Toyota Aygo X Hatchback

1.5 Hybrid Design 5dr CVT [2026]

Toyota launched the world’s first mass-produced hybrid back in 1997. It was called the Prius and has gone on to be a best-seller around the globe. Now the Japanese carmaker is drawing on all those years of hybrid technology know-how by introducing a hybrid powertrain to its fun, funky and compact crossover Aygo X model.

The Aygo X is significantly larger than the older, less SUV-shaped Aygo hatchback and also boasts elevated seating for a higher ride. While it is still seen as predominantly a city car, the larger dimensions and extra chunkiness make it far more confident when venturing further afield.

The Aygo X was previously sold with just a petrol engine, but for 2026, Toyota has recognised that increased pressure on emissions, combined with a drop-off in pure-petrol sales, meant a new approach was necessary. And that required exploring the hybrid route.

The hybrid powertrain is shared with the larger Yaris and Yaris Cross, although packaging was a slight issue as the Aygo has more compact dimensions. Rather than stacking the battery cells in the regular parallel format that requires a longer space, engineers cleverly designed a way to place them alongside one another beneath the rear seats across the width of the car. Problem solved.

So, we get the Aygo X Hybrid, which completely replaces the outgoing 1.0-litre petrol version. New Aygo X Hybrid is powered by a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, two electric motors (one powering the wheels and the other to start the engine and generate power to charge the batteries) and a compact 4.3amp/h battery. The result is a 44hp increase in power compared to the previous Aygo X, with combined fuel economy figures nearing the mid-70s.

With prices starting from £21,595, customers can choose from trims called Icon, Design, Excel and, for the first time a GR Sport version which takes its name from the multi-world championship-winning Toyota Gazoo Racing. This naming structure replaces the older Pure, Edge, Exclusive and JBL Special Edition models.

We opted for the high-end Excel model for a test drive in wet, windy and stormy conditions. And just in case you’re wondering, the ‘X’ in Aygo X is pronounced ‘Cross’.