25.9.2012 Toyota announces new Auris specification

Toyota has released prices and specifications for the new Auris five door hatchback, which will go on sale in December 2012 and will be manufactured here in the UK.

The new Auris will make its world debut later this week at the Paris motor show, will be launched in a four-grade line-up with on-the-road prices from £14,495.

All powertrain options will be available from the start of sales: 1.33 Dual VVT-i and 1.6 Valvematic petrol and 1.4 D-4D diesel units, plus Auris Hybrid with Hybrid Synergy Drive.

The petrol and diesel models all use a six-speed manual transmission, with Toyota's Multidrive S CVT offered as an option on the 1.6 Valvematic. The Auris Hybrid car uses an E-CVT automatic transmission.

New Auris will introduce a new Toyota grade structure, which rises from an entry-level Active trim, through Icon and Sport to the top-of-the range Excel. The 1.33 Dual VVT-i engine will be available in Active and Icon grades; the 1.6 Valvematic in Icon, Sport and Excel; and the 1.4 D-4D in all trims.

The Auris Hybrid will be offered in Icon and Excel versions, costing £19,995 and £21,745 respectively. CO2 has not been confirmed as yet, but more information about fuel economy and emission will be clear after the official unveiling next week in Paris.

All new Auris will be equipped as standard with seven airbags, a new follow-me-home lighting system, Hill-start Assist Control, Vehicle Stability Control and LED daytime running lights.

A new park assist system will be available in the Auris range, fitted as standard to Excel models and an affordable option for Icon and Sport versions. Not only will it steer the car neatly into a space, it will also help manoeuvre it out again.

Judging by the popularity of the last Auris model, the new range is likely to be a popular choice for both private and business users. The British-built hybrid offers a quality vehicle with particularly goof fuel economy and low emissions – which were major reasons for it winning the Next Green Cars 2010 Car of the Year Award.

Newspress