Toyota Auris (2007 - 2013) 1.4 VVTi T3 5d Owner Review

Pros: Comfortable elevated driving position, 'flying buttress' console is novel, lots of space inside, quiet when cruising, generally nice interior, great dash and clocks, legroom in back for three adults, easy to drive, timing chain needs no replacement, positive steering (Electronic PS), great suspension, handles well, good dual-glove box and other storage, back seats fold quickly, very reliable so far. Will cruise at 80 all day long without fuss. Very good safety rating. Cons: Noisy under acceleration, underpowered up hills and when overtaking, handling sometimes not great over rough surfaces, exterior design bland, SHIFT lights very irritating (and wrong), front door pillars hamper visibility, glove box plastic looks cheap, gear-changes sometimes notchy and imprecise (and frequent), steering can feel vague. Boot not as wide as a Corolla. You won't get anywhere near published fuel consumption figures if you put your foot down. And you will definitely be putting your foot down to get the best out of the 1.4 petrol engine. Conclusion: If you're a petrol-head 'Top Gear' type, you will find this car woefully underpowered, very boring and something your dad would like. From that standpoint the Auris is an also-ran. However, if (like me) you favour comfort, easy driving, easy parking, low-cost insurance and tax and want a spacious, comfortable mid-sized family hatchback that will get you, your family and a load of luggage from A to B quietly, safely, reliably and with the minimum of fuss, then this is the car for you. Go for the most powerful engine option you can afford.