Toyota Aygo
Sourcing new and used parts.
Size obviously matters for Aygo buyers, but when Toyota joined ranks with Peugeot and Citroën to launch its new city car in 2005, its diminutive proportions weren’t its only asset. The firm suspension and nippy 68bhp three-cylinder 1.0-litre VVT-I engine made it fun to drive, it could do 65mpg on a run, and it also qualified for free road tax. Available as both a three- and five-door, a 1.4 HDI turbodiesel was added in January 2006, but this was sluggish and barely more economical than the petrol model. It also incurred road tax of £20, so it didn’t sell well. There was also a MMT (Multimode Manual Transmission) auto, but this was also disliked and is therefore rare today.
In 2012, the Aygo received a front end makeover, as well as an improved interior with extra equipment. There was another revision in August 2013 before it was replaced by the Mk2 in 2014.
Reliability of this Czech-made miniature is good overall, but during its nine-year lifespan it was subject to three recalls. The first was to resolve a welldocumented sticking accelerator pedal that affected all cars built to the end of August 2009. Another recall concerning the rear axle was issued in 2013 for cars made in July and August that year, followed by one in 2015 regarding faulty front shock absorbers. Chances are the necessary work will have already been done, but it’s worth checking.
Regarding price, the Aygo was cheap new and is even more affordable now, with the cheapest we’ve seen advertised at just £1000. The only tiny question mark hanging over what’s otherwise considered a brilliant little car regards build quality, because despite scooping numerous accolades in reliability surveys, early examples are prone to premature clutch failure, water leaks and the occasional electrical gremlin. As far as parts prices go, Toyota remains competitive, but as always it pays to shop around for the best deals.