Toyota Auris TR 1.4 D-4D 5dr Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £18,645
Tax Band: D
Insurance Group: 11
MPG: 58.9
CO2: 128
0-62 Mph: 11.9 secs
BHP: 89 BHP
Range: 713 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.5/5
The Toyota Auris is a car that is competent in most things that it does, but one of the drawbacks is that it is lacking in personality, although it does come with a good level of equipment. The diesel engine does offer some very good fuel economy figures while still being dependable in terms of the performance, but is a shame to see that the diesel version is the most expensive in the Auris range before stepping up to hot hatch territory.

PROS:  The diesel engine delivers good fuel economy and the car is also supplied with a good level of trim, while the cabin is spacious and roomy in this car that is a good all rounder.

CONS:  The performance figures aren't particularly sensational, and the cabin isn't as refined as some of its rivals, but it is a little dull when compared with some of the class leaders.

Behind the Wheel

The Auris is a car that can offer the driver plenty of grip, and the car generally handles quite well, but one issue is the fact that the steering does feel a little inert, with not much feedback received from the car. The ride is quite good taking most of the lumps and bumps that the road can throw at it, but it doesn't cushion everything and isn't as comfortable as some of the other cars on the market. The driving position is quite good and the seat and the steering wheel can both be adjusted to suit the individual's driving preferences, and visibility is good too.

The 1.4 litre diesel engine is one that is certainly designed for efficiency over straight line speed and acceleration which reflects in the performance figures. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 11.9 seconds, and the top speed of 109mph isn't too bad. Refinement in the cabin is poor, with the diesel engine fairly noisy around town, and there is also a lot of wind noise at motorway speeds.

Looks & Equipment

The Auris looks a lot like many other hatchbacks on the market, and unfortunately for the Toyota it means the car is lacking a distinct identity of its own. The shape takes its cues from the Volkswagen Golf, with a front end that has a large headlight cluster and a small air intake on the lower bumper. Inside, the large centre console does mean that the driver feels at the centre of the action, and the dials on the dashboard are clear and easy to read.

The level of equipment that comes with the TR trim included with this model is quite good, with climate control ensuring that the cabin is comfortable, while the inclusion of power folding mirrors is a classy touch. The CD stereo has an MP3 player connection, and can also boast Bluetooth connectivity.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The Auris is a practical car that really does most of the things you would expect from a family hatchback, with the legroom and headroom in the back to accommodate five adults without too much squashing. The boot space is also quite good, and the rear seats do fold forward if you need to carry a larger load. Toyota have a good reputation for making reliable cars, and this reliability is backed by a good warranty package, but so far the Auris hasn't been getting great reviews from drivers.

The Auris is also quite a safe car to drive, having been awarded five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests. The car comes with a good range of airbags, and also has the driver aids to keep the car stable on the road.

Value for Money

This diesel version of the Toyota Auris is the most expensive model of the Auris available without looking to the hot hatches, and at £18,230 it is a hefty price tag.

However, the running costs with the diesel engine are quite reasonable, with the engine able to achieve fuel efficiency figures of an average 58.9mpg. The insurance costs are very competitive, and depreciation shouldn't be too bad when it comes to selling the Auris. It is the Toyota warranty package that is a highlight with this car, with a five year warranty and a one year membership of the AA being a very good deal when compared with its rivals.

Toyota Auris TR 1.4 D-4D 5dr Car Review - by 
All Toyota Auris Reviews
Toyota Auris Edition 1.33 VVT-i 5dr - March 2012
The Auris is very good value for money and should be endlessly reliable. It's about as exciting as filling in a tax return but if you're looking for a cheap, practical car, you won't go far wrong w...
Toyota Auris TR 1.33 VVT-i 5dr - March 2012
The Auris TR 1.33 VVT-i perfectly encapsulates the Toyota brand in one car. So it's reliable, cheap and practical but at the same time slow, dull and cheap-feeling.
Toyota Auris TR 1.4 D-4D 5dr - March 2012
The Toyota Auris is a car that is competent in most things that it does, but one of the drawbacks is that it is lacking in personality, although it does come with a good level of equipment. The die...
Toyota Auris TR 1.4 D-4D MultiMode 5dr - March 2012
The Auris replaces the old Corolla and is just as dull as its predecessor. It's a competent all-rounder and should be endlessly reliable but there are more exciting cars out there.
Toyota Auris TR 1.6 V-Matic 5dr - February 2012
The Toyota Auris is a car that is in a class that is filled with quality cars such as the VW Golf and Ford Focus, and although Toyota can boast reliability and a good warranty, many people will not...
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Medium Family Alternatives

You might want to read reviews for other Medium Family cars that you can then compare to the Toyota Auris. Here are some popular Toyota Auris alternatives:

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