2019 Toyota Aygo Exterior, Interior, Drive – Video

Launched in 2005, the first generation AYGO was designed to attract young, urban-based customers, and to bring a greater sense of playfulness to the Toyota brand.

AYGO was not only Toyota’s first model in the compact city car segment, but also the result of a new joint-venture with PSA, with the cars specifically developed for Europe and produced at the new TPCA (Toyota Peugeot Citroën Automobile) factory in Kolin, Czech Republic.

With new colours introduced every year, regular special editions in local markets and major product updates in 2008 and 2012, AYGO remained fresh throughout its lifecycle, to which total sales of more than 760,000 units, and customer conquest and brand loyalty ratings well above those of the average A-segment car attest.

Since its launch in 2014, the current AYGO has been a notable success for Toyota in the European A-segment. Its instantly recognisable, trademark ‘X’ frontal design and the broad range of customisation options it offered ensured that it always stood out from the crowd.

 

 

Appealing to a more style-conscious audience than those who buy their cars for purely rational reasons, the AYGO’s striking good looks and engaging driving characteristics made it one of the best-performing Toyota models for attracting new buyers and conquest sales.

In 2017, AYGO was amongst the top sellers of the A-segment with more than 85,000 units sold, and a segment share of 6.6%.

The new AYGO further strengthens the model’s unique DNA and stand-out positioning within the highly-competitive A-segment. Toyota’s designers and engineers have not only reinforced its youthful and distinctive image, but also made the powertrain more efficient and improved the car’s performance and handling characteristics to make it even more fun to drive.

 

Foreword by David Terai, AYGO Chief Engineer

“With my 14 years of experience in being a Chief Engineer for joint venture projects, I know the importance of sustaining modernity during a vehicle’s lifecycle. So when we started development of the second generation AYGO in 2012, I already had in mind the visual changes and innovations I wanted to pursue for this mid-lifecycle model change.

When we started the concept study in 2015, the first thing I did was explain to the new team –consisting of Toyota Motor Europe’s Styling and R&D divisions- my idea of a three-dimensional X design at the front to create more ‘liveliness’.

From the start of the development, it was clear that we had many big challenges on our hands, since the outgoing model was still very well thought of by A-segment customers thanks to its strong exterior design and fuel efficiency. But we also had to take into account the increased number of competitors which make the A-segment an even more challenging environment.

Based on this, we wanted the new model to look and feel like a new car, while focussing on three pillars to enhance AYGO’s DNA: re-evaluate the exterior design, make the car quieter and more fun to drive, and lower the total cost of ownership by making new AYGO even cheaper to run.

My message to the design team has always been: AYGO needs a strong presence in the European market, with a fun character and customisation inspired by Japanese Manga culture but executed in a way appreciated by European customers.

I wanted the front design to express more liveliness and agility. The new three-dimensional frontal graphic now gives the car a completely new look, but it remains unmistakably an AYGO. Through the adoption of unique front and rear LED signatures and new wheel designs we enhanced the exterior originality even further.

In the cabin we’ve upgraded the materials to bring more harmony and increase the feeling of quality. And we’ve also adopted a new multimedia unit featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.

Through significant improvements to the 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder engine –such as adding exhaust VVT and twin injectors- we are now able to offer A-segment customers the best combination of performance and best in class fuel efficiency, in-line with AYGO’s DNA of ‘fun and efficient’. Thanks to these changes I can confidently say that new AYGO is the most responsive car in its segment, while keeping its green credentials.

The team and I are very proud of what we have achieved. This is without doubt the best AYGO ever.”

 

A FRESH LOOK and UPGRADED INTERIOR FINISHES

• A more powerful, three-dimensional execution of the iconic ‘X’ frontal design

• New front and rear lamp clusters with unique LED light guide signatures

• New dedicated wheel designs for each grade

• Choice of eight body colours, including two new metallic paints

The new AYGO retains its iconic frontal ‘X’ signature, but it has matured from a two-dimensional graphic into a more powerful, three-dimensional architectural element.

The distinctive new frontal design incorporates redesigned Keen Look headlamp clusters, with integral Daytime Running Lights (DRL) further reinforcing AYGO’s striking looks at first sight.

The lower section frames the front grille, emphasising the AYGO’s stable stance and the agility inherent in a compact vehicle. While the under-lamp ornamentation –available in Black, Glossy Black or Silver- accentuates the ‘X’ signature and the vehicle’s width.

In profile, the more three-dimensional frontal form combines with newly designed outer lenses in the rear lamp clusters to strengthen the visual connection between the front and rear, giving the impression of forward movement and increased dynamism.

At the rear, the new LED light guides give the AYGO a sophisticated look and make the model instantly recognisable. The unique light signature creates the perception of a compact cabin above a wider lower bumper area, to emphasise the vehicle’s rear width and stability.

The new exterior styling is completed with a choice of eight body colours, two of which are new –Rich Blue Metallic and, exclusive to the x-cite grade, Magenta Splash Metallic. The addition of new 15” technical-look wheel caps and 15” alloys -with a design unique to each grade- further strengthens the premium looks of the new AYGO.

On board, upgraded combimeter instrument graphics feature a more three-dimensional effect and a new illumination colour. A more premium Quartz Grey and Piano Black colour scheme has been adopted, and new seat fabrics have been created for most of the grades.

Further grade-specific interior colour schemes and fabrics are fully described in the Grade Structure and Customisation chapter.

 

Interview with Elvio D’aprile, Manager at Toyota Motor Europe’s Styling division

The contrasting ‘X’ graphic at the front was AYGO’s key trade mark, why did you decide to move away from it?

The ‘X’ graphic is such a strong signature and an integral part of AYGO’s design that we absolutely needed to retain it. The main challenge for our team was to find a new and original way of visualising it while ensuring that it still expresses AYGO’s unique identity.

The new interpretation of the ‘X’ needed to be iconic and original. On the one hand it has to be visually strong because it determines the car’s character and identity; on the other hand it can’t be too busy either. It needs to be a long lasting design, fresh from day one until the end of the vehicle’s lifecycle.

On the outgoing model the ‘X’ is a contrasting graphic on a plain surface. We developed a new design by creating an ‘X’-shape which is much more three-dimensional. It’s a real shape now, not only a graphic anymore. This is the best way to achieve a new and stronger signature while retaining the iconic ‘X’-shape.

Through the adoption of new headlights with LED light guides, and by positioning coloured patches underneath them, the visual impact of the new X-shape is further enhanced. The new front look also helps to increase the vehicle’s road presence and improve its aerodynamics.

The frontal ‘X’ was an integral part of AYGO’s extensive customisation options. Does the removal of this feature mean that new AYGO is stepping away from this?

Not at all. We were very careful about offering customisation options because it’s one of the key elements of AYGO. However we’re now moving in a more subtle direction.

On the outgoing model, the ‘X’ was such a prominent piece of the front design that your attention was immediately drawn to it. However by separating the front bumper structure, new AYGO owners can now choose a different colour for the spoiler lip and the patches underneath the headlamps.

And even though those individual parts are smaller, together they still create a big visual impact.

Which other exterior changes have been implemented?

At the rear there was no need to make big changes since the current bumper design already had a kind of ‘X’ design in it.

We did increase the visual impact of the vehicle by introducing new rear lamp clusters. They are executed in red with a chrome element and feature LED light guides with a specific signature, which is unique in the A-segment.

The wheels are also a striking element for the visual impact of a car. So we took the opportunity of this mid-lifecycle update to redesign them. And we’re introducing a dedicated new wheel design for each grade, to emphasize their unique personalities.

The wheels are 15”, but through the spoke design and the contrast between the machined face surface and the black paint we created the visual effect of a bigger wheel size.

We’re also launching two new exterior colours: Rich Blue Metallic and Magenta Splash Metallic. This new Magenta Metallic is a really bold colour, but we feel it fits perfectly with AYGO’s unique and playful character.

Which changes did you make to the interior?

We re-evaluated the colours of the interior. The combimeter now features a new colour and a more three-dimensional ‘turbine’ design. This adds a touch of modernity and refinement to the driver’s binnacle.

We also upgraded the interior colours and trims. The vibrancy of the interior is further enhanced with the body colour-matching of the side register air vents. The result is a more harmonious interior with an enhanced feeling of quality and more customisation options.

 

MORE EFFICIENT and EVEN MORE FUN TO DRIVE

• More frugal, Euro 6.2 compliant 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder engine

• CO₂ emissions reduced by 5 g/km to ensure best-in-class efficiency

• Improved engine response and improved vehicle handling for greater driving enjoyment

• Better NVH performance for increased on-board comfort

Toyota’s award-winning, 998 cc, 3-cylinder, 12-valve, DOHC, Dual VVT-i engine is now Euro 6.2 compliant. The unit has been extensively revised, now combing an ideal balance of power and fuel consumption with enhanced torque delivery at lower engine rpm for an even better driving experience in urban traffic.

The cylinder head benefits from a new dual fuel injector system, enhancing combustion efficiency. The shape of the intake port has been changed to achieve optimum intake tumble flow. As a result, combustion efficiency is further enhanced, improving both fuel economy and exhaust gas performance.

The shape of the exhaust port has been changed to increase its size, decreasing pressure within the exhaust manifold. This not only contributes to enhanced torque delivery throughout the engine speed range, but also improves fuel economy.

A VVT mechanism has been added to the exhaust camshaft, improving fuel efficiency and exhaust gas performance. Furthermore, the optimisation of the valve spring characteristics and the addition of a diamond-like carbon coating to the valve lifter reduce friction to further enhance fuel economy.

Within the cylinder block, the shape of cooling passages between cylinder bores has been optimised to improve cooling efficiency. This achieves superior anti-knock performance whilst contributing to enhanced fuel economy and exhaust gas performance.

A foamed rubber-type water jacket spacer has been adopted to optimise cylinder bore heat distribution, reducing piston-generated friction and improving fuel economy.

The shape of the combustion chamber has been optimised, increasing the engine’s compression ratio from 11.5:1 to 11.8:1. And both piston and piston ring friction have been reduced through the resin coating of the reshaped piston skirt, and the addition of a diamond-like carbon coating to the piston ring top section.

An Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler system has been added, enhancing the cycle efficiency of the EGR system to further improve fuel economy. A dynamic damper has been added to the right-hand engine mount to improve Noise and Vibration (NV) performance.

Finally, an improved balance shaft has been adopted to reduce vibration at idling speed.

As a result of these comprehensive enhancements, the engine now develops 53 kW (72 DIN hp) at 6,000 rpm, and 93 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. New AYGO will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 13.8 seconds, and on to a top speed of 160 km/h.

New AYGO comes in both standard and Eco versions. The latter benefits from a longer 4th and 5th gear, low Rolling Resistance Coefficient (RRC) tyres, Toyota’s Stop & Start system and aerodynamic improvements.

The standard version achieves a fuel consumption of just 4.1 l/100 km and CO₂ emissions of only 93 g/km. The Eco version returns class-leading fuel economy figures of as low as 3.8 l/100 km and CO₂ emissions of only 86 g/km¹.

x-shift

The x-shift is available as an option on new AYGO. This automated manual transmission has a fully automatic shift mode and no clutch pedal, using computer control to synchronize engine, clutch and transaxle for quick and precise shifting.

Selecting E (Easy Mode), M (Manual) or R (Reverse) allows the car to ‘creep’ like a conventional automatic. In E mode, the system selects a suitable gear according to the accelerator pedal, vehicle speed and driving conditions.

New AYGO’s x-shift is equipped with the kick-down function standard to automatic transmissions. Moreover, it is possible to override the system temporarily by using the steering wheel-mounted paddles. Selecting M mode allows the driver to manually change gear via either the shift lever itself or with the paddle switches.

When equipped with x-shift, new AYGO returns fuel consumption of 4.2 l/100 km and generates CO₂ emissions of only 95 g/km.

Driving Dynamics

Complementing the improvements to engine performance and efficiency, the new AYGO’s suspension settings have been changed and the steering software updated, allowing the vehicle to react quickly and precisely to driver inputs for even greater agility and urban driving enjoyment.

Various elements of new AYGO’s proven MacPherson front and torsion beam rear suspension systems have been revised and fine-tuned to improve ride comfort with no detriment to handling agility and responsiveness.

The shock absorber damping force of both the front and rear suspension systems has been optimised to achieve superior handling ability and ride comfort, and a lower coil spring insulator has been added to the front suspension to further enhance ride comfort.

Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)

Added sealing and absorption materials to the dashboard, A-pillars, doors and rear deck have resulted in a marked reduction in NVH within the cabin across the full range of engine rpm.

The material used for the dash inner silencer has been optimised to enhance sound insulation and absorption. Its upper surface area has been enlarged and benefits from the addition of a caulking sponge.

The thickness of the front cowl louvre caulking sponge has been increased by 3 mm, and that of the air shutter and cowl separator by 2 mm, reducing engine noise and high speed wind noise.

The thickness of the front fender protector has been increased by 1.3 mm, reducing engine and road noise. A caulking sponge has been added to the fender garnish reducing the penetration of engine and wind noise through the gap between the fender panel and side member.

Labyrinth clips have been added to the door inner panels to reduce the entry of road noise through the door drainage holes. Hole plugs have been added to the door inner panel and front pillar inner panel to reduce both engine noise and wind noise when driving at high speeds.

Within the cabin, further noise and vibration suppression measures include the addition of felt and ethylene propylene rubber seals to the front pillar garnish, an increased area of felt within the rear door trim, and the addition of felt to the tailgate trim.

 

Interview with Kristof Muylle, Senior Project Manager at Toyota Motor Europe’s R&D centre

What were R&D’s main objectives for new AYGO?

Based on customer feedback, we identified three key areas which we wanted to focus on for this mid-lifecycle model change.

Firstly we wanted to ensure that AYGO maintains its position of best-in-class within the A-segment for fuel efficiency and CO₂. Secondly, we improved the model’s performance in the area of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH), to increase on-board comfort.

Our third area of focus was related to the vehicle’s dynamic abilities. The AYGO’s fun-to-drive factor is one of the model’s strong points, and we wanted to build on that even further.

How did you make new AYGO more efficient?

The 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder engine was extensively revised and we improved the combustion efficiency through the adoption of a new dual fuel injector system. The compression ratios have been increased and friction within the engine was reduced.

A new throttle body motor and ignition coil were adopted and, last but not least, we made changes to the cylinder head and block, the piston design and the EGR system.

By applying all these changes we were able to make new AYGO’s powertrain compliant with the latest Euro 6.2 regulations and reduce CO₂ emissions by 5 g/km across the entire model range.

This is a tremendous achievement for such a small engine that was already very efficient.

Which countermeasures did you take to improve AYGO’s NVH performance?

We wanted to reduce the level of noise coming into the cabin, and set about a comprehensive programme of revisions specifically focusing on four key areas around the car: the dashboard, the A-pillar, the doors and the rear deck.

By upgrading sound absorption material, adding insulation and the implementation of a whole raft of small optimisations, we have been able to reduce the sound level in the cabin at all road speeds and all engine revolutions.

This increases the on-board comfort at highway speeds and during city driving, which of course is the AYGO’s natural habitat.

How did you make new AYGO even more fun to drive?

We want the driver to feel confident with the steering feel and pedal operation at all times. Especially in a city environment, where you are faced with so many external factors, we aimed to reduce the burden of driving as much as possible. This allows the driver to feel more relaxed and to enjoy the driving much more.

By slightly lowering the engine’s maximum torque yet making it available at lower rpm, we were able to improve drivability and take-off performance. Pulling away in first and second gear is now easier, which is essential for a car that will be mainly used in city driving.

Also, the engine improvements which I mentioned earlier, together with an upgrade in the steering software and suspension revisions, help to provide a more refined driving experience.

The car’s sharper handling and effortless steering feel ensure that the driver always feels in full control of the vehicle. The fact that new AYGO is now even more nimble adds to its fun-to-drive factor.

 

REVISED GRADE STRUCTURE AND MORE CUSTOMISATION

• Each grade appeals to the tastes and needs of different target customers

• Two special editions to refresh the range on a regular basis

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto supported by new Display Audio with Smartphone Integration Powered by Pioneer

• Toyota Safety Sense available on all grades for increased levels of active safety

New AYGO’s grade structure has been developed to appeal to an even wider audience thanks to a special focus on the high end of the segment. Each grade features unique design elements, easily recognisable by the front bumper execution, dedicated alloy wheels and the interior finish.

From the entry grade x, to the mid grade x-play and the high grade x-clusiv, each grade has been tailored to appeal to the tastes and needs of different target customers.

x-play lies at the heart of the new AYGO grade strategy. It features several options which allow customers to tailor their car to their personal taste. Offering outstanding value, the x-play’s extensive standard equipment includes comfort features such as air-conditioning, steering wheel-mounted audio system control switches, a height adjustable driver’s seat, an adjustable speed limiter and the 7” Display Audio multimedia system.

The new high grade x-clusiv builds on the x-play standard specification with a distinctive bi-tone paint scheme in a choice of three colours, unique 15” alloy wheels with a twin-spoke design, seats with part-leather upholstery, automatic air-conditioning, Toyota Safety Sense and the new 7” Display Audio multimedia system which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In addition, two special edition models, x-cite and x-trend, will refresh the AYGO range on a regular basis.

x-cite is the most distinctive variant of the AYGO range, thanks to a unique Magenta exterior colour in a bi-tone finish, dedicated 15” all black alloys, Manhattan seat fabric with Magenta stitching, body coloured inserts for the air vents and gear-knob, and Piano Black instrument panel and gear lever surround.

Customers looking for a more dynamic execution of Toyota’s A-segment model will be drawn to x-trend. Its Black exterior finish is complemented by Black headlamp ornamentation, striking Cyan door mirrors, a unique set of sporting stickers, dedicated 10-spoke 15” alloys, part-leather upholstery and Cyan interior elements.

Multimedia

The entry Display Audio multimedia system uses a 7” full-colour touch screen fully integrated within the instrument panel, with a rear view camera fitted as standard.

The main menu has a clear, 5 icon structure, offering at-a-glance identification of all functions for an intuitive user experience.

An optional Navi Box may be linked to the multimedia system via a dedicated storage pocket within the glove box. It offers drivers intuitive access to fast and accurate, Pan-European route guidance.

A new Display Audio with Smartphone Integration Powered by Pioneer is fitted as standard on high grade x-clusiv models, and x-cite and x-trend special edition versions. It builds on all the features of the standard system with the addition of voice control and the support of both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Thanks to the system’s enhanced smartphone usability, phone, message, navigation and music apps are mirrored on the AYGO’s 7” touchscreen, while Apple Siri and Google Voice Command ensure easy and safe operability.

DAB is available as an option on both multimedia systems.

Rear View Monitoring System

The Rear View Monitoring System can assist the driver when parking or manoeuvring in tight spaces. It activates whenever reverse gear is selected, using a back camera to display an image of the area behind the car on the x-touch 7” full colour centre console screen.

Power-Operated Canvas Top

New AYGO may be fitted with a large, power-operated canvas top with a generous 785 mm x 730 mm opening; just one example of the additional equipment designed to suit a more demanding A-segment customer.

Smart Entry and Start System

The Smart Entry and Start System offers drivers the convenience of being able to lock and unlock the car, and start the engine via the dash mounted push switch, without the need for getting the key out of their pocket.

Powerful Projector Headlamps

Standard on all new AYGO models, the headlamp clusters incorporate Poly-Ellipsoid System (PES)-type halogen headlamps for a longer reach and broader illumination under both low and high beam conditions, and integral LED light guides which give the AYGO a unique light signature, making it recognisable from afar.

Toyota Safety Sense

Toyota Safety Sense groups together active safety technologies designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions across a wide range of traffic situations.

Between speeds of approximately 10 to 80 km/h, a Pre-Collision System (PCS)² detects other vehicles in front and reduces the risk of hitting them from behind. When there is a possibility of a collision it prompts the driver to brake with an audible and visual alert.

PCS also primes the brake system to deliver extra stopping force when the driver presses the brake pedal. If the driver fails to react in time, the system automatically applies the brakes, reducing speed by approximately 30 km/h³ or even bringing the car to a complete stop, in order to prevent the collision or mitigate the force of impact.

The Lane Departure Alert (LDA) system monitors lane markings and helps prevent accidents and head-on collisions caused by leaving lanes. If the vehicle starts to deviate from the lane without the indicators having been engaged, LDA warns the driver with an audible and visual alert.

^1. Based on Regulation EC 2017/1153 as amended EC 2017/1231

^2. Technical name: Pre-Crash System

^3. Results achieved during testing using a vehicle travelling at 30 km/h and a stationary vehicle. System operation depends on driving environment (incl. road and weather) and vehicle circumstances