Toyota Auris review
By Motor Match • 18/07/2023
Let's take a further look into one of Toyota's most popular used car the Toyota Auris.
What is it?
Toyota’s Corolla is an automotive legend and is the most popular car ever sold around the world.
While the Corolla name had always been used in the UK, in 2006 the Japanese firm changed the name to the Auris, and called it that untill 2019 when it reverted back once again to the Corolla.
The Auris was made in the UK, and was a popular choice owing to its reliability and good build quality, but can it compete as a used choice next to rivals like the Ford Focus?
What’s it like to drive?
Behind the wheel, the Auris is a completely competent car to drive, though not the one that leads the way in this class.
That said, changes made as part of this later Auris update did improve things. Comfort was enhanced thanks to a revised suspension setup. Refinement was also bolstered, while the great range of engines means there’s something to suit all.
How does it look?
The second-generation Auris was a big improvement on the earlier, bubble-shaped model, with sharper lines helping to give it a lot more presence.
This later 2015 model really helped to improve things further, with its sharper lights at the front and rear and new grille helping the Auris to look more modern. In fact, while it might not be the most exciting design in the world, its styling has aged well.
What’s new?
Here we’re focusing on the second-generation Auris, introduced in 2012, and in particular, the facelifted version, which was sold between 2015 and 2019.
This update gave the Auris a fresher face thanks to redesigned lights and a new grille. Inside, it featured a redesigned dashboard, as well as a new touchscreen. The engine choice also had a rejig, which we’ll come on to.
What’s under the bonnet?
For this 2015 update, Toyota introduced a pair of new engines – kicking off with a 114bhp 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that allowed for a 0-60mph time of just under seconds. A new 110bhp 1.6-litre diesel was also available, replacing the old 2.0-litre unit, and enabling the Auris to get from 0-60mph in 10.3 seconds.
The main highlight, though, is the 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain. Toyota was and remains a leader when it comes to hybrids, and this 134bhp model offers a great balance of performance and efficiency - Toyota claimed as much as 80mpg.
What’s the spec like?
Toyota offered the Auris in a range of versions, though even basic Active models feature LED running lights, automatic air conditioning and Bluetooth. The Icon trim brings a reversing camera, a seven-inch touchscreen, 16-inch alloy wheels and an impressive array of driver assists.
Above this, the Business Edition features satellite navigation, cruise control and heated seats, while the Design trim comes with Alcantara sports seats and stylish 17-inch alloy wheels.
At the top of the line-up, the Excel comes with automatic LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors and keyless entry.
What’s it like inside?
The Auris’ interior is another classic example of being very functional but not massively exciting. Typical of a Japanese car of this era, the quality is excellent, with a feeling that this Toyota was built to survive decades of use. It’s by no means premium, and a Volkswagen Golf of this era, has a much better interior, but it’s functional and easy to navigate.
In terms of space, the Auris offers decent practicality for a car of this size. Rear seat space is helped by the lack of a transmission tunnel, while the boot measures 360 litres, which is average for a car of this type. You can choose the more practical Touring Sports estate model instead, though.
Verdict
The Toyota Auris is not a car that will especially excite, but if you want something comfortable and dependable, it’s a very attractive compact family car.
Coming with generous equipment levels, a broad range of engines – including a hybrid – and a practical interior, it’s certainly worth considering as a used option.
You may also like…