Toyota Auris

     Toyota Auris is popular in many European countries

 Toyota Auris – Toyota’s Global Compact Hatchback

The Toyota Auris is a compact hatchback produced by Toyota from 2006 to 2018, designed as a practical and dependable vehicle for everyday use. It took over from the Corolla hatchback in several markets and was later succeeded by the Toyota Corolla Hatchback (2019‑present). Primarily sold in Europe, Japan, and some Asian regions, the Auris emphasized efficiency, comfort, and affordability.

First Generation (E150; 2006–2012)

• Platform: Shared with the E150 Corolla.

• Design: Conservative, rounded styling to appeal to mainstream buyers.

• Engines:

  • Petrol: 1.3L, 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.8L

  • Diesel (Europe): 1.4L D‑4D, 2.0L D‑4D, 2.2L D‑CAT

  • Hybrid (from 2010): 1.8L VVT‑i combined with electric motor – same system as the Toyota Prius.

• Transmissions: 5/6‑speed manual, 4‑speed automatic, and CVT for hybrids.

• Interior: Practical layout with high driving position and center gear lever.

• Safety: Earned a 5‑star Euro NCAP rating; dual front, side, and curtain airbags were standard.

• Trim levels (varied by market): Base, mid‑range (T2/T3/T4 in the UK), high‑spec (T‑Spirit in the UK).

• Highlight: Launch of the Auris Hybrid, one of Europe’s earliest compact hybrid hatchbacks, achieving around 70 mpg (UK).

Second Generation (E180; 2012–2018)

• Platform: Built on a lighter, more rigid MC platform to enhance handling and ride quality.

• Design: Sharper, sportier appearance with a lower profile and angular headlights.

• Engines:

  • Petrol: 1.33L, 1.6L, 1.8L Valvematic

  • Diesel (Europe): 1.4L D‑4D

  • Hybrid: 1.8L Hybrid Synergy Drive (shared with Prius) paired with e‑CVT.

• Transmissions: Standard 6‑speed manual for petrol/diesel trims; e‑CVT for hybrids.

• Interior: Improved materials, better ergonomics, and additional tech.

• Technology:

  • Toyota Touch 2 infotainment with 6.1‑inch screen (on newer models).

  • Options for navigation, DAB radio, Bluetooth, and reversing camera.

  • Toyota Safety Sense (introduced in 2015) – included pre‑collision assist, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.

• Trim levels (Europe):

  • Active (entry‑level)

  • Icon (mid‑spec with alloy wheels and enhanced infotainment)

  • Design (sportier trim)

  • Excel (top‑spec with leather seats and advanced safety features)

• Fuel efficiency:

  • Petrol ~40–50 mpg (UK)

  • Diesel ~60 mpg (UK)

  • Hybrid ~70 mpg (UK) with low CO₂ emissions, ideal for city driving.

Key Strengths of the Toyota Auris

• Renowned reliability – Toyota engineering means minimal issues and low upkeep.

• Hybrid versions – cost‑effective for urban and mixed driving, with tax advantages in Europe.

• Comfortable drive – suspension tuned for daily comfort rather than sportiness.

• Practical 5‑door layout – offers good boot capacity (~350–360 L).

• Strong safety credentials – high crash test ratings with advanced driver aids in later models.

Why Toyota Discontinued the Auris

In 2018, Toyota phased out the Auris name, renaming its next‑generation hatchback as the Toyota Corolla Hatchback to create a unified global lineup under the well‑known Corolla badge.

Summary

• Production: 2006 – 2018

• Body style: 5‑door hatchback (wagon version, Auris Touring Sports, in some regions)

• Engine options: 1.3L–1.8L petrol, 1.4L–2.2L diesel, 1.8L hybrid

• Transmission: Manual, automatic, e‑CVT

• Successor: Toyota Corolla Hatchback (2019‑present)

The Toyota Auris is recognized for its efficiency, dependability, and affordability, particularly in hybrid form. While it isn’t performance‑oriented, it’s a practical choice for drivers valuing low running costs, fuel economy, and reliability over sporty driving dynamics.