Toyota today announced the Japan launch of the completely redesigned Auris compact hatchback, a strategic compact model for both Japan and Europe. The vehicle will be sold in Japan through Netz dealers. The completely redesigned Auris integrates the underlying appeal of automobiles—styling and performance—and takes them to a new dimension, based on the vehicle’s aim of establishing a new standard for sports hatchbacks.Specific improvements include a 55 mm height reduction for a lower center of gravity, improved driving performance tempered through extensive drive tests in Europe, and the addition of an enhanced “RS” sport grade.
The rear profile expresses the vehicle’s stability with wheel arches designed to reduce the gap between the body and tires. The rear view emphasizes the stable form achieved by the wide base and low center of gravity, reinforcing the round shape of the hatchback door and conveying dynamism through consistency across the surfaces.
A cockpit-like driver’s area that stresses simple driving operation combines with the spacious interior to create a roomy and sporty space. The seats were lowered 40 mm for a lower driving position and the steering wheel angle was modified to enhance the feel of sporty driving.
The new Auris is available in a total of seven exterior colors, including the new sporty Avant-garde Bronze Metallic.Two interior colors, black and greige, are available.The use of a new package and reinforced door openings increase body rigidity by 10 percent and create a lower center of gravity for high maneuverability and stability.
Power steering on 1.8-liter models features brushless motors and a modified gear ratio, improving steering response for more agile driving.In addition, G AI-Shift uses vehicle G-sensors to detect deceleration and turning force, enabling the AI to automatically downshift when entering a corner and to limit unnecessary up shifting when cornering.
The RS grade sports a six-speed manual transmission with modified gear ratio and improved engine control for highly responsive acceleration. Features such as exclusive 16-inch disc brakes combined with special suspension tuning are designed to enhance the joy of driving.
The greatly improved 1.5-liter 1NZ-FE engine combined with CVT control achieves powerful and smooth acceleration with a quiet ride. In addition, the optional Toyota Stop & Start idling-stop function available on 1.5-liter front-wheel drive models increases fuel efficiency even further (19.2 km/L in the JC08 test cycle).
Available automatic high beams, with camera sensor to detect bright light during night-driving, automatically switch from high beams to low beams to ensure front visibility. A panoramic glass roof is also available as an option. Optional SRS side airbags and curtain shield airbags as well as Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) concept seats and seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters (rear seats) provide high safety performance.

