Toyota Auris Active 1.33 VVT-i 5dr Car Review - May 2013

REVIEW
List Price: £14,945
Tax Band: D
Insurance Group: 7
MPG: 51.4
CO2: 128
0-62 Mph: 12.6 secs
BHP: 99 BHP
Range: 565 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.5/5
This entry level version of Toyota's mid sized hatchback is competitively priced when compared to its rivals on the market, and the level of equipment here is not bad, although the trim is not quite as classy as its rivals. In terms of performance the engine is quite efficient, although it isn't the most powerful of units, while the driving experience is a little uninspiring when compared with the class leaders.

PROS:  It comes with a reasonable level of equipment for an entry level model, and also has a fairly efficient engine while the cabin has plenty of space for passengers in the front and rear.

CONS:  Refinement is a major problem particularly when you're giving the engine a workout, while the driving experience is dull and quite lifeless.

Behind the Wheel

One of the main problems that people will find while driving the Auris is that the steering is quite lifeless and doesn't offer much feedback, and while grip is good it doesn't turn into corners quite as accurately as it should. The 1.33 litre petrol engine is the smallest available in the Auris, and while this offers improved efficiency it does mean that performance isn't great, with acceleration from 0-62mph taking 12.6 seconds. The top speed of 109mph might be achievable, but it wouldn't be pleasant experience, as refinement within the Auris is very limited, with engine, wind and road noise all audible in the cabin.

The centre console does come with a touch screen entertainment which is fine, if a little clunky to use, while all the controls are well positioned for simple use. Getting comfortable in the driving seat is easy as legroom and headroom is generous, although very tall drivers might have hoped the seat could be lowered further.

Looks & Equipment

The dynamic design of the front end of the Auris is certainly attractive, with the company logo at the centre of the narrow sleek grille that links into the headlight clusters for a narrow look for the front end. The lines of the car are clean and the roof curves nicely towards the back end of the car, with a narrow rear window and a large pair of chunky tail lights that do the job well. It is however a shame to see that alloy wheels aren't included as standard with the car.

Apart from the alloy wheels, this entry level version of the Auris is still reasonably equipped, with air conditioning and electric heated mirrors both good features to have, while it also enjoys a good level of security equipment. The car also has a stereo with an MP3 connection point and electric windows in the front of the car.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

When it comes to buying a hatchback for this price, it will be difficult to find one that has more headroom and legroom for the passengers in the rear than the Auris, while the rear seats also recline for an even more comfortable position. The boot is also very good with the option to change the level of the floor, while the back seats fold flat to offer a large load space when needed.

Toyota does generally have good reliability, which should be continued by the Auris, although the some of the cabin plastics do feel a little cheap which hopefully isn't a theme carried out throughout the car. Safety in the Auris is good, as the car achieved five stars in the European safety tests, with stability control and even a driver's knee air bag included as standard in this entry level model.

Value for Money

While the list price of £14,495 is one of the cheapest available for a car of this size, it is also a price that has started to see discounts offered by Toyota, which can add to the value of the car. The performance of the 1.33 litre engine may be a little uninspiring, but in terms of efficiency it does reasonably well, offering an average 52.3mpg, while the low insurance group should also help to keep the costs down.

These cars also enjoy a good resale value, while keeping the car regularly serviced will certainly help drivers to maximise the money recouped when selling the car. The on the road package that comes with the Auris is also good, with a five year or ninety nine thousand mile warranty being particularly impressive, while it also comes with a one year membership of the AA.

Toyota Auris Active 1.33 VVT-i 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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