Crossover future looming as Toyota reveals Aygo X Prologue

Just two weeks after first images of the replacement for the Aygo appeared online, Toyota has taken the covers off of the concept model reimagined as a crossover.

Fresh from committing to a segment that has been shrinking in recent years with the axing of certain models or the switch towards electrification, the Aygo X Prologue will continue to make use of a conventional petrol engine instead of being electrically powered once in production, and ride on the same GA-B platform as the Yaris XP150.

Likely to be toned down aesthetically, the Prologue nonetheless boasts the same silhouette as the sighted test mule, but with a distinct crossover stance in the form of higher ground clearance, gloss black wheel arch cladding and a faux rear skid plate.

Sporting a prominent wedge-like roof intendment and boomerang-esque headlights that extend the entire width of the front facia underneath the now bluff grille before cutting into the bonnet, the Prologue also features cameras integrated into the mirrors, an expansive lower air intake, flush rear door handles and oversized alloy wheels.

RELATED: Toyota commits to petrol power for next generation Aygo

The rear facia meanwhile is a modernised nod to that of the soon-to-be-outgoing Aygo in that it retains the vertical taillights and chunky rear bumper, as well as the integrated roof spoiler and trademark single-piece glass hatch.

Concept Toyota Aygo X Prologue rear.

Despite it being a certainty the wheels and cameras will be dropped for the production Aygo, the bi-tone body colour option is poised to go the other way with the same applying to the bicycle rack integrated into the rear skid plate.

The use of the GA-B platform will also filter through to the engine where the Aygo is expected to derive motivation from the Yaris’ normally aspirated 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine paired as standard to a five-speed manual gearbox or an optional CVT.

Production will continue to take place at Kolín plant in the Czech Republic, a facility now wholly owned by the Japanese marque after Stellantis announced its withdrawal from the so-called B Zero project partnership last year that has yielded the Aygo, Citroën C1 and Peugeot 108 since 2005.

In spite of Toyota not commenting on a launch date, the Aygo is anticipated to bow later this year before going on sale in 2022. Following the unveiling of the Agya last year though, don’t be surprised if a return to South Africa does not happen.

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