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Hatchback

Toyota is a company undergoing a quiet revolution, as it works hard to replace its sensible but somewhat bland reputation with one for being a bit more daring, in areas such as the styling of its cars and its enthusiastic leadership of cutting-edge technology, such as hybrid systems.

That process seems to be working for buyers, with the hugely popular and striking-looking C-HR SUV in particular attracting a great deal of interest. The latest version of the hybrid Prius is also rated highly by What Car?; it’s the first Prius to go on sale that our testers have felt can truly compete all round with existing petrol or diesel rivals.

However, it’s worth noting that this period of transition is also a work in progress, and that many of the firm’s cars are still rated as being no more than average among class rivals by our testers.

TOYOTA

AYGO

A great little car to buy and own

Used Toyota Aygo Hatchback 2005 - 2014

It might cost a little more to buy than similar-sized cars of the same age, because the Aygo's funky looks and desirability mean its resale values remain strong.

Running costs are where the big savings are made. Both engines carry a group 1 insurance rating, so premiums will be low.

Fuel economy is excellent, too. The petrol returns an average of 61.4mpg, and the diesel is even better - with an average of 68.9mpg. Servicing will also cost you less than it will for most other city cars.

The Toyota generally performs well in reliability and satisfaction surveys, so there shouldn't be many big repair bills.

Both three and five-door versions are available, but the latter has proved more popular with used buyers. Originally, the Aygo was available with only a 67bhp, 1.0-litre engine, but a 54bhp 1.4-litre diesel was introduced at the beginning of 2006. However, there's was little demand for the new engine and it was dropped from the range in June 2007. As a result they're hard to come by on the used market.

The entry-level Aygo is sparsely equipped, but does include a CD player and two airbags as standard. The Aygo+ model gets ISOFIX child seat fittings, electric front windows, two more airbags, remote central locking and an upgraded stereo. The Sport edition has alloy wheels, but was discontinued in May 2007.

New Black and Blue editions replaced the sport, and included unique paint and alloy wheel options, and could be ordered with extras such as a Bluetooth mobile phone system. The optional semi-automatic gearbox is easy enough to live with once you get used to it.

The Aygo underwent a subtle face-lift in early 2009, with a new front bumper and grille, and revised rear lights.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Spacious enough for four adults to sit comfortably</li> <li>Logically laid-out interior that doesn’t</li> <li>feel too cheap</li> <li>Mature driving manners </li> <li>Decent-sized boot</li> <li>Competitive buying and running costs</li></ul>

Small cars, or superminis as they’re also known, used to be bought almost exclusively as first cars or by people with no children – but the likes of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/fiesta/hatchback/review/n106">Ford Fiesta</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/seat/ibiza/hatchback/review/n17359">Seat Ibiza</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/polo/hatchback/review/n83">Volkswagen Polo</a> have grown to the point where they can be considered all-round family transport, albeit with the odd compromise.

Small

The Aygo continues Toyotas reputation for reliable cars, but there are a small number of common faults.

Some cars become reluctant to start and dealers can't always find the reason. Extremely cold weather brings the problem on, and changing the starter motor can help, but doesn't always cure the problem.

The clutch can also fail earlier than expected, due to corrosion. A recall to solve the problem fits modified parts, and the rear brakes can need replacing early, too.

Water can leak into the car's boot, due to poorly fitted weather seals, and the same problem befalls the front footwell due to a faulty vent. Look for damp patches or excess condensation. The boot lock can also fail, through wear and tear.

The Aygo was recalled in early 2010 due to sticking accelerator pedals, as part of a global issue with Toyota cars.

The Toyota Aygo is relatively cheap to buy, very cheap to insure and has enough style to appeal to the iPod generation.

The Aygo drives and handles reasonably well, as long as you don't push it too hard when cornering. The ride is firm, but it shouldn't upset occupants too much.

Toyota's tiny Aygo is definitely at its best in the city, where its compact dimensions and perky engines make it ideal for zipping through crowded streets. However, replacing city streets with faster A roads and motorways will see a significant drop in refinement.

It isn't the most practical car, either. The boot is minuscule and awkward to load, and the rear seats are short on both head- and legroom.

Used Toyota Aygo Hatchback 2005 - 2014 reliability

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Used Toyota Aygo Hatchback 2005 - 2014 review

The Aygo continues Toyotas reputation for reliable cars, but there are a small number of common faults.,Some cars become reluctant to start and dealers can't always find the reason. Extremely cold weather brings the problem on, and changing the starter motor can help, but doesn't always cure the problem.,The clutch can also fail earlier than expected, due to corrosion. A recall to solve the problem fits modified parts, and the rear brakes can need replacing early, too.Water can leak into the car's boot, due to poorly fitted weather seals, and the same problem befalls the front footwell due to a faulty vent. Look for damp patches or excess condensation. The boot lock can also fail, through wear and tear.The Aygo was recalled in early 2010 due to sticking accelerator pedals, as part of a global issue with Toyota cars.

What to look for when buying a Toyota Aygo 2005 - 2014, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability.

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Used Toyota Aygo Hatchback 2005 - 2014 reliability

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