Toyota Aygo vs Skoda Citigo

Things are hotting up in the closely fought city car sector, with a new crop of contenders aiming to become king of the urban jungle. The latest addition is the all-new Toyota Aygo, and this second generation of the tiny Japanese machine is trying to ditch its straight-laced style in favour of a fresh and funky image.

That means you get bold new looks, a host of customisation options and plenty of hi-tech kit that’s dripping with showroom appeal.

However, the newcomer hasn’t forgotten its roots, so it’s powered by a frugal 1.0-litre engine, features compact dimensions and promises penny-pinching running costs. We test the car in range-topping £11,395 x-pression guise.

Facing up to the Toyota in this hard-hitting street fight is our reigning city car champ, the Skoda Citigo. With its big car refinement and driving experience, family friendly practicality and top-notch quality, the Citigo still sets the standard in the small car class. So can the tiny Toyota topple the stunning Skoda?

• Toyota Aygo review

• Skoda Citigo review

Click on the links above to read each in-depth review, then read on for our verdict.

Head-to-head

Customisation

Personalisation options for the Aygo include the £395 OUTstand pack that features contrasting exterior trim inserts and the £245 OUTburst decal pack.

Used - available now

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Cash £21,500

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You can also add body colour finishes to the interior with the £165 INspire and INtense packages. On the Citigo, there are £180 Sport stripes for the bonnet and roof, £87 chrome kick plate finishers and a £217 roof spoiler. You can also spend £660 on 15-inch alloys.

Technology

Pairing your phone to the Toyota’s infotainment system is a piece of cake, and you can browse through your music library via the Bluetooth connection. If you have an Android mobile, Mirrorlink replicates your phone display on the touchscreen.

Running costs

Both cars emit less than 100g/km of CO2 and so qualify for a free tax disc, while each promises to average 50mpg fuel economy. The Aygo isn’t available with a service pack, but three trips to the dealer will cost £527 using Toyota’s fixed-price scheme, which is only £48 more than Skoda’s servicing deal.

Verdict

1st: Skoda Citigo

The remarkable Citigo’s winning streak continues. It’s not as eye-catching as the new Toyota, but it delivers big car quality, refinement and driving dynamics in a small package. It’s also surprisingly practical, incredibly cheap to run and comes well equipped as standard.

2nd: Toyota Aygo

Younger drivers will love the latest Aygo’s distinctive looks, personalisation options and smartphone-friendly touchscreen. But the driving experience lets it down and the car feels cheaper than its rival. Claustrophobic-feeling rear bench and small boot don’t help.

Figures