Toyota Auris
The Toyota Auris isn't as popular as its rivals - the Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf - but it's spacious, keenly priced, and well equipped. It's also a sensible choice for those looking for the best in customer support and build quality. That's especially true since the introduction of the Auris HSD, which uses the petrol-electric hybrid system of the Toyota Prius to deliver impressive fuel economy. All versions feature air-conditioning and lots of safety equipment as standard, although the engine range lets the side down - with the exception of the hybrid HSD, none are particularly quick or comfortable.
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Pros:
- Smart design
- Super-practical hybrid model
- Low running costs
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Cons:
- Still not as exciting as rivals
- Cheap interior controls
- Rough gear changes in hybrid
The Toyota Auris is a rival for the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, and is one of the biggest selling hatchbacks in the world. However, it's the only car on the market that you can have as either a petrol, diesel or hybrid model. The latest version is more practical, offers more space in the boot and inside, and has wider doors for easy access.
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Pros:
- Very easy to get comfortable at wheel
- Lots of cabin storage
- Hybrid very efficient
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Cons:
- Short on power
- Too much wind, tyre and engine noise
- Ride could be better
Toyota's Auris hatchback isn’t considered as good a car as the Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf, but it's a very competent small family hatchback. The petrol-electric hybrid HSD version also has the distinction of being the most economical small family hatchback on sale, thanks to technology taken from the Toyota Prius. Safety and space are both good, but the 1.4-litre diesel engine is noisy, and the cabin design is a little bland.
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