Toyota Aygo 2014 - 2021 guide

What's it like?

If you're in the market for a first car, then the Toyota Aygo Mk2 is a pretty safe choice. Its small dimensions mean it's easy to drive, plus the second-generation model got a significant styling and spec upgrade over the original Aygo, but the running gear was carried over largely intact, which should put some faith in the car's reliability.

At this level, there are plenty of alternative options available. Similar to the Aygo are the second-generation Citroen C1 and the Peugeot 108, which use identical running gear and were even built in the same factory. Elsewhere, the main rivals are the SEAT Mii and Skoda Citigo, or the slightly pricier Volkswagen Up!, all of which use the same technology. Elsewhere, small cars such as the Opel Karl, Renault Twingo, Ford Ka+, Fiat Panda and entry-level versions of the Fiat 500 are available, while the Dacia Sandero is a budget supermini for a similar price. Other options for first-time drivers include older superminis, but these won't have the safety equipment or reliability that the Aygo should be able to deliver.

Which model to go for?

All versions of the Toyota Aygo Mk2 feature a 1.0-litre three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine carried over from the Mk1. It produced a modest 69hp from 2014-2019, then it was boosted to 72hp from 2019-2022. This helped the Aygo accelerate from 0-100km/h in 14.1 seconds, a whole tenth of a second faster than the older model.

All Aygos are front-wheel drive, while an automatic gearbox was available, but is rare, being outnumbered by around ten to one by the manuals. That's for the best, because we'd only recommend the auto if you need a self-shifter; it's slower and less economical than the manual version. Another rarity is a three-door body - the vast majority of Aygos are five-doors, and this is the essential configuration to get if you're going to use the back seats regularly.

For the Aygo Mk2, Toyota introduced X-themed trim levels to match the 'X' design of the Aygo's front end. These progressed through x, x-play, x-pression, x-cite, x-pure and x-clusiv, with additional equipment such as alloy wheels and even navigation added as you progressed through the range. Special editions were also offered that came with unique colours and extra niceties, while a version with an opening canvas roof was also offered. All cars get the same safety features, with twin front airbags, side airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners. From 2017 on higher-spec cars could be upgraded with the Safety Sense Pack, which adds city braking and lane assist.

Does anything go wrong?

Since the Aygo Mk2 is essentially an evolution of the first generation, the powertrain should have most of its issues ironed out. The three-cylinder engine was a pretty hi-tech unit when it was first launched, and there haven't been reports of issues with it. Since the Aygo will be a popular choice with new drivers, it's probably a good idea to check any used purchase for signs of a slipping clutch, a high biting point and generally poor gear selection. Also check for kerbed wheels, while bumper scrapes and dings could also be signs of a hard life.

There have only been four recalls for the Aygo Mk2: one for a faulty dipped beam, one related to the seatbelts and two for steering system issues.