Buying a used Toyota Aygo

The Aygo, Toyota’s super mini city car, first popped up in the European market in 2005. Related and built in the same way as the Citroën C1 and Peugeot 107, the name “I go” is all about the personal freedom a car gives you. Popular with anyone looking for a dinky motor that’s easy to manoeuvre, park and run around town in, in 2021 production stopped and it was replaced by the Aygo X – a compact crossover. If you’re on the lookout for a used Aygo or nearly new Aygo X, here’s our guide on what’s available, which you should pick and what look out for when buying one.

What models are available?

Aygo (2005-2021)

Compact hatchback, city car or supermini, the Toyota Aygo is a small but stylish vehicle. It’s affordable and lightweight but still has bags of personality, technology and safety features and is available in three petrol or diesel engine types:

• 1.0L 1KR-FE I3 Petrol (2005-2018)
• 1.0L 1KR-B52 I3 Petrol (2019-2021)
• 1.4L DV4-TD I4 Diesel (2005-2014)

The Aygo has always had a youthful edge and been marketed at younger drivers thanks to its striking looks and customisability. Some of the trim levels included:

• Aygo X: The entry level model.
• Aygo X-play: The same features as the Aygo x plus air con, Bluetooth and steering wheel controls
• Aygo X-pression: 15” silver alloys, partially leather seats, 7” multimedia system, DAB+ radio, front fog lights and a reversing camera.
• Aygo X-cite: 15” Gloss Black alloys and navigation.
• Aygo X-clusiv: 15” machined alloys, climate control AC, smart entry and start
• Aygo X-pure: Pure White with silver trim and back bumper, white machined alloys and rear seat privacy glass.

Aygo X (2021-present)

The new Aygo X (pronounced Aygo Cross) still looks distinctively Aygo with contrasting bodywork and pop-out rear windows. However, now it has the typical crossover elevated seating and a larger windscreen for better visibility plus bigger alloys and wheel arches. Like the Aygo, the standard model still comes with plenty of technology and safety features and comes in just one engines type with two transmission options:

• 1.0L Petrol: Available as a five door, front-wheel drive five-speed manual or automatic.

The new model has five trim levels:

• Aygo X Pure: 17” alloy wheels, 7” Toyota Touch multimedia system, reversing camera, adaptive cruise control, steering and lane assist, driver attention alert plus cyclist and pedestrian detection.
• Aygo X Edge: Differently to the Pure it has 18” bi-tone alloy wheels, 8” multimedia system, front fog lights, auto wipers and a Gloss Black upper front grille.
• Aygo X Exclusive: 9” multimedia system, wireless phone charging, front and rear parking sensors, smart entry, button start, LED projector headlines and emergency steering assist.
• Aygo X Limited Edition: 18” Matt Black alloy wheels, a unique (and iconic to Aygo) canvas roof plus heated driver and passenger seats.

Which Toyota Aygo should you choose?

The original Aygo (or it’s Citroën and Peugeot counterparts) is perfect if you aren’t fussed about power or boot space as it will comfortably get you, and up to three passengers, from A to B. It’s ideal for town or city living as it doesn’t perform so well on the motorway or for longer trips. When a higher up driving experience, more room and the latest technology is key, opt for the Aygo X. As this model was only released in 2021, there won’t be as many on the used market yet but keep your eyes peeled over the next months and years.

What should you look out for in a used Toyota Aygo?

Toyota are an extremely reliable manufacturer that are famous for their long-lasting cars. However, there are a few common faults with the Aygo, some recalls in the early days but just two minor ones in the last five years.

• Lights: In 2020, there was a fault where some Aygo vehicles couldn’t switch between high and low beam. Check the lights on any used car before you test drive.
• Seat belts: Also in 2020, there was an issue where the central rear seat belt didn’t have the correct stitching. This fault will be hard to spot and likely won’t cause issues but make sure seat belts are functioning and not suffering from wear and tear.
• Boot: Check the boot thoroughly for visible signs of damp and smells. Many Aygo owners have found water leaks into the boot due to poor weather seals or through the rear lights.
• Clutch: Look for a high biting point or any signs of the engine feeling like it’s losing power on a test drive as some Aygo clutches have failed sooner than they should.

SPOTiCAR part exchange programme

If you’re looking to part exchange your Toyota Aygo or another vehicle, use our handy online tool to get an instant and free estimate. If the estimation sounds good to you you can find your closest retailer, book an appointment and speak to our experts about the next steps. 

They will also talk you through any finance options you may require for your Toyota Aygo.