Away from all the Geneva International Motor Show 2018’s glitzy supercars and radical concepts, commentators are in agreement that one of the key ‘real life’ cars unveiled was the next generation Toyota Auris. It’s a massively important model for Toyota as a company, firstly because it will no longer offer diesel engines on any new or facelifted models, and secondly because the decision has been made to produce the new Auris in Britain at Toyota’s Burlaston plant near Derby. So, what’s been upgraded for the forthcoming third generation Auris?
Auris’ external appeal has been cranked up considerably
For the last several years, Toyota has typically been regarded as producing either relatively discrete or downright unusual-looking models, with the current second generation Auris therefore sitting in the aesthetic middle-ground between the Avensis and C-HR. The forthcoming third generation Auris is the most visually exciting yet, things getting off to a great start with a sharp and sporty front end inspired by a catamaran, while the sculpted bonnet and aggressive mesh grille are framed by slimline LED headlights. Longer and sleeker than its predecessor, the new Auris has a planted and agile stance and its dynamic lines flow upwards towards a now much more curvaceous rear, complete with a standard roof spoiler and contemporary light clusters that echo those at the front.
More emphasis on driver engagement
Although excellent hatchbacks and estates in many other aspects, previous Auris iterations haven’t been known for their sporty handling, but Toyota has gone to great lengths to make the new third generation version for late 2018/early 2019 more engaging to drive.
A lot of this is made possible by Toyota New Global Architecture, a platform on which it will build all future vehicles and which will revolutionise the firm’s approach to car production. In the specific case of the Auris it will mean a lower centre of gravity by 20mm, high-strength steel translating into a more rigid body shell, and multi-link rear suspension. These attributes are hallmarks associated with agility and poise when it comes to cornering keenly and will enable the new Auris to offer a genuine alternative to the hatchback segment’s longstanding beacons in this area.
The latest powertrains at its core
Toyota has long been at the forefront of developing efficient and environmentally friendly engines, and the new Auris for late 2018/early 2019 is set to continue this tradition. Diesel will no longer be offered; the decision having been made to solely offer petrol and hybrid power. A choice of two hybrid powertrains will provide flexibility to Auris drivers with differing circumstances and requirements, starting with a 120bhp 1.8-litre conventional self-charging setup. The petrol engine will work seamlessly with the electric motor and battery to deliver intuitive, silent and responsive power along with attractive running costs, low CO2 emissions and as high as 50% all-electric motoring in certain conditions.
The second hybrid powertrain that will be offered for the third generation Toyota Auris has a 2.0-litre petrol engine at its heart. Paddles flanking the steering wheel will enable drivers to eke maximum performance from the 177bhp peak.
A petrol version will also be available from launch and as yet Toyota has just revealed that it will be a 1.2-litre unit.
An exciting prospect
The forthcoming third generation Toyota Auris will clearly be the most stylish, efficient and sporty version yet and will represent a compelling choice for a variety of drivers from families to fleets. Placing your trust in the new Auris is a positive step for the environment and also for British car manufacturing and Inchcape Toyota is eagerly anticipating its arrival in showrooms.