The Auris hatchback was showcased at the Geneva motor show and it will be available with a choice of petrol hybrid engines, and there will be no diesel options.
Johan Van Zyl, from the Toyota Motor Europe said the company chose to not launch a diesel version based on customer demand. He added that 41 percent of Toyota’s European sales in 2017 were hybrid cars. The new Auris features three engines - a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol motor that puts out 116hp, which is the only non-hybrid option, and two hybrid systems. The 123hp, 1.8-litre motor are currently used in the C-HR and Prius, and a new 2.0-litre engine that makes 180hp.
Van Zyl said, “Customer demand is a clear sign that our petrol-electric hybrids are a strong and popular alternative.” The car is built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. Van Zyl said, “TNGA gives the car rigidity and a low centre of gravity. These are the qualities you need for outstanding comfort, handling and driving pleasure.”
Toyota’s Burnaston factory in Derbyshire, UK will produce the car and the company’s already invested £240 million to prepare the plant for use of the TNGA platform.