Toyota’s small crossover just got a huge upgrade. The new Aygo X is the first full hybrid in its segment, and according to Toyota, it’s the cleanest of any non-plug-in car on the market. It’s also getting the GR Sport treatment for the first time. Here’s our first look.
Meet the new Toyota Aygo X Hybrid
Another popular Toyota model is getting electrified. The Aygo is Toyota’s smallest vehicle sold outside of Korea, and for the first time, it will be available as a hybrid.
Toyota unveiled the new Aygo X Hybrid on Monday, boasting it has “the lowest CO2 emissions of any non-plug-in car on the market.”
The Aygo X arrives as Toyota’s smallest full hybrid. Based on its new GA-B platform alongside other improvements, the new model is more powerful, efficient, and fun to dive than ever. Like the new Yaris and Yaris Cross, the mini crossover will feature a new hybrid powertrain, replacing the 1.0L gas engine from the outgoing model.
For the first time in a hybrid vehicle, Toyota is using two stacks of battery cells, fitted beneath the rear seats. The setup opens up more interior space.
Toyota claims that the improvements deliver “class-leading CO2 emissions of 86 g/km,” based on the latest WLTP data.
The hybrid model packs 116 DIN hp, 44 hp more than the outgoing version, which is good for a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) acceleration time of under 10 seconds.
The cleanest non-plug-in car?
With new noise-damping components, dash silencers, and an updated exhaust system, the new Aygo X is quieter and smoother to drive (or ride in).
Toyota gave the mini crossover a new look inside and out. A new hood, headlamps, and front grille design give it a more sporty, modern look, closer to its other updated models, such as the Crown.
If you’re looking for an even more sporty, fun-to-drive model, the hybrid is getting the GR Sport treatment. For the first time, the Aygo X will be available with a GR Sport variant. The new model draws inspiration from Toyota’s world championship-winning Gazoo Racing team, featuring an exclusive Mustard color scheme and a black hood design.
Other upgrades include a new “G-pattern” front grille and GR Sport alloy wheels. Inside, you’ll find GR badging and logos with a black and grey accent.
The shock absorbers and coil springs are fine-tuned for better handling and control. According to Toyota, the improvements are “specifically engineered for an exciting driving experience with no impact for ride comfort” on city streets.
Not only does the new model feature a more efficient powertrain, but Toyota has also cut emissions from every stage of vehicle use, including production and distribution.
Toyota estimates that the improvements reduce lifetime carbon emissions by 18% compared to the outgoing gasoline model. The “ultra-efficient hybrid powertrain” is the main factor, but new materials and other processes help reduce emissions.
The new Toyota Aygo X Hybrid is set to go on sale in Europe at the end of 2025. More details, including prices and final specs, will be revealed closer to launch. Check back soon. We’ll keep you updated with the latest.
Electrek’s Take
Toyota’s new Aygo X Hybrid may have “the lowest CO2 emissions of any non-plug-in car on the market,” but will it be enough?
Several fully electric ultra-compact vehicles are hitting the market that produce even fewer emissions, and are often cheaper to produce.
For example, BYD launched the Dolphin Surf last month, the European version of its top-selling EV, the Seagull, which is sold in China for under $10,000. Next year, BYD plans to launch its first kei car, or mini EV, in Japan, which could pose a huge threat to Japanese brands.
In fact, there’s already one mini EV, the “mibot” from startup KG Motors, that has sold out in Japan. The startup is already on pace to sell more electric cars in Japan than Toyota.
Toyota is launching a slate of new EVs in Europe already with the new bZ4X, C-HR+, and Urban Cruiser, but the company is standing by its commitment to all powertrains. Will it ultimately prove costly as BYD and other EV leaders continue to gain traction? We will find out shortly.
