Name: Toyota Auris Review
Item: Toyota Auris
Author: Gumtree.com

First launched back in 2006, the Auris is a low-budget compact hatchback, and it was initially an offshoot of Toyota’s popular Corolla model. In most regions of the world, the Japanese manufacturer eventually switched back to the name Corolla – the model was rebadged as such in the UK from 2019 on. It’s a car that’s built for practicality above all else, and its roomy interior is ideal for an average family’s everyday outings. It’s not bad looking either, and the Hybrid version will allow buyers to make a more eco-friendly choice without breaking the bank.

Find out more on the Toyota Auris model page.

What we think about the Toyota Auris

The Auris is an affordable compact car that’s a good choice for families or new buyers.

Pros

Cheap to buy

Decent looks

Spacious cabin

Safe and reliable

Cons

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Slow engines

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Bland interior design

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Limited infotainment options

The Toyota Auris is a five-door compact car with a hatchback body style. The most recent model still under the name ‘Auris’ is from 2018, and its entry-level engine is a 1.3-litre petrol unit that provides up to 58 mpg. Available trims are the Business, Design, Icon, and Excel. There were also hybrid models available from 2012-2018, which were updated along with the name change to ‘Corolla’ from 2018 on.

Driving performance of the Toyota Auris

Our Driving Rating6 / 10

The Auris should be fine to take out on city roads, but it can be a boring driving experience if you’re using it often. The steering is much too light and offers little engagement, the braking is quite sharp, and you’ll need to take it easy as there’s quite a lot of body roll when cornering. The suspension is firmer than many rivals in its class, which means that it’s not as comfortable as you might expect on tougher terrain. If you’re just needing to run errands and pop out on shorter trips, it’ll get the job done.

Safety and reliability of the Toyota Auris

Our Safety Rating8 / 10

The Toyota Auris was last crash tested by Euro NCAP back in 2013, when it received the full five-star rating from the safety body. It scored an impressive 91% for how well it protected adult passengers, and 84% for the safety of child passengers. Seven airbags and stability assistance control come as standard, and you can also upgrade to get the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) pack, which offers adaptive cruise control and emergency brake assist.

Under the bonnet of the Toyota Auris

Our Engine Rating6 / 10

The Toyota Auris isn’t a car that’s likely to get your heart racing, regardless of which trim you opt for. Its entry-level 1.3-litre petrol is particularly sluggish, so it’s worth paying extra for the turbocharged 1.2-litre unit, which can get you to 62 mph from standing in just over 10 seconds. There’s a turbo diesel engine with a 1.6-litre capacity, but if you’re more eco-conscious, you’re likely to opt for the newer hybrid Auris. It pairs its battery-powered motor with a four-cylinder, 1.8-litre petrol engine, producing 98 bhp for 0-62 times just below 11 seconds.

What you'll find in the Toyota Auris

Our Design Rating7 / 10

As the Auris evolved over the years, it picked up a few aesthetic upgrades, though Toyota has rarely changed its basic body shape. The later models have a pleasingly futuristic feel, offering a good balance between sharp angles and soft, streamlined curves. The wide frontend has some presence, with its lower grille being a subtly stylish touch. That said, it’s far from the most eye-catching vehicle on the road, even when compared to other compact hatchbacks.

Comfort and interiors in the Toyota Auris

Our Comfort Rating6 / 10

Inside the cabin of the Toyota Auris, you and the family will stay comfortable enough for even longer journeys. There’s more than enough space for five people, and you’ll love the sizeable 350-litre boot. However, you might find yourself getting a little bored with its relatively bland design. Nothing in the interior really stands out, and the layout is also a little messy. But the materials are of a fairly good quality – expect soft-touch plastics and decent leather on the seats.

What features you'll find in the Toyota Auris

Our Features Rating7 / 10

The Auris has an infotainment system that’s accessible via a seven-inch touchscreen. It’s quite a basic setup, with low-res graphics that don’t compete with most modern alternatives – although the controls are responsive and easy to use. Infotainment isn’t available at all on the entry-level versions, and satnav and rear electric windows are also available only on higher trims. You can upgrade to the top-level variation to get 17-inch alloys, as well as sporty seats and tinted rear windows.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Toyota Auris

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

The entry-level petrol engine on the Auris can provide just over 50 mpg. That’s not bad at all, but you’d be advised to try out the turbocharged 1.2-litre unit, which offers just under 60 mpg. The diesel has reported figures of up to 68 mpg, which is reasonably impressive. If fuel economy is a priority, the hybrid is the obvious choice. It’s capable of achieving up to 78.5 miles on a gallon of petrol and is much more efficient in city traffic, where it can benefit from frequent starting and stopping. Plus, its CO2 emissions are around only 82 g/km.

Running costs of the Toyota Auris

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

The hybrid Auris’s good fuel economy means that you can make some savings on fuel costs, but it still lags behind many modern hybrid units. Low carbon emissions also offer lower long-term road tax costs if you use the car as part of a fleet. Whichever version you opt for, the Auris should be quite a cheap car to insure, and maintenance costs will be relatively low. Plus, Toyota offers a three-year manufacturer’s warranty as standard.

Our verdict of the Toyota Auris

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

Safe and spacious with some subtle style, check out the Toyota Auris if you're on a budget and you need a compact, convenient city runabout.

Toyota Auris Review