- One three-cylinder engine, slightly more power
- Revised upholstery colours, still an ‘X” car
- New diode-lit tail lights tell the story
GENEVA, Switzerland – The next version of Toyota’s Aygo will be shown at the 2018 Geneva ajuto show on March with changes which, the automaker says, ”strengthen its stand-out character in a highly competitive market segment”.
It also claims to have a youthful and distinctive design ( sure does, just check the images! ) and improved performance and handling.
The now outgoing model arrived in South Africa in 2015, some time after its world 2014 launch, with a still-present stylised ‘X’ on its nose and two distinct style lines running back to the front windows.
The ‘X’ on the 2018 Aygo,Toyota says, has been transformed from a two-dimensional graphic into a more powerful, three-dimensional, body element.
‘STRONG PROFILE’
”The distinctive new look,” Toyota says, ”includes redesigned headlights / daytime running lights which give the cars an even more striking appearance.’
”The lower section of the ‘X’ frames the grille and communicates a stable stance and agile performance. Black, gloss black, or silver ornamentation beneath the lights makes the car look wider.”
The profile is said to make a strong visual connection between the car’s front and rear.
New rear diode light guides are said to give the new Aygo a sophisticated look ”and help make the car instantly recognisable”.
READ MORE Aygo features on Carman’s Corner
New colours and new wheel-rim designs – each for a specific model grade – will be available.
”The instrument cluster,” Toyota says, ‘has been upgraded with graphics that have a more three-dimensional look and a new illumination colour. Most grades have, internationally, new seat upholstery and a Quartz Grey and Piano Black have been introduced (SA colours and trim to be confirmed).
Motive power will come from an award-winning 998cc, three-cylinder, quad-valve DOHC engine revised for, Toyota says, ”an ideal balance of power and fuel efficiency with better torque delivery at lower engine speeds giving an even better driving experience in city traffic”. (More below image.)
Changes to the previous engine include a dual fuel-injector system, higher compression ratio, new low-friction components, a cooled exhaust-gas recirculation system, and an improved balance shaft for less vibration when idling.
Engine power is up by two kW to 53 at 6000rpm; maximum torque is 93Nm at 4400rpm,m 0-100km/h can take as little as 13.8sec, top speed is 160km/h.
LOCAL MODEL ADVICE WHEN IN SA
Sealing and sound absorption materials have been added to the facia, front door pillars, doors and rear deck. ”The result,” Toyota says, ”is a marked reduction in cabin noise and vibration.”
Aygo model grades and equipment features for the South African market will be announced nearer the car’s arrival later in 2018 so vehicles shown in the images might differ slightly to those for local delivery.
Carman's Corner 