When the car with the golden name hit our streets in 2007, the Corolla was king and, for some reason, the public did not take to the hatchback the way one would have expected. The company has now decided to “hot up” the styling of this C-segment hatch significantly, along with lowering the roofline. While a touch longer than before, it is no wider, even though it looks so from the rear. The projector headlamps now blend into the grille and an aggressive trapezoid air dam adds to the frontal impact. At the rear the result is even more appealing with neatly integrated taillamps that are large but sleek. New Auris is around 50 kg lighter than the outgoing model.
Two engine options are available. The long-stroke 1,3-litre has dual variable valve timing (VVT-i) and delivers 73 kW with 128 N.m of torque at 3 800 r/min. With a six-speed manual gearbox, the claimed fuel consumption is 5,8 L/100 km.
The 1,6 also has dual VVT-i but adds variable valve lift (Valvematic) and a variable-length inlet manifold. This produces 97 kW and 160 N.m at 4 400 r/min. In manual-transmission guise, the fuel consumption is claimed to be 6,2 L/100 km or, with the CVT automatic transmission, 6,1 L/100 km. The CVT also has a step mode that simulates seven speeds.
Boot space is up from the measly 224 dm3 that we measured in our first test of the original model in December 2007 and is now 27 per cent larger with a bigger hatch opening as well. The spare wheel is full-size steel.
The interior sports neat instrumentation with a white on black central display for fuel consumption and other information and the steering wheel controls are classier than before. The different display screens still do not match up – this is something of a Toyota trait, some white on black and others black on green. Also the lip of the facia top is not long enough to fully shield the audio display from sunlight reflections.
The electrically powered steering has also been improved with a tighter ratio to feel much less “wooden” than was the case with the outgoing models. We experienced no “odd” feeling on the test drive. Also impressive was the gear shift that was positive and quick. Just as well at high altitude, because the ‘box needs a lot of stirring for decent acceleration. The ride quality of the Corolla has always impressed us and the Auris has been improved to have much the same effect – taking bumps extremely well but without too much detrimental effect on handling. NVH is impressive and the top spec audio system is quite impressive with excellent high frequency rendition.
On offer for the drive was only the top-spec 1,6. The Hybrid will be available in a month and no diesel versions are planned as yet.
Pricing starts at R195 000 for the 1,3 X.
Included in this base level spec is air-conditioning, an audio system, dual front and side airbags, electric windows and mirrors, three-spoke leather steering wheel, 15-inch steel rims and an audio jack with USB port.
In the 1,6 range, we start with Xi spec costing R217 500. The only change from X to Xi is the addition of 16-inch alloy wheels.
Next is the 1,6 XS for R228 600. This adds display audio with Bluetooth, six speakers, rear facing camera, fog lamps and sports seats.
The 1,6 XR, selling for R253 200, further adds keyless entry, leather seating, curtain airbags and a knee airbag, front seat heaters, push button start and cruise control.
The 1,6 with CVT gearbox is only available in XR spec and sells for R265 600.
A five-year/90 000 km service plan is standard.