Kentish Express Ashford & District
New and improved
A stalwart of the Toyota range, the firm’s refreshed Auris boasts cleaner engines, an exterior refresh and a much improved cabin environment. reports.
The Auris might be a familiar sight but if you look closely you’ll see that this generation has been given a light refresh. There have been some small and not so small improvements. As a result, the Auris is now powered by a selection of new or improved engines – petrol and diesel. The Auris might not command the same rock star status as the likes of Ford’s Focus or Volkswagen’s Golf, but it remains a key model in Toyota’s line-up. A solid performer, the car’s ace card – the hybrid variant – is a strong seller in both private and business circles. Cabin quality and refinement have been improved while the car’s slightly edgy styling goes a long way to challenge the perception that the Auris is a car only for silver-haired owners. There’s ample room and plenty of oddment storage, while in the back head and legroom is respectable. The boot is a reasonable size. While the new engines – 1.2 petrol and 1.6 diesel – are fine performers around town and on the motorway, the hybrid option remains the class act in the Auris line-up. A little cleaner and more economical, this petrol-electric set-up delivers a relaxing and refined performance, with the bonus of near-silent electric running in short bursts. There are cheaper cars in this class but the Auris is a tempting proposition. Toyota has upped the standard equipment and added extras such as a full-on nav and infotainment depending on trim grade and an auto brake function that helps mitigate collisions at low speed. The hybrid option is a no-brainer for business users and could save private buyers cash if they’re willing to do the sums.