The upgraded version used in the Black includes an extra pair of rear speakers and some neat tweeters integrated into the car’s A-pillars. Mind you, when considering this special edition’s equipment tally, bear in mind that even base level Aygo variants are pretty well specified. Even the entry-level version includes colour keyed bumpers, twin front airbags, and anti lock brakes with the backup of electronic brakeforce. 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. Naturally, in terms of performance, you need to remember that the Aygo is a citycar first and foremost, something reflected in a sprint to 60mph that takes 14 seconds. The good news is the fact that the 1.0-litre petrol engine is predictably excellent in terms of fuel economy and emissions. 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 world’s lightest production engine. 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. Already, compared to its French rivals, Toyota’s Aygo looked a more polished, mature product, something underlined by this Black special edition. This model’s design has brought a welcome dose of style and sophistication to a market traditionally populated with econoboxes. For that, if nothing else, Toyota should be applauded.

FACTS AT A GLANCE CAR: Toyota Aygo Black special edition PRICE: £7,995- £8,245 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 1E CO2 EMISSIONS: 109g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 14.2s / Max Speed 98mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 51.4mpg / (extra urban) 68.9mpg / (combined) 61.4mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags on all except entry-level model, ABS, EBD WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height 3405/1615/1415mm

BLUE HEAVEN Steve Ghosley checks out Toyota’s latest Aygo Blue Special Edition

If you’re trying to sell a car that you perceive to be cool, then the obvious colour to choose would be blue. That’s precisely what Toyota have done with their latest version of the Aygo. The Aygo Blue sits alongside the Platinum model at the top of a revised line up and features a new dedicated Slate Blue metallic paint finish.

The unique metallic colour might be something of a giveaway but there’s more to this particular Aygo than just a pretty coat of paint. Based, like all Aygos, on 1.0-litre petrol power, the Blue adheres to the tried and tested special edition formula of bundling in a bunch of extra equipment for a nominal mark up in price. Buyers can expect to find features like the provision of Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free use of mobile phones. And blue means cool, too, with air conditioning also provided as standard, the system including an integrated pollen filter and air recirculation function. A leather gear knob and a glovebox with lid complete the array of special features, but owners can go much further by choosing from a series of bespoke Aygo option packs. ‘Aygo Xtra Protected’ equips the car for life in the urban jungle with rear parking sensors, mud flaps and unpainted rear and side protection strips, while ‘Aygo Style’ adds élan with alloy wheels, front fog lamps and front scuff plates. Both three and five-door body styles are available and ‘Blue’ prices start from £8,045. That compares to standard Aygo models which cost from around £7,000. Naturally, in terms of performance, you need to remember that the Aygo Blue is a citycar first and foremost, something reflected in a sprint to 60mph that takes 14 seconds. The good news is the fact that the 1.0-litre petrol engine is predictably excellent in terms of fuel economy and emissions. The combined economy figure is 61.4mpg and emissions are pegged at a laudable 109g/km.

"The Aygo Blue should appeal to those looking to stand out from the crowd without being too garish…."

These figures are helped by the fact that the 1.0-litre is billed as the world’s lightest production engine. 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 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 Aygo’s fascia a very modern appearance. The steering column is adjustable for both reach and rake, the speedometer binnacle moving with the wheel. Coupled with plenty of driver’s seat travel and ample headroom, there shouldn’t 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. That’s perhaps forgivable, as there is only so much that can be done within the strictures of a 2.34 metre wheelbase. Certainly, Toyota’s Aygo Blue offers a decent package that should appeal to those looking to stand out from the crowd without being too garish. The option packs are a neat idea to limit the basic price but also provide customers with more money to spend the choice of personalising their Aygo to their own tastes. The Aygo overall is a fascinating car. Although some cynics have suggested that Toyota needed a low emission car in order to continue selling hugely profitable Landcruisers due to global CO2 weighting regulations, it’s a worthy entrant to the Toyota line up. Marriage of convenience or otherwise, there’s little doubt that compared to its French rivals, the Aygo looks a more polished, mature product. Whether it will continue to sell as well given Citroen and Peugeot’s excellent promotional track record with small cars remains to be seen but the Aygo has brought a welcome dose of style and sophistication to a market traditionally populated with econoboxes. For that, if nothing else, Toyota should be applauded.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Toyota Aygo Blue PRICE: £8,045-£8,895 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 1E CO2 EMISSIONS: 109g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 14.2s / Max Speed 98mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 51.4mpg / (extra urban) 68.9mpg / (combined) 61.4mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags on all except entry-level model, ABS, EBD WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height 3405/1615/1415mm July 1st 2008

COGITO AYGO SUM Andy Enright reports on the Toyota Aygo citycar’s quest to win hearts and minds…

There have been some fascinating partnerships between car companies down the years. Quite how Citroen and Maserati found themselves in bed together to produce the Citroen SM makes bizarre reading. The experiment between Saab, Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Lancia back in the eighties to produce a common family saloon platform also had mixed results. Volkswagen, SEAT and Ford all made hay with their MPV vehicle collaboration and the same can be said for the Citroen, Peugeot and Fiat MPVs that subsequently usurped the throne. Toyota’s Aygo is the result of another triple pronged assault, this time in conjunction with Citroen and Peugeot, and the target is the citycar market.

Compared to its Peugeot 107 and Citroen C1 counterparts, it’s obvious that Toyota have gone to greater lengths to visually differentiate the Aygo. This is reflected in a marginally higher sticker price, but for many the treatment of the front grille and lights and the smooth way the rear lamp clusters have been integrated will be enough to swing the balance. Built in the Czech Republic, the car will be sold in volume. Toyota are aiming to shift 100,000 units per year across Europe but they shouldn’t find that a problem. The range starts at £7,000 and consists of two main trim levels (Aygo and Aygo+) plus special Platinum and Blue models, with all versions powered by the same 67bhp three-cylinder one-litre engine. 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 Aygo’s 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 driver’s seat travel and ample headroom, there shouldn’t 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. That’s 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 Aygo’s 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 player. The upper specification models also add an extra pair of rear speakers and some neat tweeters integrated into the car’s 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 distribution. 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. Considering the bargain basement pricing of Citroen and Peugeot counterparts, it’s this model that looks set to be the most popular Aygo. Air conditioning is an option for the + and 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 Aygo is a citycar first and foremost, reflected in a sprint to 60mph that takes 14 seconds. The good news is the fact that the 1.0-litre petrol engine is predictably excellent in terms of fuel economy and emissions. 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 world’s lightest production engine. A five-speed manual transmission is the default choice, but Toyota’s 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. Although some cynics have suggested that Toyota needed a low emission car in order to continue selling hugely profitable Landcruisers due to global CO2 weighting regulations, it’s a worthy entrant to the Toyota line up. Marriage of convenience or otherwise, there’s little doubt that compared to its French rivals, the Aygo looks a more polished, mature product. Whether it will sell as well given Citroen and Peugeot’s excellent promotional track record with small cars remains to be seen but the Aygo has brought a welcome dose of style and sophistication to a market traditionally populated with econoboxes. For that, if nothing else, Toyota should be applauded.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Toyota Aygo range PRICES: £7,000-£8,395 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 1E CO2 EMISSIONS: 109g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 14.2s / Max Speed 98mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 51.4mpg / (extra urban) 68.9mpg / (combined) 61.4mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags on all except entry-level model, ABS, EBD WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height 3405/1615/1415mm

A PLATINUM INVESTMENT? Jonathan Crouch checks out Toyota’s latest Aygo Platinum Special Edition

Colour is crucial when choosing your car, especially a funky city car like the Toyota Aygo that’s as much a style statement as a mode of transport for getting you about town. Unsurprisingly, the Aygo Platinum special edition model we’re looking at here has its own unique metallic shade of Crystal Silver.

The Platinum intends to emphasise the car’s design flare with a range of cosmetic enhancements. This is supposed to be an Aygo you buy with your heart. The metallic Crystal Silver paint and 14" Turbine alloy wheels combine to striking effect outside while the interior is given a new dynamic dimension by the sports leather steering wheel and leather gearknob. The highlight though is the Alcantara trim. This high end material is normally the preserve of performance hatchbacks and sports cars and in the Aygo Platinum, it looks outstanding. Tally up all the extras on the Aygo Platinum and you’ll reach a total of £980 worth. When you consider the £8,045 asking price, the car looks like a real bargain. Things get even better too. Toyota are offering the Aygo Platinum with 0% finance for a limited period so you can spread the cost into manageable instalments with nothing extra to pay. Sounds like a not to be missed opportunity. Naturally, in terms of performance, you need to remember that the Aygo is a citycar first and foremost, something reflected in a sprint to 60mph that takes 14 seconds. The good news is the fact that the 1.0-litre petrol engine is predictably excellent in terms of fuel economy and emissions. The combined economy figure is 61.4mpg and emissions are pegged at a laudable 109g/km.

"The Aygo is a fascinating car, made more appealing in this guise with the Platinum trimmings. …."

These figures are helped by the fact that the 1.0-litre is billed as the world’s lightest production engine. 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 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 Aygo’s fascia a very modern appearance. The steering column is adjustable for both reach and rake, the speedometer binnacle moving with the wheel. Coupled with plenty of driver’s seat travel and ample headroom, there shouldn’t 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. That’s perhaps forgivable, as there is only so much that can be done within the strictures of a 2.34 metre wheelbase. The Aygo overall is a fascinating car, made more appealing in this guise with the Platinum trimmings. Although some cynics have suggested that Toyota needed a low emission car in order to continue selling hugely profitable Landcruisers due to global CO2 weighting regulations, it’s a worthy entrant to the Toyota line up. Marriage of convenience or otherwise, there’s little doubt that compared to its French rivals, the Aygo looks a more polished, mature product. Whether it will continue to sell as well given Citroen and Peugeot’s excellent promotional track record with small cars remains to be seen but the Aygo has brought a welcome dose of style and sophistication to a market traditionally populated with econoboxes. For that, if nothing else, Toyota should be applauded.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Toyota Aygo Platinum special edition PRICE: £8,045-£8,895 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 1E CO2 EMISSIONS: 109g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 14.2s / Max Speed 98mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 51.4mpg / (extra urban) 68.9mpg / (combined) 61.4mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags on all except entry-level model, ABS, EBD WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height 3405/1615/1415mm 2nd July 2008

EYE-CATCHING AYGO Models Covered: (3/5dr hatchback 1.0 petrol, 1.4 diesel [Aygo, Aygo+, Sport])

BY ANDY ENRIGHT

Just when we thought the Yaris was the definitive small Toyota, the Japanese company brought us the Aygo. Cheeky, smart and keenly priced, the Aygo was one third of a partnership that also produced the Citroën C1 and the Peugeot 107. Had Toyota risked their impeccable build quality record for a quick hit? It would seem not as Aygo owners seem very satisfied with their cars. Used examples are available if you search for them and they’re well worth tracking down.

The Aygo came about due to inflation. As the Yaris got bigger, room was freed up at the bottom of Toyota’s product portfolio for a city car. Even for a company of Toyota’s financial muscle, building an entirely new small car platform is not an inconsequential expense. What’s more, carbon dioxide weighting regulations meant that they needed a new small car quickly in order to continue selling big models like the Land Cruiser. For the Aygo project, they teamed up with Citroën and Peugeot. This at first seemed a gamble, as Toyota’s reputation for reliability is way ahead of either of these French companies and the scope for customising the basic package isn’t enormous. Nevertheless, public reaction to the Aygo has been promising, helped by a canny piece of PR whereby a team of Aygos were given to BBC’s Top Gear to use in a giant football match. The 1.0-litre petrol engine was initially the only powerplant offered when the Aygo was launched in May 2005 but a 1.4-litre diesel followed in February 2006.

Compared to its Peugeot 107 and Citroen C1 counterparts, it’s obvious that Toyota went to greater lengths to visually differentiate the Aygo. This was reflected in a marginally higher sticker price, but for many the treatment of the front grille and lights and the smooth way the rear lamp clusters have been integrated will be enough to swing the balance. Built in the Czech Republic, the car features front and rear overhangs that were 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. Colour choices aren’t extensive with Chilli Red being the standard paint finish while the upper spec models also get the option of Ice Blue and Carbon Quartz metallic. 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 Aygo’s fascia a very modern appearance. The steering column is adjustable for both reach and rake, the speedometer binnacle moving with the wheel. Coupled with plenty of driver’s seat travel and ample headroom, there shouldn’t 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. That’s 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 Aygo’s 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 minidisk player. The upper specification models also add an extra pair of rear speakers and some neat tweeters integrated into the car’s 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 distribution. 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. As a result of the bargain basement pricing of Citroen and Peugeot counterparts, it’s this model that many fingered as the most popular Aygo. 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. 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.

Prices start at around £6,000 for a 1.0-litre Aygo, with the Sport model commanding £6,400 on a 2005 05 plate. You’ll still need around £7,700 to get your hands on one of the desirable diesel variants. For most, the petrol will work out the more cost-effective proposition. As you might well expect, insurance for the Aygo is extremely cheap with the 1.0-litre cars rated at Group 1 and the 1.4-litre diesels at Group 2.

The Aygo is too new for any significant faults to emerge, and being a Toyota, it’s likely to be a long time until they do. Insist on a fully stamped up service record.

(approx based on a 2006 Aygo+ 1.0) Aygo spares are competitively priced and it’s not unknown for Citroën C1 and Peugeot 107 owners to make a visit to their Toyota dealers to take advantage of this fact. A starter motor costs around £100 and brake pads are £25 a set.

The Aygo is a citycar first and foremost, reflected in a sprint to 60mph that takes 14 seconds. The good news is the fact that the 1.0-litre petrol engine is predictably excellent in terms of fuel economy and emissions. 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 was billed as the world’s lightest production engine. A five-speed manual transmission is the default choice, but Toyota’s 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. With 55bhp on tap, the 1.4-litre common-rail injection diesel engine actually generates less power than the 68bhp petrol alternative and posts a slower 0-60mph time but it dwarfs the 3-cylinder unit with its massively superior torque. If your Toyota is to be used for low speed, urban motoring where every traffic light seems to be red and pulling out of junctions is a pedal to the metal, drop the clutch affair, the 130Nm of torque available from 1,750rpm in the diesel will be a real boon. The petrol option can only manage 93Nm at a lofty 6,000rpm, so that gesticulating driver you’ve just pulled out in front of will be looming in the mirror like he’s sitting in your back seat by the time you get up to speed. The diesel displays more muscularity than the petrol alternative at the kind of velocities that urban congestion forces us to do and its punchy nature should assist in extricating yourself from sticky situations. The penalty you pay for this is that it’s substantially noisier than the petrol when idling and cruising.

Citycars used to be about as sophisticated as a karaoke night at the Queen Vic. The Toyota Aygo shows just how far they’ve come and makes a very convincing case for itself as a viable downsizing option. As a used buy, it’s not the cheapest citycar you’ll find but it might just be the best.