Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4.2
Running Costs
4.5
Practicality
4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a family hatchback that puts reliability and efficiency first? The Toyota Auris could be exactly what you need. This practical family car has built a solid reputation for dependability and low running costs, making it a sensible choice for families and commuters alike. It’s the kind of car that does everything well without any fuss or drama.
The Auris stands out in the crowded family hatchback market with its impressive hybrid technology and Toyota’s legendary build quality. While some rivals offer more excitement, the Auris focuses on what really matters for everyday driving. The interior is spacious and well built, with controls that are simple to understand and use. You get a car that feels solid and reassuring from the moment you sit behind the wheel.
What makes the Auris special is its no nonsense approach to family motoring. The hybrid models are particularly impressive, offering excellent fuel economy for city driving and longer journeys. It handles predictably and rides comfortably, making it perfect for school runs and motorway trips alike. While it won’t win any awards for driving excitement, it excels at being a dependable, efficient family car that you can rely on day after day.
What's the Toyota Auris Like to Drive?
The Toyota Auris is designed for efficiency and comfort rather than thrills. The petrol engines range from a 1.33 litre naturally aspirated unit producing 99 horsepower, up to a 1.2 litre turbocharged engine with 116 horsepower. The hybrid models combine a 1.8 litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a total output of 134 horsepower. While acceleration isn’t rapid, with 0 to 60 mph taking between 9 and 11 seconds, the engines provide adequate power for everyday driving situations.
Where the Auris really impresses is in its driving manners. The steering is light and easy to use around town, making parking straightforward. The suspension is tuned for comfort, soaking up bumps and potholes effectively. This makes it an excellent choice for families who prioritise comfort over sporty handling. The hatchback feels stable and predictable on the road, giving you confidence in all weather conditions. Road noise is well controlled, creating a peaceful cabin environment for passengers.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.33L 4-cylinder / 1.2L Turbo / 1.8L Hybrid
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Power Output
99 - 134 bhp
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0-60 mph
9.0 - 11.2 seconds
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MPG Combined
40 - 74 mpg
- Boot Space
- 360 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Toyota Auris?
Step inside the Auris and you’ll find a well designed, practical interior that emphasises functionality over flashiness. The dashboard layout is clear and logical, with all controls falling easily to hand. The materials feel solid and durable, reflecting Toyota’s reputation for build quality. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making longer journeys pleasant for both driver and passengers. There’s good adjustment for the driver’s seat and steering wheel.
Space is generous for a family hatchback. Front seat passengers have plenty of room, while rear seat space is adequate for adults on shorter trips and ideal for children. The cabin is quiet and refined, with good insulation from road and wind noise. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, electric windows, and a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. Higher specification models add features like climate control, satellite navigation, and premium audio systems to enhance the driving experience.
The Toyota Auris is an excellent choice for buyers who prioritise reliability, efficiency, and practicality over driving excitement. It delivers everything you need from a family hatchback without any unnecessary complications. The hybrid models are particularly impressive, offering exceptional fuel economy that makes a real difference to your monthly budget. The interior is well designed and built to last, reflecting Toyota’s commitment to quality.
Is the Toyota Auris Expensive to Run?
The Toyota Auris excels when it comes to running costs, particularly the hybrid models. The standard petrol engines return between 40 and 50 mpg in real world driving, while the hybrid variants can achieve up to 74 mpg in official tests. This translates to excellent fuel economy for daily commuting and family trips. Insurance groups are reasonable, typically ranging from group 10 to 15, making cover affordable for most drivers.
The main advantage of choosing an Auris is Toyota’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs. Regular servicing is straightforward and reasonably priced, while the hybrid system comes with an extended warranty for peace of mind. While the initial purchase price may be higher than some rivals, the combination of low fuel costs, affordable insurance, and strong reliability makes it an economical choice long term. car finance options are widely available, making the Auris accessible to more buyers.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Toyota Auris
|
Honda Jazz
|
Hyundai i20
|
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £16,000 | £18,000 | £15,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.33L 99hp | 1.3L 102hp | 1.2L 84hp |
| Power | 99 bhp | 102 bhp | 84 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 11.2 seconds | 10.7 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
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Running Costs
|
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| MPG Combined | 50 mpg | 53 mpg | 57 mpg |
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Practicality
|
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| Boot Space | 360 litres | 354 litres | 352 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Hybrid option, Excellent reliability, Spacious interior | Versatile seating, Premium interior, Great build quality | Long warranty, Good value, Modern tech |
Toyota Auris Practicality & Boot Space
The Toyota Auris delivers impressive practicality for a family hatchback. The 360 litre boot is spacious enough for weekly shopping, holiday luggage, or sports equipment. The rear seats fold down to create a large, flat loading area when you need to carry bigger items. Inside the cabin, there are plenty of storage compartments for phones, drinks, and other everyday items that families accumulate.
For families with children, the Auris works well as a practical daily driver. The rear doors open wide for easy access to child seats, and there’s enough space for two child seats side by side. The high seating position gives good visibility for all passengers. While it may not be as spacious as some larger family cars, it strikes an excellent balance between manageable size and practical space. Compared to other used Toyota cars, the Auris offers one of the best combinations of efficiency and family friendly features.
We’ve had our Auris hybrid for three years and it’s been absolutely brilliant. The fuel economy is amazing for school runs and the build quality feels rock solid. It’s not the most exciting car but it does everything we need perfectly.
The Toyota Auris stands out as one of the most sensible choices in the family hatchback market. It combines Toyota’s legendary reliability with impressive fuel economy, especially in hybrid form. The practical interior and comfortable ride make it ideal for families who need a dependable car for everyday use. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it excels in all the areas that matter for real world motoring.
You choose the Auris because you want a car that will serve you well for years without any drama or unexpected bills. Its efficient engines, spacious interior, and solid build quality make every journey comfortable and stress free. If you’re looking for a family hatchback that puts substance over style, with excellent value available in cars under £10,000, the Toyota Auris deserves serious consideration.
A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
