The Auris model follows the launch of the Auris Space Concept at the 2006 Paris Motor Show.

It will be presented for the first time at the Bologna motor show on 5 December 2006 and will be sold starting from the beginning of 2007. Even if it is a "European Car", at the moment Auris is already being sold in Japan.

Design

According to Toyota, "In creating Auris, the designers worked from the inside out, an approach that maximises usable space in the cabin and ensures high levels of passenger comfort through elements such as a flat rear passenger floor and high window surfaces."

The design work was undertaken at Toyota’s European styling studio ED2, following the principles of Toyota’s Vibrant Clarity design philosophy – forward looking and energetic, while retaining clarity of purpose and rationality. The production model retains many of the design cues from the Auris Space Concept, which Toyota premiered at this year’s Paris motor show, including a high waistline, short overhangs and forward balance of the cabin architecture.

Built on an all-new platform, Auris has an overall length of 4,220mm and a long 2,600mm wheelbase. With an overall height of 1,515mm and width of 1,760mm, it provides generous interior accommodation.

The exterior has a strong, dynamic appearance that expresses its driving character. The wide body and track give a stable look and the sharply-defined architecture of the car creates a crisp, fresh feel.

The interior is distinguished by innovative design that works to harmonise driver and passenger with the car. At the front the sculpted console forms a bridge that raises the gear lever and other controls to the perfect ergonomic height.

Technical features

The Auris will be offered in three and five-door hatchback body styles with a choice of two petrol engines (1.4 VVT-i and 1.6 Dual VVT-i) and three diesels (1.4, 2.0 and 2.2 D-4D), all of which meet Euro IV emissions standards.

The range of gearboxes available, too, including a six-speed manual transmission fitted as standard on the 2.0 D-4D 130 and 2.2 D-4D 180. A MultiMode system with paddle shift controls will be available as an option on the 1.4 D-4D 90 and 1.6 Dual VVT-i engines.

European Market

The Auris model line-up is targeted to European customers' demand in the C-segment. In Toyota's plans, it will play an important role in reaching the target of 1.2 million annual sales in Europe by 2008.

Andrea Formica, Toyota Motor Europe Senior Vice-President Sales, Marketing and After Sales, said: “The C-segment is the most important segment in the European car market and many European brands are defined by the image and success of their C-segment models. With the launch of Auris we want to achieve a step-change, not only in sales volume, but also in terms of brand image for Toyota.”

(Source: Toyota)