The Japanese automaker Toyota has revealed the upcoming new generation of the Auris which will be built at the firm’s Burnaston plant located in Derbyshire. Set to rival the Ford Focus and the Volkswagen Golf, the all-new Auris is up to 40 kg lighter than its predecessor, while at the same time being longer and lower. It’s also stiffer than the model it replaces and will be sold with a choice of gasoline, diesel and hybrid powertrains. No details at this point about the engines, but we do know that all of them will come with improvements over the current ones. Chances are that the entry-level model will be equipped with a 1.3-liter gasoline unit, while a bigger 1.6-liter unit will also be offered. Expect to see a 1.4-liter diesel at first, followed later by the BMW diesel engines.
As far as the Hybrid version is concerned, this will be motivated by a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and a nickel-metal hydride battery. The 2013 Auris is 4,275 mm long, 1,460 mm high, 1,760 mm wide and has a 2,600 mm wheelbase. It has the same width as the model it replaces but it’s 30 mm longer and 55 mm lower. The cargo room is up by 6 liters to 360 liters for the standard model and 127 liters for the Hybrid variant.
The center of gravity and the ride height have been lowered, while Toyota’s engineers have also increased the car’s torsional stiffness by 10%. In addition, the Japanese automaker says that the suspension and steering systems have been re-tuned for a more comfortable and enjoyable drive. As for the design, we notice the sleeker profile with a bolder front grille, LED daytime running lights and the more attractive headlights. At the back it has a more pronounced bumper, wraparound taillights and a wider opening tailigate.
The 2013 Toyota Auris is scheduled to hit the market at the beginning of next year.
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