The Toyota Auris. For over a decade, this nameplate was synonymous with unwavering reliability, sensible economics, and the kind of steadfast dependability that makes a car feel less like a machine and more like a trusted member of the family. While it has since reverted to the globally recognized Corolla name, the Auris remains a dominant force on the used car market, attracting buyers who value intelligent engineering over fleeting trends. But with two distinct generations, multiple facelifts, and a diverse range of petrol, diesel, and hybrid powertrains, the question looms large for any prospective owner: which Auris model is the best?
The answer, as you might expect, isn’t a single, definitive model. The “best” Auris is entirely dependent on you—your budget, your driving style, your daily commute, and your priorities. This comprehensive guide will dissect the entire Auris lineage, from its humble beginnings to its technologically advanced final form. We will explore the generations, compare the crucial powertrains, and break down the trim levels to help you identify the perfect Auris for your needs.
Understanding the Auris Generations: A Tale of Two Eras
The Toyota Auris story is split into two clear chapters. Each generation represented a significant step forward in design, technology, and driving dynamics, and understanding their core differences is the first step in your buying journey.
First Generation (E150; 2006-2012): The Dependable Trailblazer
When the first-generation Auris launched, it had the monumental task of replacing the legendary Corolla hatchback in Europe. Its design was conservative, a safe and rounded shape focused on maximizing interior space and practicality. It was, in every sense, a car built to be a tool—a supremely reliable one, but a tool nonetheless. The interior, while ergonomically sound, was a sea of hard, durable plastics that prioritized longevity over luxury.
Under the bonnet, the E150 offered a range of VVT-i petrol engines and D-4D diesel units. The petrol engines, particularly the 1.6-litre Valvematic, are the stars of this generation. They are remarkably robust, relatively simple mechanically, and capable of astonishingly high mileage with just basic maintenance. The diesels, especially early 2.0-litre and 2.2-litre units, offered strong torque but can be prone to more expensive issues like head gasket failure as they age, making them a riskier proposition on the used market today.
Who is the first-generation Auris for? This model is the undisputed champion for the budget-conscious buyer. If your primary concerns are purchase price and the near-certainty of getting from A to B without drama, a well-maintained, late-model (2010-2012) 1.6 VVT-i petrol Auris is an almost unbeatable choice. It lacks modern infotainment and active safety features, and its styling won’t turn any heads, but its fundamental mechanical integrity is beyond reproach.
Second Generation (E180; 2012-2018): The Modern Contender
The second-generation Auris was a revolution. Toyota shed the conservative design of the E150 for a sharper, more angular, and significantly more stylish aesthetic. With a lower roofline and a more aggressive front end, it finally had the visual appeal to match its European rivals. The transformation was even more dramatic inside. The old, plasticky dashboard was replaced with a modern, vertically-oriented design featuring better materials, soft-touch surfaces, and the introduction of the Toyota Touch infotainment system.
This generation is where the Auris truly came into its own, especially after its significant 2015 facelift. The facelifted models are particularly desirable, boasting a yet more premium interior feel, a larger touchscreen, and crucial updates to the powertrain lineup. It’s in this second generation that the choice becomes more complex and, ultimately, more rewarding. This is where you’ll find the game-changing hybrid, the spirited turbo-petrol, and a much-improved overall driving experience.
Who is the second-generation Auris for? This is the model for the vast majority of modern buyers. It strikes a fantastic balance between affordability, modern technology, safety, and style. It feels like a contemporary car, and its diverse engine options mean there’s a perfect fit for almost any lifestyle.
The Powertrain Showdown: Choosing Your Auris’s Heart
This is the most critical decision you’ll make. The engine and gearbox define the car’s character, running costs, and long-term reliability. For the second-generation Auris, three key powertrain philosophies emerged.
The Unbeatable Champion: The 1.8 Hybrid Synergy Drive
This is the powertrain that defines the modern Toyota identity. Combining a super-efficient 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with an electric motor, a battery pack, and a planetary e-CVT gearbox, the Auris Hybrid is an engineering marvel. Forget what you know about traditional cars; this is different. There is no conventional gearbox, no clutch, no starter motor, and no alternator.
The result is a driving experience of unparalleled smoothness and quietness, especially in urban environments. The car can pull away and travel at low speeds on silent electric power alone. In stop-start traffic, where a conventional car is at its least efficient, the hybrid is in its element, constantly recuperating energy and saving fuel. The reliability of this system is now legendary. With fewer moving parts to wear out, the Hybrid Synergy Drive has proven to be one of the most durable powertrains ever built. The fear of battery failure is largely unfounded, with most lasting the life of the vehicle and Toyota offering extended warranties for peace of mind.
The payoff is at the pump. Owners regularly report fuel economy figures of 55-65 mpg in mixed driving, a figure that traditional petrol and even diesel rivals struggle to match in the real world. For company car users and private buyers in areas with emissions-based charging, the low CO2 figures offer significant financial benefits.
The verdict on the Hybrid: For 90% of buyers, the 1.8 Hybrid is unequivocally the best Auris model. It is the most economical, the most reliable, and the most relaxing car to drive day-to-day. If your driving is a mix of city, suburban, and occasional motorway journeys, look no further. It is the pinnacle of Toyota’s philosophy of sensible, forward-thinking engineering.
The Spirited Alternative: The 1.2-litre Turbo Petrol
Introduced in the 2015 facelift, the 1.2-litre direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine was Toyota’s answer to the downsized turbo trend from Ford and the VW Group. Mated to a crisp six-speed manual gearbox or a conventional automatic, this engine transformed the Auris’s character. Where the Hybrid is smooth and serene, the 1.2T is peppy and engaging.
It offers a more traditional driving experience, with a responsive throttle and a satisfying surge of torque from the turbo. For the driver who enjoys a more connected feel to the road and the mechanical involvement of changing gears, this engine is a revelation. It feels significantly more powerful than its 114 bhp figure suggests and is a willing companion on a winding country road. On the motorway, it’s quiet and refined, delivering respectable fuel economy.
However, it is a more complex engine than the hybrid. It has a turbocharger, a high-pressure fuel system, and other components that add potential long-term failure points. While Toyota’s engineering is top-notch, its real-world fuel economy, especially in town, will never match the hybrid’s.
The verdict on the 1.2T: This is the Auris for the enthusiast who needs a practical car. If you find the hybrid experience a little too detached but still want a modern, efficient, and reliable Toyota, the 1.2T is an excellent choice. It offers a fantastic blend of fun and functionality.
The Old Guard: The 1.33 & 1.6 Petrol and Diesel Engines
The pre-facelift second-generation models were also available with a 1.33-litre and 1.6-litre Valvematic petrol engine. The 1.33 is generally considered underpowered for a car of this size and best avoided. The 1.6 is a solid, dependable unit—a carryover of Toyota’s traditional strengths—but it was completely outclassed in both performance and economy by the arrival of the 1.2T and Hybrid.
Diesel options, including a 1.4 D-4D and a later 1.6 D-4D sourced from BMW, were also offered. In today’s climate, these only make sense for extremely high-mileage motorway drivers. The potential for expensive issues with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valves from short-journey usage makes them a poor choice for the average driver compared to the supremely efficient hybrid.
Body Style and Trim Levels: Perfecting the Package
Once you’ve chosen your powertrain, the final pieces of the puzzle are the body style and trim level.
Hatchback vs. Touring Sports: Space or Agility?
The standard five-door hatchback is a perfectly practical and handsome car, ideal for city living and small families. But the unsung hero of the lineup is the Touring Sports. This estate version adds a huge amount of versatility without a significant penalty in driving dynamics or economy. The boot is vast, easily swallowing luggage, pushchairs, or sports equipment, making it a brilliant and often overlooked alternative to the ubiquitous compact SUV. For families or anyone with an active lifestyle, the Touring Sports is a fantastically practical choice.
Decoding the Trims: From Active to Excel
Trim levels dictate your car’s features and comfort. While names varied slightly by year, the hierarchy in the UK market generally followed this pattern. A simple breakdown helps clarify the best value.
| Trim Level | Key Features & Target Audience |
|---|---|
| Active | The entry point. Very basic, often with steel wheels and manual air-con. Best for those on the tightest of budgets who care only for the mechanicals. |
| Icon / Icon Tech | The sweet spot. This is the volume seller and the best value for money. Typically adds alloy wheels, a reversing camera, the Toyota Touch 2 touchscreen, DAB radio, and dual-zone climate control. Icon Tech often added satellite navigation and other small perks. |
| Design | The style-focused choice. Builds on Icon by adding larger alloy wheels (often 17-inch), privacy glass, and sportier interior trim details. A great choice if you want your Auris to have more visual presence. |
| Excel | The luxury model. This is the one to get if your budget stretches. It includes everything from the lower trims plus features like keyless entry and start, heated seats, automatic wipers and lights, parking assist, and often the more advanced ‘Toyota Safety Sense’ package with pre-collision warning and lane departure alert. |
The Verdict: Crowning the Best Auris Model
After dissecting every facet of the Toyota Auris, we can now draw some firm conclusions to crown the “best” model for different types of buyers.
The Overall Champion: 2015-2018 Auris 1.8 Hybrid Excel (Hatchback or Touring Sports)
This is, without a doubt, the ultimate Auris. It combines the most desirable elements of the entire range into one complete package. You get the updated, more stylish design of the facelifted model. You get the supremely reliable and astonishingly economical Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain. And in Excel trim, you get all the modern conveniences and safety features that make a car a pleasure to live with every day—from heated seats on a cold morning to the peace of mind of advanced safety systems. If you need the extra room, the Touring Sports version of this car is one of the most practical, reliable, and cost-effective family cars you can buy. For the vast majority of people, this is the perfect Auris.
- The Enthusiast’s Pick: For the driver who prioritizes engagement, the 2015-2018 Auris 1.2T Design is the clear winner. It offers a fun, turbocharged punch and a great manual gearbox, wrapped in a stylish package with sporty wheels and trim, without sacrificing Toyota’s core reliability.
- The Ultimate Budget Choice: If funds are tight, a late-model (2010-2012) first-generation Auris 1.6 Valvematic TR is a fantastic buy. It’s mechanically simple, incredibly tough, and will provide years of faithful service for a fraction of the cost of a newer model.
Ultimately, the Toyota Auris is a car you buy with your head, but the best versions prove that a sensible choice doesn’t have to be a boring one. By focusing on the refined second-generation model, particularly the facelifted versions from 2015 onwards, you are getting a car that excels in almost every area that matters to a real-world driver. Whether you choose the serene efficiency of the Hybrid or the peppy nature of the 1.2 Turbo, you are buying into a legacy of quality. The single most important factor, regardless of your choice, is a full and complete service history. The best Auris is always a well-cared-for Auris. Choose wisely, and it will be one of the most satisfying and stress-free cars you will ever own.
Which generation of the Toyota Auris is considered the best?
The second generation of the Toyota Auris, produced from 2012 to 2018, is widely regarded as the superior model. It represented a significant leap forward in terms of design, interior quality, and driving dynamics compared to its predecessor. The exterior styling is sharper and more modern, while the cabin features a lower driving position and higher-quality materials, creating a more engaging and premium-feeling environment. Crucially, post-2015 facelift models also introduced the “Toyota Safety Sense” package, adding valuable active safety features like a pre-collision system and lane departure alert, making it a much safer and more contemporary choice.
While the first generation (2006-2012) is an exceptionally reliable and practical car, it is often criticized for its bland styling and a less refined driving experience. Its interior, though durable, feels dated with hard plastics and a less ergonomic layout. Although it remains a solid and dependable budget option, the second-generation model offers a more complete package. It successfully combines Toyota’s hallmark reliability with improved comfort, better technology, and a more enjoyable drive, making it the definitive Auris for most prospective buyers.
What are the most recommended engine options for the Auris?
The 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid is the standout engine choice across the Auris range, especially in the second generation. It offers an outstanding combination of serene performance and excellent fuel economy, particularly in urban and suburban driving where it can run on electric power alone for short distances. The smooth e-CVT automatic transmission makes for a relaxing drive in traffic, and its proven reliability is a major selling point. Furthermore, low CO2 emissions mean owners benefit from significantly reduced annual road tax, making it the most sensible and economical choice for the majority of drivers.
For those who prefer a purely conventional engine, the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, introduced with the 2015 facelift, is the best alternative. It provides a surprisingly spirited performance that feels much more responsive than the older, non-turbo 1.33-litre and 1.6-litre units, without a major penalty in fuel consumption. While the diesel engines offer good motorway economy, they are generally more complex, potentially more expensive to maintain, and less suited to the shorter journeys many Auris models are used for. Therefore, the 1.8 Hybrid and 1.2 Turbo petrol are the top two recommendations.
How reliable is the Toyota Auris, and what are its running costs like?
The Toyota Auris enjoys a stellar reputation for reliability, consistently ranking near the top of owner satisfaction and dependability surveys. This is a core strength of the Toyota brand, built upon robust engineering and high-quality manufacturing. Major mechanical issues are exceptionally rare. The hybrid models are particularly bulletproof, as the powertrain has fewer moving parts subject to wear and tear, such as a traditional clutch or starter motor, and the regenerative braking system helps extend the life of the brake pads and discs. Owners can confidently expect years of trouble-free motoring with just routine maintenance.
Running costs for the Auris are commendably low, which is a key part of its appeal. The 1.8-litre hybrid version leads the pack, with many owners achieving real-world fuel economy figures of over 60 MPG, coupled with very low or even free road tax on most models. Servicing, insurance, and replacement parts are all reasonably priced and widely available. Even the conventional petrol models are frugal and inexpensive to maintain, making the entire Auris range a financially prudent choice for anyone seeking a dependable and economical family hatchback.
What are the key differences between the main trim levels like Icon, Design, and Excel?
The trim levels in the Toyota Auris range primarily dictate the amount of standard equipment and aesthetic enhancements. The ‘Icon’ trim is often cited as the best value-for-money choice. It typically comes equipped with all the essential modern features, including 16-inch alloy wheels, a reversing camera, a touchscreen multimedia system with DAB radio and Bluetooth, and air conditioning. For most buyers, the Icon provides a comfortable and convenient package without needing to spend more on higher specifications.
Moving up to the ‘Design’ trim level primarily adds stylistic upgrades. These usually include larger 17-inch machined-face alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, and sometimes unique interior upholstery or trim finishes, giving the car a sportier and more distinctive look. The range-topping ‘Excel’ trim focuses on luxury and technology, adding features such as keyless entry and start, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, satellite navigation, and more advanced safety systems. The choice between them ultimately depends on a buyer’s budget and how highly they value premium comforts versus practical functionality.
Is the Auris Hybrid a good investment for a used car buyer?
Yes, a used Auris Hybrid is an outstanding investment for a wide range of buyers. Its primary appeal lies in its long-term cost savings. The exceptional fuel efficiency drastically reduces weekly fuel bills, a benefit that is most pronounced for those who drive in city traffic or on congested routes. Combined with low road tax, the day-to-day running costs are significantly lower than for an equivalent petrol or diesel competitor. This financial advantage is paired with the model’s renowned reliability, meaning you are less likely to face unexpected, costly repair bills for the powertrain.
A common concern with used hybrids is the battery’s health and lifespan, but Toyota’s hybrid system has a proven track record of longevity, with batteries designed to last the life of the car. To provide extra peace of mind, Toyota dealers offer a Hybrid Health Check service, which, when passed, extends the battery warranty for another year. This, along with strong residual values fueled by high demand for used hybrids, means that while the initial purchase price might be slightly higher, the overall cost of ownership is very competitive, making it a smart and secure purchase.
Are there any common problems to look for when buying a used Toyota Auris?
Despite its excellent reliability record, there are a few minor points to check when inspecting a used Toyota Auris. Pay close attention to the condition of the alloy wheels, particularly on higher-specification Design and Excel models. The diamond-cut finish can be susceptible to “white worm” corrosion if the protective lacquer has been chipped by kerb damage. Inside, test the touchscreen infotainment system thoroughly to ensure it is responsive and that all functions, including the Bluetooth connection and reversing camera, operate as they should. On older, first-generation models, a full service history is important to ensure they haven’t suffered from the oil consumption issues that affected some early 1.33-litre engines.
Beyond these specific points, a general inspection is always wise. Check for a complete and up-to-date service history, as this is the best indicator of a well-maintained vehicle. For hybrid models, ask if it has a history of annual Toyota Hybrid Health Checks, which extend the battery warranty and show diligent ownership. During a test drive, listen for any unusual noises and ensure the brakes feel smooth and effective; the regenerative braking on the hybrid can feel slightly different initially but should be progressive and quiet. Overall, potential issues are rare and typically minor, reinforcing the Auris’s reputation as a safe used buy.
How does the Auris Touring Sports (estate) model differ from the hatchback?
The primary and most compelling difference between the Auris Touring Sports and the standard hatchback is its vastly superior practicality. The estate body style provides a significantly larger boot, boasting approximately 530 litres of capacity with the rear seats in use, compared to the hatchback’s 360 litres. This advantage becomes even more pronounced when the rear seats are folded flat, opening up a cavernous, flat-floored load area of over 1,600 litres. This makes the Touring Sports an ideal choice for families, dog owners, or anyone who frequently transports large or bulky items like sports equipment or flat-pack furniture.
Impressively, the Touring Sports achieves this added utility without significant compromise. It is available with the same reliable and efficient engine lineup as the hatchback, including the highly popular 1.8-litre hybrid system. The driving experience, ride comfort, and interior cabin environment are virtually identical to its smaller sibling, meaning you don’t sacrifice refinement for space. It simply takes all the established strengths of the Auris—reliability, low running costs, and comfort—and adds a huge dose of versatility, making it the most practical model in the range.