Toyota Aygo X review: is this the world's most efficient car?

Looking at the new Toyota Aygo X, you might think that little has changed.

For 2025, it gets a slightly restyled front end, some new colours and trim and a largely untouched interior. 

However, the changes are vast beneath the metal. The Japanese car maker has crammed in as many new changes as possible, so much so that the new Aygo X is basically a completely new car shoehorned into the body of the old one.

So: what’s new? Most significantly, Toyota has removed the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine used in the previous Aygo X. In its place sits the 1.5-litre, three-cylinder hybrid taken from the Toyota Yaris, which is very significant when it comes to driving economy. 

Performance has also improved dramatically. It now packs 114bhp, up from the 1.0-litre petrol’s 71bhp, and torque is up from 69lb ft to 104lb ft. The 0-62mph time is down from 14.9sec to 9.2sec.

The new engine means the Aygo X is the only full hybrid in its class. It’s now intended to stand as an alternative to the increasing number of electric city cars currently on sale. 

Thanks to its new engine, the Aygo X is very slightly larger than before, and 140kg heavier. It gains a minor update to its front-end design, too. Further changes include new suspension springs and dampers, plus new brakes. In theory, that should mean the Aygo X is far more comfortable than before.

Other changes have been made inside. There’s a new infotainment system, plus a new climate control system. Higher trim models get dual-zone climate control. 

But what is it like to drive? It makes great use of its additional power, and its new setup is perfect for zipping around cities. Plus, it can hold its own on faster roads, where the previous Aygo X struggled.

Thanks to additional noise reduction measures and an electrically assisted engine, the car is now noticeably quieter and more refined. While the characteristic e-CVT whine is present, it is a significant improvement over the strained and rough sound of the 71bhp triple engine.

The most significant plus of the Aygo X is its impressive efficiency. From its new hybrid engine, we achieved 86mpg (3.3 litres/100km). That was without any hypermiling efforts, which means it could achieve even higher. Toyota claims an official economy of 76.3mpg, for reference.

However, it’s not the most fun small car to drive. The steering, while not exceptionally engaging, is light and direct, which is ideal for this type of vehicle. Our test car, fitted with 18-inch wheels, maintained a comfortable ride on most surfaces, struggling only with the most severely damaged roads.

The Aygo X's interior remains a comfortable space. The new information display is adequate, and the infotainment touchscreen is functional. Physical buttons are retained, and while the trim isn't premium, the overall build quality is solid.

Rear space is still restricted, particularly due to the hybrid system's tunnel, which runs through the back of the car and would make it difficult for anyone to fit in comfortably.

For the first time, Toyota will offer a GR Sport version of the Aygo X. This variant will feature bespoke styling elements as well as retuned shock absorbers, springs, and steering. 

While a noticeable increase in sportiness requires close inspection, the slight increase in stiffness doesn't detract from the ride; it might even subtly improve it. These differences are minor, so if the sportier aesthetics appeal to you, it's a worthwhile choice.

The Aygo X is a compelling city car, effectively addressing key requirements for urban driving. It stands out as an innovative and much-needed advancement in a vehicle segment that has faced increasing pressure. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and practicality make it a strong contender.