Toyota Auris 2007
Toyota Auris 2007
Performance:
Ride comfort:
handling:
Safety:
Reliability:
Total score:
63%
Recommended models
in the range
Fastest Model
2.2 D-4D SR180 5dr
New price: Used price: 9,275
8.1 secs
0-62mph:
74.3 mpg
12,845
Overview
Like the Corolla which preceded it, the Auris is well-built and competent, but uninspiring.
All three diesel versions weve tried seem to deliver good performance, but the 1.4 D-4D is
the economy king.
The Auris range was revised for 2010, with a minor restyle and re-jig of equipment levels;
continuing engine options are 1.3- and 1.6-litre petrols, and the 1.4 D-4D. The Auris HSD (hybrid
petrol-electric model) joined the range in summer 2010.
The Auris takes up where the long-running Corolla left off and has much in its favour: its
easy to step in and out of, and the driving position gives good forward visibility, for instance.
However, the rear view isnt so clear, and parking sensors are part of an expensive options
pack. The boot holds 315 litres, and grows to 670 litres when you fold the seats.
The Auris rides and handles well, and weve tested three diesel versions. The 1.4 returned
an impressive 53.3mpg (claimed 56.5), providing reasonable power if you rev it hard. The
2.0 diesel was slightly hesitant from a standing start and returned 47.9mpg (claimed 52.3).
The 177bhp 2.2-litre diesel has ample grunt for confident overtaking, as well as cruising. We
matched Toyotas claimed economy, returning 45.6mpg.
Theres a hybrid version, the HSD, which is very economical and could make a good
alternative to a Prius if you dont want quite such an in your face design. Unfortunately its boot
is smaller than the regular Auris because of the hybrids battery pack. That might not matter
when you consider the outstanding 64.2mpg test average it achieved.
According to our latest Which? Car survey, the Auris scores well for reliability, but owners
dont rate it very highly (71% customer satisfaction score).
5,750
Owners View
A very reliable, comfortable
and spacious car. Braking
and stability are excellent.
All round a practical and
affordable family car.
On the road
How we test
The Auris isnt quite as refined as, say, a Golf, nor is it as sharp on-road as some of its rivals,
but for the most part, it succeeds in being everything it needs to be. It corners confidently and
overtakes easily while retaining a comfortable ride. Only at lower speeds do the diesel engines
raise the noise levels.
Performance
The 2.0-litre diesel engine we drove (now discontinued) was the pick of the range at the time. It
pulls strongly and produces bags of torque, so overtaking manoeuvres are completed in next
to no time. The precise steering requires little effort to pull off tight manoeuvres and parking.
Toyota has fitted a capable six-speed gearbox, which has an engagingly direct action. And,
unlike some other six-speed transmissions weve tried, it manages to avoid the trap of placing
the middle (third, fourth and fifth) gears too close together within the rev range.
At first, the 1.4 diesel only came with a five-speed gearbox; its narrow rev range is better
exploited with the six-speed now fitted. Ultimate performance is reasonable, and its quieter
than the 2.0 diesel, but its small capacity means it cant deliver relaxed overtaking.
The HSDhybrid version uses a CVT(Continuously Variable Transmission)gearbox. This
makes it easy and smooth to drive, but it can be noisy under full acceleration as the engine
revs rise dramatically.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Ride comfort
Acceleration (37-62mph)
8.8 secs
8.1 secs
6.3 secs
6.2 secs
5.0 secs
7.0 secs
Rating
The suspension is rather stiff, but well balanced. Long and short bumps are absorbed well, and
jolts caused by manhole covers are not usually felt by passengers. Road-holding is good, too,
and body roll in corners is minimized, producing a comfortable ride.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Performance
Rating
Ride comfort is assessed by our laboratory experts who have driven hundreds of
thousands of miles in a myriad of different
models.
How we test
Handling
Handling
Electronic stability control (optional in lower-spec models) kicks in when swerving sharply to
help the driver keep the car on track. The traction control also activates when accelerating
quickly on slippery surfaces.
In corners, the Auris is nimble, but it has a tendency to develop slight oversteer at the
limit. If this happens, you can expect the stability control (where fitted) to step in and prevent
unwanted sliding.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Rating
Brakes
The brakes are very effective and can be applied in small increments to produce very
controlled braking. Stopping distances are short, even when slowing from motorway speeds,
although the back end is a little twitchy under heavy braking at such speeds.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
The 2.0 diesel engine we tried was very composed; even at high revs, few vibrations disturb
the cabin. Only with the engine idling do the cabin fittings and the steering wheel vibrate
slightly (not such a problem with the 1.4 D-4D diesel). At motorway speeds, noise levels are
pleasantly low, and its possible to hold a conversation without raised voices.
Both inside and out, the build quality is good. Panel gaps are uniform, tight and well
finished. However, the bodywork lacks side protection and the painted bumpers will scratch
easily. Inside the car, the plastic sections of the dash are well finished and leave a lasting
impression of quality.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Cruising noise
69dB
69dB
68dB
68dB
68dB
69dB
Brakes
Rating
Rating
How we test
Cabin and controls
The Auris is more comprehensively equipped than the Corolla ever was. The controls can be a
little fiddly, but once you get used to it, the cabin is fairly easy to use.
The steering wheel is height- and reach-adjustable, as you would expect. Both light and
wiper functions are integrated into the two steering-column levers. The wipers are sensorcontrolled and can adjust automatically to the local weather conditions. The headlights also
come on automatically in low light. The raised position of the gear stick means it falls easily to
hand, and the pedals are easily located.
Perhaps the most striking feature is the handbrake lever, mounted at a steep angle below
the gear stick. With the handbrake on, the lever sits too far back which means you have to
work unnecessarily hard to take it off. Other drawbacks are few and far between, but some
might find some instrument lettering and the built-in satnav (optional) difficult to see in direct
sunlight.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Rating
We like the raised driving position, which is a little higher than in most medium cars. It means
a driver can enjoy good forward views without having to resort to a mini-MPV or compact
off-roader. The auto-dimming rear-view mirror ensures the driver wont be dazzled by the
headlights of a following car. However, the high window line of the windscreen and slope of
the bonnet limit the ability to judge exactly where the front end is. Rear visibility is marginally
better, although with the wide pillars and a small back window, wed strongly recommend
investing in the options pack which includes parking sensors.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Turning circle
11.1m
11.0m
11.1m
11.1m
11.1m
11.1m
Rating
How we test
Whether youre in the back or in the front, the Auris is spacious. Theres plenty of room in the
back for three; all models have air conditioning to regulate interior temperature, while top
models have dual-zone climate control.
Standard equipment levels are high, with even entry-level versions getting air conditioning,
nine airbags, an MP3-compatible CD player, electric front windows and remote central
locking. Sporty versions are badged SR, and come with large alloy wheels, tinted glass, tinted
headlamp covers, a spoiler and unique interior trim.
Setting the wheelarches further back on the body of the Auris than on the Corolla has paid off.
Wide doors and good seat height make it simple to slip in and out, and on slopes the doors
stay open rather than closing on you as you climb out. However, the smart key remoteopening system only works on the drivers door, which is a little irritating.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Rating
Interior space is a major plus-point for the Auris. The front easily accommodates tall adults
(1.9m or more) and the generous cabin width gives a roomy feel. The rear doesnt disappoint
either, with passengers of all sizes also treated to good knee- and elbowroom. However, the
benchs contouring might be a little uncomfortable on a long journey.
The well-padded seats give the driver a relaxed ride in most cases, although some might
find they do not hug the body tightly enough in faster corners. Unlike the drivers seat, the front
passenger seat isnt height-adjustable, which is a shame.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Rating
How we test
Boot and storage
Its easy enough to lift the boot lid, but closing it is a bit tricky because of the handle design
and location. The boot lip is also quite high, so you have to lift luggage up over it.
Boot capacity at 315 litres is about what youd expect for this class, and the wide opening
is good for loading and unloading items. The wheel arches do protrude inwards making it
difficult to squeeze in long or awkwardly shaped items (such as a set of golf clubs). In these
circumstances, it might be easier to drop the rear seats down to increase luggage space to up
to 617 litres (measured up to the window line). A one-touch system quickly allows the rear seat
to be split 60/ 40.
Surprisingly for a family-oriented car, there are precious few cubbyholes for stashing toys
and other small items in the back.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Rating
The heating is pretty slow to warm up the cabin, with passengers in the back suffering the
most. If youre sensitive to pollen, a filter is available as a cost option.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Rating
How we test
Although it is relatively expensive to buy for a car in this class, the Auris does come fitted with
a lot of goodies you might find as extra-cost options in its major rivals. Its also cheap to run,
and holds on to its value well.
Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption
Toyota claims the petrol models are pretty frugal, the early 1.4 or 1.6 engine returning around
40mpg and the latest 1.33-litre giving 48.8mpg and the 1.6 43.5mpg.
However, as you might expect, the diesel models are the most economical. The 2.0-litre
diesel (now discontinued) we drove achieved 47.9mpg in our tests versus the official 52.3
figure; the 1.4-litre diesel achieved 53.3mpg, compared to the published figure of 56.5mpg.
This engine, in the latest versions, is now claimed to give over 60mpg.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Urban (claimed/tested)
47.0 mpg/48.7 mpg
49.6 mpg/48.7 mpg
40.4 mpg/38.7 mpg
40.4 mpg/38.7 mpg
35.8 mpg/39.2 mpg
31.4 mpg/30.7 mpg
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Motorway (measured)
46.3 mpg
45.6 mpg
44.1 mpg
44.1 mpg
40.4 mpg
34.0 mpg
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Combined (claimed/tested)
56.5 mpg/53.3 mpg
58.9 mpg/52.3 mpg
52.3 mpg/47.9 mpg
52.3 mpg/47.9 mpg
45.6 mpg/45.6 mpg
39.8 mpg/38.2 mpg
How we test
Emissions
Emissions
Carbon dioxide emissions for the Auris are low, between 124g/km and 166g/km, meaning
company car tax and VED are both relatively cheap in most cases. The lowest-emissions
model is, unsurprisingly, the 1.4 D-4Ddiesel (tax band Dor E, depending on version), but the
1.33 petrol version makes it into Band E too with its 135g/km output.
Model tested
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 1.4D-4D (90bhp) manual 5-door (2010)
diesel 2.0D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
diesel 2.0 D-4D (126bhp) manual 5-door (2008)
diesel 2.2D-4D (177bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
petrol 1.6 (124bhp) manual 5-door (2007)
Emissions (claimed/tested)
132g per km/139g per km
127g per km/142g per km
144g per km/156g per km
151g per km/156g per km
164g per km/164g per km
166g per km/171g per km
Adult occupant
Child protection
Pedestrian protection
56%
100%
80%
75%
Security
Theft of car:
The Which? Car Survey is the UKs biggest and best reliability and owner satisfaction survey.
In 2012, drivers told us about 47,716 cars, covering more than 450 million miles in the previous
12 months (thats equivalent to driving 18,188 times around the world). This unique feedback
allows us to rate satisfaction and reliability for hundreds of new and used cars.
Note Star ratings below are from 1-5 (1 is very poor and 5 is very good). Percentages shown
under Most common faults indicate the proportion of owners reporting each problem in the
past 12 months.
Brand
Toyota ratings
Overall owner satisfaction for this brand
Brand reliability
Dealer Servicing & repair
246 people
Ownership ratings
Overall owner satisfaction for this range
Ease of driving
Comfort
Dash layout and controls
In-car technology
Styling
Build quality
Practicality
Value for money
Driving enjoyment
84%
Brand ratings
70%
Owners View
Generally reliable and
comfortable but an
intermittent clutch-slip
has frustrated my ability
to enjoy the car. The main
dealer couldnt identify
the cause of the problem.
I am now replacing the car
with an 18 month old Ford
Owners View
Steady & reliable but
sluggish acceleration in
higher gears.
Reliability ratings
Overall Reliability
Petrol cars
Reliability
Breakdowns
Average annual repair cost
Diesel cars
Reliability
Breakdowns
Average annual repair cost
All cars
Reliability
Breakdowns
Average annual repair cost
Up to 3 years old
-
-
-
-
-
-
3%
27
1%
89
4%
56
-
We split reliability into breakdowns (including failure to start), faults (where parts
need replacing) and problems (minor issues e.g. squeaks and loose trim). Where
the car has been on sale for some time,
and we have numerous survey responses
from owners, we also split scores by the
age of car and fuel type. Star ratings are
out of five the more stars, the more reliable the car.
Most common faults
Up to 3 years old
Auto transmission
Interior - Other
Other minor problems
Transmission - Other
Engine electrics - Other
Exhaust system (D)
Mechanical braking
Steering
Cooling system (P)
Fuel system (D)
Failure rate: The proportion of owners reporting this problem in the last year
5%
4%
3%
2%
2%
3-8 years old
9%
5%
4%
4%
4%