Skip advert
Advertisement

Golf-rivalling Toyota Auris revealed at Geneva motor show

The third-generation Toyota Auris is built on the marque’s new platform and promises ‘a more dynamic, engaging driving experience’.

Toyota has revealed the all-new Auris at the 2018 Geneva motor show. Set to take on the VW Golf, it’s armed with Toyota’s latest hybrid powertrain hardware, and uses the Japanese manufacturer's new TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform.

Toyota’s hybrid-vehicle push continues with the new Auris, which will be offered with three powertrains – two (petrol) hybrids and one petrol. The electrically assisted powertrains comprise a 1.8-litre and new 2-litre power unit that develop 120bhp and 177bhp respectively. We suspect the former could borrow the running gear found in the hybrid Toyota C-HR, which is likely to donate the aforementioned 1.2-litre engine, too.

Advertisement - Article continues below

> New Toyota Supra

According to Toyota, the new range-topping 2-litre harnesses the dynamic benefits of the TNGA, delivering an ‘energised drive’. The platform has been designed around specific objectives: design simplification, intelligent placement of components and improved driving dynamics.

In the Auris, this translates to a low centre of gravity, the fitment of multi-link suspension at the rear, and increased torsional rigidity. Toyota is keen to point out these enhancements sharpen the handling without compromising on comfort.

The new platform also offered designers greater scope to style the Auris according to market demands. ‘The architecture transforms to create a solid, wide and low stance that is absolutely critical for the European market,’ said Simon Humphries, executive general manager, Toyota Global Design.

> 2018 Geneva motor show

The Auris’s profile takes on a squatter stance compared to its predecessor, thanks to an increase in length (40mm) and drop in ride height (25mm). Interestingly, the cowl line is sustainably lower (47mm), too, which could point towards a more focused driving position with a lower hip point.

Toyota confirmed production of the new Auris will be undertaken at its UK-based Burnaston plant, the recipient of recent investment worth £240m. Prices are yet to be fixed, but around £20k is expected, with the first deliveries due this summer.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ferrari 296 Challenge 2025 review – Maranello's hybrid supercar goes V6-only
Ferrari 296 Challenge
Reviews

Ferrari 296 Challenge 2025 review – Maranello's hybrid supercar goes V6-only

Stripped of the road car’s heavy and complex hybrid technology, Ferrari’s entry-level competition car provides a glimpse of an alternative universe
15 Mar 2025
Porsche's EV U-turn means more new petrol cars and hybrids are coming
2025 Porsche 911 GT3
News

Porsche's EV U-turn means more new petrol cars and hybrids are coming

The 911 will get even more exclusive and desirable variants with increased customisability going forward
12 Mar 2025
Best hypercars 2025 – the ultimate dream cars
Best hypercars 2025
Best cars

Best hypercars 2025 – the ultimate dream cars

Fastidiously engineered and breathtakingly fast, these are the finest hypercars of all time
17 Mar 2025