This week I attended the launch of the updated Toyota Auris which has been freshened-up and is looking better than ever before. Exterior and interior updates should make the C-Segment a slightly more interesting space in terms of competition.
Changes outside have been slight but significant. The front dons newly-shaped headlamps and a new lower grille, both of which give the Auris a stronger and sportier stance than the outgoing model. The rear has been altered too. The back now holds a redesigned lower bumper with new reflector lamps running horizontally instead of vertically. This area also sees fresher lights which house a new LED light guide.
The exterior looks closer to the ground and the reason for this is the new grille below the lights to the front and the lower bumper to the back. It looks better than before, and the wings surrounding the Toyota badge on the nose is a very nice touch – it shows more pride from the manufacturer.
Inside is delivered in a much-improved way that impresses. In here Toyota utilises their new “Touch 2” infotainment system. This intuitive technology is presented through a very easy-to-use 7-inch touch screen. Other changes include; a better laid-out instrument panel, updated air conditioning switches, and new-look air vents. The way the dash floats has also improved space for front seat passengers.
There will be five different engines available to the Irish market. The petrol engines include a 1.33 Dual VVT-i offering 99bhp, and a new 1.2T (Turbo) which offers 116bhp. The 1.33 engine has been around before, and Toyota Ireland are going to keep it on the market for the time being to gauge the reaction of customers to the much-more exciting 1.2T engine.
In terms of diesel you will find a 1.4 D-4D (90bhp), a 1.6 D-4D (112bhp), and as should be expected from Toyota, a 1.8 hybrid system which offers 136bhp.
Of all of the engines I tested I found the 1.2T to be most enjoyable. It’s smoother and quicker than the 1.33 and it’s more fun too. It offers 0-100km/h in 10.1 seconds as well as an “on-paper” fuel consumption of 4.7l/100km (combined).
The hybrid will be a popular choice for many in the Irish market and Toyota predicts that it will make up 54% of Auris sales in Europe. Toyota’s hybrid technology is very good, but I felt that the gearbox held onto lower gears for too long.
The BMW-built 1.6 diesel engine is new to the Auris line-up. It feels nice to drive, but after stepping from the 1.2T into it, I have no doubts as to which engine I prefer. The 1.2 petrol engine is a great move by Toyota.
Other improvements to the Auris includes better suspensions, improved sound insulation (by using more silicon and sealing around the doors, etc.), and more responsive steering. The steering now offers more feedback at slightly higher speeds.
Four different grades will be available, Terra, Aura, Luna and Sol. Prices will stretch between €20,750 and €27,200. For hybrid fans out there you might be pleased to hear that the manufacturer is making the prices more affordable than before. Prices for the Auris hybrid stretch between €24,990 and €28,190. Extra options are also available from Toyota, these include; Toyota Safety sense for €560, SIPA for €560 and Skyview for €795. The small price gap between the four grades should make it easier for Toyota to up-sell to potential customers.
Undoubtedly this update will do well for Auris sales in Ireland and in Europe. It’s a lot more exciting than the outgoing model, and it’s reasonably priced. The question now is if these changes will put any dents into the excelling sales of the Ford Focus and the Volkswagen Golf.
