Toyota Aygo (2005 - 2014) 1.0 VVT-i 3d (2006/56) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I wanted an economical car with some fashionable styling from a very reliable manufacturer. It's "classless" in the best sense - which in reality means that loads of posh people buy it as a runabout.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They laugh, but they all like it. Macho car snobs can keep their big cars, bought on finance, with huge fuel costs, insurance, car tax, and servicing costs, all while their cars are depreciating wildly.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Plan to keep it for years even if I get another car, just as a convenient runabout. Might give it away or lend it to someone in the family just not to lose it. Wouldn't buy another one but only because I've had my fun in it and would want something different. Can't understand why anyone would buy an IQ for 2 grand more when they could have one of these with much more practicality.

What are you likely to buy next?

Different stage of life so maybe a Saab or an Alfa.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

August 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

7800. Probably not a fantastic deal, but came with metallic paint and air con.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

What was the dealer like?

Sound. Fair minded. Realised I just wanted him to beat another dealer in a less convenient location.

What's it like to drive?

Tiring on a long journey, great in town. You can chuck it about and it responds fairly well. The brakes are a bit spongy and I've had a couple of hairy moments but that's down to lack of concentration probably.

What's it like to park?

Ridiculously easy. It's tiny, and once you know it it feels like a part of you and you can park it in any little spot. Because it just drops from the back window you always know how much room you have when reversing, and you can see the end of the bonnet at the front.

Have you had any problems with the car?

No problems at all.

What's most practical about your car?

Turning circle is amazing, and because it's a small cute car you can take amazing liberties on the road and be let off by other drivers with a smile. Seriously, if I drove an Audi A3, Ford Focus, or 1series BMW I would get places a lot slower as I waited at junctions to be let out. Running costs are ridiculously low. Back seats fold down and give you decent boot space. The regular boot will hold an overnight bag, a couple of golf clubs or some shopping. Plenty of leg room in the front with the seats back.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The ipod socket is useful. Air con is an important extra as it heats up quickly on a sunny day.