Toyota has extended its local hybrid range with the launch of the Auris HSD.
The Auris HSD is powered by a 1,8-litre VVT-i petrol engine and an electric motor that develop a combined output of 100 kW. The petrol engine has a maximum torque output of 142 N.m, while the electric motor develops 207 N.m. Making use of Toyota’s hybrid synergy drive system and a CVT transmission, Toyota claims a zero to 100 km/h time of 10,9 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h. CO2 emissions sit at a low 87 g/km. This drops to zero when the Auris HSD is operating in pure EV mode at speeds of up to 50 km/h for a range of two kilometres.
Aiding with the green credentials of this vehicle are various engine technologies such as exhaust gas recirculation, an electric water pump that, according to Toyota, “enhances engine warm-up performance and reduces cooling friction loss, improving fuel efficiency,” and the elimination of the auxiliary drive belt, which also contributes to better fuel economy.
Setting this model apart from its standard siblings are some hybrid-specific design details. These details include a lower grille and a rear bumper diffuser finished in a hybrid-exclusive graphite metallic paint colour. Toyota’s usual hybrid -defining visual cues – blue Toyota logos at the front and rear, as well as hybrid badges along the side – are also present. The taillamps feature model-specific LED elements.
Among the Auris Hybrid’s key interior features are a binnacle-sited eco drive support display, a hybrid blue shift-by-wire gear lever and hybrid-exclusive instrument panel ornamentation. XS grade versions feature premium quality cloth trim and a hybrid blue-brushed aluminium instrument panel finish.
Standard equipment includes daytime running lights, front foglamps, automatic air conditioning, touch-screen display audio system with Bluetooth, multi-information display with unique hybrid instrumentation featuring blue backlighting, reverse camera, steering switches, leather steering wheel, Smart Entry, electrochromatic rearview mirror, and rain-sensing wipers.
Both XS and XR models come with what Toyota calls simple intelligent park assist. This system uses ultrasonic sensors on the front and rear side-bumpers to identify viable parallel parking spaces. It will then automatically apply the correct sequence of steering angles for the parking manoeuvre into the target space without any steering input from the driver, who’s only has to modulate the throttle. The XR model gains such niceties as larger wheels, different interior finishes, front seat heaters, and cruise control.
Prices:
Auris HSD XS – R297 900
Auris HSD XR – R323 100
Prices include a three year/100,000km warranty (extended to eight years/195,000km on hybrid system components, including the battery) and a five-year/ 90 000 km service plan.