Frankfurt, Germany,
12
September
2017
|
08:02
Europe/Amsterdam

2017 TOYOTA AURIS

Introduction of the new Auris Touring Sports Freestyle and the 2018 model year Auris range

Five years into its lifecycle, the Toyota Auris is selling in greater numbers than ever, with hybrid versions commanding an ever-greater share of the sales mix. Auris is building its appeal with the new, limited edition Freestyle version of the Touring Sports wagon, plus colour and trim changes for the 2018 model year.

Since its introduction in 2012, the current – second – generation Auris has played a pivotal role for Toyota at the heart of the European market. A model designed and manufactured in Europe, it continues to meet the high expectations of C-segment customers. Regular improvements have focused on quality, style and performance to maintain its appeal and popularity.

Toyota is unveiling further developments of the Auris range at the Frankfurt motor show that will strengthen and widen its appeal in the highly competitive market for compact hatchbacks and wagons. These include the new Auris Touring Sports Freestyle edition and the 2018 model year Auris range.

Hybrid leading Auris’ success

Toyota’s petrol-electric hybrid technology was introduced to the first generation Auris range in 2010 and has steadily increased its share of sales. More and more customers are making it their first choice in preference to conventional petrol or diesel powertrains. Toyota hybrid technology has always been renowned for delivering low emissions and strong fuel economy, but there is also strong user-appeal in its quiet and relaxing drive quality.

In 2016, hybrid versions of the Auris hatchback and Touring Sports accounted for almost 60 per cent of the models’ total European sales. This year the rate of growth has increased further, with almost two thirds of Auris buyers choosing a hybrid.

Toyota has sold more than 1.26 million Auris in Europe across both generations of the model, with around 400,000 of these being hybrid versions. Significantly, the current model has increased its sales volumes every year since its introduction in 2012, reaching more than 144,000 units in 2016.

Auris Touring Sports Freestyle edition

Smart urban styling features distinguish the Auris Freestyle, a new interpretation of the successful Auris Touring Sports wagon.

This special edition model features black wheel arch covers and side skirts, and front and rear underbody protection with an aluminium finish. The purposeful appearance also includes a black front grille, rear privacy glass and bright silver door mirror covers, plus five double-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels with a black and machined silver finish.

In other respects, the new Freestyle model offers customers all the established benefits of the Auris Touring Sports, including an exceptional range of hybrid, petrol and diesel powertrains and a generous loadspace that extends to an impressive 1,685 litres with the rear seats folded – ideal for those who need plenty of room for sports and lifestyle kit.

The Freestyle will be offered as a limited edition model, on sale in European markets from December.

2018 Model Year Auris

The Frankfurt motor show provides first sight of changes to the Auris range for the 2018 model year. The new features amplify Auris’ established quality and style, adding extra contemporary and sporty appeal to the exterior.

The colour choice is extended with a new blue colour available for the popular Auris Bi-tone models. There will also be a fashionable Manhattan Grey option, a new metallic shade that has a more subtle, deep tone rather than a glossy look. This will be available as a full bodywork finish and will also be added to the choice available for Bi-tone models, in an eye-catching combination with a contrast black roof, shark fin antenna, rear spoiler, door mirror housings and front grille. Black side sills will be available as an option and the new black grille will also become a feature of Auris Style grade models.