Toyota Auris Hybrid T Spirit HSD 1.8 VVT-i 5dr (17" alloys) 5dr Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £22,360
Tax Band: A
Insurance Group: 13
MPG: 70.6
CO2: 93
0-62 Mph: 11.4 secs
BHP: 98 BHP
Range: 699 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3/5
The Toyota Auris Hybrid comes complete with third-generation hybrid technology that is both extremely refined and smooth. If you live in London it makes sense as it's congestion charge exempt but if you don't, the extra £4k it costs over the standard Auris might seem a lot to pay.

PROS:  A highly economical car offering both innovative technology and a civilised drive. The Toyota Auris T Spirit HSD 1.8 VVT-i 5dr (17" alloys) 5dr comes in the form of an eagerly responsive and remarkably practical vehicle that handles well and should be reliable.

CONS:  It's expensive and it doesn't offer the flair or all-round competency of its rivals.

Behind the Wheel

The Toyota Auris Hybrid T Spirit HSD 1.8 VVT-i 5dr (17" alloys 5dr is fitted with a 98bhp petrol engine and an 81bhp electric motor. The Auris develops 105 lb-ft torque at 4000rpm and has a top speed of 112mph. 0-62mph takes 11.4 seconds.

If we were to sum up the Auris' handling characteristics in one word, it would be 'competent'. It grips fairly well through the bends but offers nothing in the way of driver feedback through the wheel. The ride is fairly good but there is plenty of wind, road and engine noise at speed.

Looks & Equipment

The Toyota Auris Hybrid T Spirit HSD 1.8 VVT-i 5dr looks pretty much identical to the standard petrol-powered Auris, however, there are a few exterior styling tweaks which hint at the car's eco-credentials: an extension of the air intake and a reshaped grille, which in turn allow for improved cooling and airflow efficiency.

These modifications do make the car look a little sportier in style but they are actually there to improve the Auris Hybrid's aerodynamic efficiency.

The Auris Hybrid's interior is very similar to that of the standard car so that means dull grey plastics and dreary styling.

The Toyota Auris Hybrid T Spirit HSD 1.8 VVT-i 5dr comes as standard with power steering, climate control, electric front mirrors and windows, MP3 connectivity, an immobilizer, CD player and leather seats. Extras come in the form of metallic paint rear, parking sensors and Bluetooth.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The boot space is a little compromised in comparison to the standard Auris because of the bulk battery pack. As such, the boot space is decreased from 354-litres to 279-litres. There is still plenty of cabin space.

Every Hybrid comes with front, side and curtain airbags as well as an additional airbag, which is there to protect the driver’s knees. The Toyota Auris Hybrid T Spirit has received an overall Euro NCAP rating of 5 stars.

Toyotas are generally very reliable and the Auris Hybrid is supplied with a five year/100,000 mile warranty.

Value for Money

The Toyota Auris Hybrid T4 HSD 1.8 VVT-i 5dr costs £21,895 which is expensive for a small family hatchback.

Unsurprisingly, the fuel economy is fantastic and you should manage 70mpg. Road tax and Congestion Charge will also be free thanks to CO2 emissions of 93g/km.

If you live in London or cover a lot of miles every year than the savings offered by the Auris Hybrid may offset the car's initial cost. If not, you're better off with a standard petrol or diesel model.

Toyota Auris Hybrid T Spirit HSD 1.8 VVT-i 5dr (17" alloys) 5dr Car Review - by 
All Toyota Auris Reviews
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Medium Family Alternatives

You might want to read reviews for other Medium Family cars that you can then compare to the Toyota Auris. Here are some popular Toyota Auris alternatives:

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