The Toyota Auris, a compact hatchback that was first introduced in 2006, has been a popular choice among car enthusiasts for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. However, in 2018, Toyota announced that it would be discontinuing the Auris model in favor of the Corolla, a move that left many wondering about the reasons behind this decision. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Toyota Auris, its features, and the factors that led to its discontinuation.
Introduction to the Toyota Auris
The Toyota Auris was first launched in 2006 as a replacement for the Toyota Corolla hatchback. It was designed to be a more stylish and feature-packed alternative to the Corolla, with a focus on comfort, safety, and performance. The Auris was available in a range of trim levels, including the base model, Sport, and Executive, each offering a unique set of features and options. Over the years, the Auris underwent several facelifts and updates, with the most significant changes occurring in 2012 and 2015.
Features and Capabilities
The Toyota Auris was known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel economy. It was available with a range of engine options, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid variants, making it a versatile choice for drivers with different needs and preferences. The Auris also featured a range of advanced safety features, including seven airbags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock braking. In terms of technology, the Auris came equipped with features like touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
Engine Options and Performance
The Toyota Auris was offered with a range of engine options, including a 1.3-liter petrol engine, a 1.6-liter petrol engine, and a 1.4-liter diesel engine. The hybrid model, which was introduced in 2010, combined a 1.8-liter petrol engine with an electric motor to produce 136 horsepower and achieve an impressive fuel economy of up to 74.3 mpg. In terms of performance, the Auris was capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in 10.1 seconds, making it a respectable choice for drivers who value speed and agility.
Decline in Sales and Market Trends
Despite its popularity, the Toyota Auris experienced a decline in sales in the years leading up to its discontinuation. Several factors contributed to this decline, including increased competition from other compact hatchbacks, changing consumer preferences, and shifts in market trends. The rise of crossovers and SUVs, for example, led many drivers to opt for more versatile and practical vehicles, rather than traditional hatchbacks like the Auris.
Competition and Market Analysis
The compact hatchback market is highly competitive, with numerous models vying for attention from drivers. The Toyota Auris faced competition from models like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Hyundai i30, each offering unique features, capabilities, and price points. According to market analysis, the Auris struggled to stand out in this crowded market, with its sales figures declining significantly in the years leading up to its discontinuation.
Consumer Preferences and Demographic Changes
Changes in consumer preferences and demographic shifts also played a significant role in the decline of the Toyota Auris. Younger drivers, for example, are increasingly opting for more affordable and feature-packed vehicles, while older drivers are seeking more practical and comfortable models. The Auris, which was originally designed to appeal to a wide range of drivers, struggled to adapt to these changing preferences and demographics.
Discontinuation and Replacement
In 2018, Toyota announced that it would be discontinuing the Auris model in favor of the Corolla, a move that was seen as a strategic decision to consolidate the brand’s compact car offerings. The Corolla, which was redesigned and updated in 2019, offers many of the same features and capabilities as the Auris, but with a more modern and stylish design.
Reasons Behind the Discontinuation
According to Toyota, the decision to discontinue the Auris was driven by a desire to simplify and streamline the brand’s product lineup. By consolidating the Corolla and Auris models, Toyota aimed to reduce production costs, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall customer experience. Additionally, the discontinuation of the Auris allowed Toyota to focus on more popular and profitable models, such as the RAV4 and C-HR.
Impact on Dealerships and Customers
The discontinuation of the Toyota Auris had a significant impact on dealerships and customers, particularly those who had grown accustomed to the model’s reliability and affordability. Many dealerships had to adapt to the change by adjusting their inventory and marketing strategies, while customers had to consider alternative models, such as the Corolla or other compact hatchbacks. However, Toyota has assured customers that it will continue to provide support and service for existing Auris owners, ensuring that they can still enjoy the benefits of Toyota’s renowned reliability and customer care.
Conclusion
The Toyota Auris was a popular and reliable compact hatchback that was discontinued in 2018 due to a combination of factors, including declining sales, increased competition, and shifts in market trends. While the decision to discontinue the Auris may have been surprising to some, it reflects Toyota’s commitment to adapting to changing consumer preferences and demographic shifts. The Corolla, which has replaced the Auris, offers many of the same features and capabilities, but with a more modern and stylish design. As the automotive market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Toyota and other manufacturers respond to changing consumer needs and preferences.
The following table provides a summary of the key features and specifications of the Toyota Auris:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.3-liter petrol, 1.6-liter petrol, 1.4-liter diesel, 1.8-liter hybrid |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, 7-speed automatic, CVT |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 74.3 mpg (hybrid model) |
| Performance | 0-60 mph in 10.1 seconds (hybrid model) |
In conclusion, the Toyota Auris may be discontinued, but its legacy lives on in the form of the Corolla and other compact hatchbacks that have followed in its footsteps. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how manufacturers like Toyota respond to changing consumer needs and preferences, and what new models and technologies they will introduce to meet the demands of the modern driver.
What was the main reason behind Toyota’s decision to discontinue the Auris?
The decision to discontinue the Toyota Auris was primarily driven by the company’s desire to simplify its product lineup and focus on more popular models. The Auris, which was known as the Corolla iM in some markets, was a compact hatchback that competed in a highly saturated segment. Despite its strengths, the Auris failed to gain significant traction in the market, leading Toyota to reassess its priorities. By discontinuing the Auris, Toyota aimed to reduce production costs, minimize complexity, and allocate resources more efficiently.
The discontinuation of the Auris also allowed Toyota to focus on its core models, such as the Corolla sedan and the RAV4 crossover, which have traditionally been strong sellers for the brand. Additionally, Toyota has been investing heavily in its hybrid and electric vehicle technology, and the resources freed up by discontinuing the Auris can be redirected towards these initiatives. By streamlining its product lineup and prioritizing its most popular models, Toyota can better compete in a rapidly evolving automotive market and improve its overall profitability.
How did the rise of crossovers and SUVs impact the Toyota Auris?
The rise of crossovers and SUVs had a significant impact on the Toyota Auris, as many consumers began to favor these vehicles over traditional hatchbacks. The Auris, which was designed to appeal to a more conservative demographic, struggled to compete with the popularity of crossovers like the Toyota C-HR and the RAV4. As a result, sales of the Auris declined, making it less viable for Toyota to continue production. The shift in consumer preferences towards crossovers and SUVs is a trend that has been observed across the automotive industry, with many manufacturers adjusting their product lineups to meet changing demand.
The decline of the hatchback segment, in general, has been a challenge for many automakers, including Toyota. The Auris, which was once a strong seller in Europe, saw its sales decline significantly in recent years, making it difficult for Toyota to justify continued production. In contrast, crossovers and SUVs have continued to gain popularity, thanks to their appealing design, versatility, and perceived practicality. By discontinuing the Auris, Toyota can focus on developing more competitive crossovers and SUVs that meet the evolving needs and preferences of its customers, ultimately helping the brand to remain relevant and competitive in a changing market.
What role did the European market play in the decision to discontinue the Toyota Auris?
The European market played a significant role in the decision to discontinue the Toyota Auris, as it was one of the primary regions where the vehicle was sold. However, the European market has been undergoing significant changes in recent years, with many consumers shifting towards crossovers and SUVs. The Auris, which was popular in Europe in the past, saw its sales decline significantly, making it less viable for Toyota to continue production. Additionally, the European market has been impacted by regulatory changes, such as the implementation of the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which has affected the profitability of many vehicles, including the Auris.
The European market is also highly competitive, with many manufacturers offering a wide range of vehicles in the compact hatchback segment. The Auris, which was once a strong competitor, struggled to stand out in a crowded market, leading to declining sales and profitability. By discontinuing the Auris, Toyota can focus on developing more competitive vehicles that meet the unique needs and preferences of European consumers, ultimately helping the brand to remain relevant and competitive in the region. Furthermore, Toyota can redirect resources towards its hybrid and electric vehicle technology, which is expected to play a critical role in the European market in the coming years.
Will the Toyota Corolla sedan be affected by the discontinuation of the Auris?
The Toyota Corolla sedan is not expected to be directly affected by the discontinuation of the Auris, as it is a distinct model with its own unique characteristics and appeal. The Corolla sedan has traditionally been a strong seller for Toyota, and it continues to be a core model in the brand’s lineup. While the Auris was a compact hatchback, the Corolla sedan is a compact sedan, and it competes in a different segment. As a result, the discontinuation of the Auris is not expected to have a significant impact on Corolla sedan sales.
The Corolla sedan is expected to continue to be a popular model for Toyota, thanks to its reputation for reliability, durability, and low operating costs. Additionally, the Corolla sedan has been updated in recent years to include new features, such as advanced safety technology and improved fuel efficiency, which are expected to appeal to consumers. By focusing on its core models, such as the Corolla sedan, Toyota can simplify its product lineup and improve its overall competitiveness in the market. The Corolla sedan is also expected to play a critical role in Toyota’s plans to expand its hybrid and electric vehicle offerings, with a hybrid version of the Corolla sedan available in many markets.
What are the implications of the Toyota Auris discontinuation for the brand’s hybrid and electric vehicle plans?
The discontinuation of the Toyota Auris is not expected to have a significant impact on the brand’s hybrid and electric vehicle plans, as the Auris was not a primary model for showcasing Toyota’s hybrid technology. However, the resources freed up by discontinuing the Auris can be redirected towards the development of new hybrid and electric vehicles, which is a key priority for Toyota. The brand has announced plans to expand its hybrid and electric vehicle offerings in the coming years, with a focus on models that are expected to be in high demand, such as crossovers and SUVs.
The discontinuation of the Auris also reflects Toyota’s commitment to simplifying its product lineup and focusing on models that are best positioned to succeed in a rapidly evolving market. By prioritizing its hybrid and electric vehicle technology, Toyota can improve its competitiveness and reduce its environmental impact. The brand has set ambitious targets for reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, and the development of new hybrid and electric vehicles will play a critical role in achieving these goals. As a result, the discontinuation of the Auris is expected to have a positive impact on Toyota’s long-term sustainability and competitiveness.
How will the discontinuation of the Toyota Auris affect the brand’s sales and revenue?
The discontinuation of the Toyota Auris is expected to have a limited impact on the brand’s sales and revenue, as the model was not a significant contributor to Toyota’s overall sales volume. The Auris was a niche model that appealed to a specific demographic, and its sales were relatively low compared to other Toyota models. As a result, the discontinuation of the Auris is not expected to have a significant impact on Toyota’s overall sales and revenue. However, the resources freed up by discontinuing the Auris can be redirected towards more profitable models, which is expected to have a positive impact on Toyota’s bottom line.
The discontinuation of the Auris is also part of a broader strategy by Toyota to simplify its product lineup and improve its operational efficiency. By focusing on its core models and reducing complexity, Toyota can improve its profitability and competitiveness in the market. Additionally, the brand can redirect resources towards new models and technologies that are expected to drive growth and profitability in the coming years. As a result, the discontinuation of the Auris is expected to have a positive impact on Toyota’s long-term sales and revenue, even if it has a limited impact in the short term.
What are the alternatives to the Toyota Auris for consumers who are looking for a compact hatchback?
For consumers who are looking for a compact hatchback, there are several alternatives to the Toyota Auris available in the market. These include models such as the Honda Civic Hatchback, the Mazda3 Hatchback, and the Volkswagen Golf, among others. These models offer a range of features, including advanced safety technology, improved fuel efficiency, and sleek designs. Additionally, many of these models are available with hybrid or electric powertrains, which can provide improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
The alternatives to the Auris also reflect the evolving preferences of consumers, who are increasingly looking for vehicles that offer a unique blend of style, functionality, and sustainability. As a result, many manufacturers are developing new compact hatchbacks that meet these needs, with a focus on advanced technology, improved performance, and reduced environmental impact. By considering these alternatives, consumers can find a compact hatchback that meets their needs and preferences, even if the Toyota Auris is no longer available. Toyota itself is expected to continue to offer competitive models in the compact segment, including the Corolla sedan and the C-HR crossover, which can provide an attractive alternative to the Auris for some consumers.