TOYOTA AYGO

Just when we thought the Yaris was the definitive small Toyota, the Japanese company brought us the Aygo. Cheeky, smart and keenly priced, 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 was revised for the 2009 model year with larger bumpers to give more curviness to the front end and visually lower the car. The 1.0-litre engine was also made fractionally more economical and efforts were made to improve refinement with better sound-proofing. 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, 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 Aygo is a city car 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. 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 effort out of 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 Toyota Aygo shows just how far they've come and makes a very convincing case for itself