The third-generation Toyota Auris made its debut at this week’s Geneva International Motor Show.
For the new model, Toyota is going all out on hybrid power, as the Auris has been revealed with just one conventional petrol engine. The conventional petrol engine is actually the 1.2T motor that resides in the C-HR, while there are two hybrid motors on offer. The less-powerful option combines a 1.8-litre engine with an electric motor to generate a combined 91kw, while the higher-spec option uses a 2.0-litre engine to elevate power to around 132kw.
A sharp, aggressive nose heralds the arrival of what Toyota describes as a “more dynamic exterior design”, with narrow headlights (that incorporate LED technology) framing an aggressive mesh grille that's split in two by the front number plate. The bonnet has pronounced sculpting to emphasize the front wings and the side window profile is similar to the striking Toyota C-HR's, particularly at the rear, where it ‘kicks up’ into the rear windscreen pillar. There are small shoulders over the rear wheelarches, which add substance to the rear quarters, as well as slim tail-lights that mirror the shape of the headlamps.
Based on Toyota’s new TNGA platform, the Auris, now 40mm longer than its predecessor, is expected to offer a more rewarding driving experience, thanks to a better centre of gravity, a new multi-link rear suspension and a more rigid body shell through the use of high strength steel.
Toyota SA says the new Auris will arrive in South Africa in the second half of 2018, with the model line-up and specification will be released closer to its local launch.
Also worth a look: the Toyota Everest and the Toyota Corolla Cross: Still King of the Crossover Castle?.
FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota Auris cost in South Africa?
The third-generation Toyota Auris was expected to launch in South Africa in the second half of 2018, but Toyota SA ultimately decided not to bring this model to our market, focusing instead on the Corolla hatchback which filled the same segment.
Q: Is the Toyota Auris available with hybrid engines in South Africa?
While the global Auris featured impressive hybrid options including a 91kW 1.8-litre hybrid and a 132kW 2.0-litre hybrid system, these variants were never officially sold in South Africa as Toyota chose not to import the model.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Toyota Auris in South Africa?
In the premium hatchback segment where the Auris would have competed, South African buyers can choose between models like the Volkswagen Golf from R449,900, the BMW 1 Series from R539,000, and the Audi A3 Sportback from R599,000.
Q: What Toyota models replaced the Auris in the South African market?
Toyota SA focused on the Corolla hatchback range, which starts from around R389,900, and the Corolla Cross SUV from R399,900, both offering better value propositions for local buyers than the premium-positioned Auris would have.
Should You Buy It?
You can't buy the Toyota Auris in South Africa because Toyota never officially launched it here, making this a classic case of "you can't have what was never on the menu." While the global model looked promising with its hybrid technology and sharp styling, South African buyers are better served by the Toyota Corolla hatchback from R389,900, which offers similar practicality with proven local support and parts availability. If you're after a premium European hatchback with hybrid options, the best alternative under R500,000 in SA is actually the Toyota Corolla Hybrid from R449,900, which delivers excellent fuel economy and Toyota's legendary reliability without the headache of grey imports.
