With a brand new 2.0 litre self-charging hybrid powertrain joining the engine line-up, the new 2018 Corolla model range also marks the debut of Toyota’s dual hybrid strategy.

Toyota has always prided itself on listening to its customers and responding to the feedback they provide. Now, after 20 years of hybrid leadership and more than 12 million global sales, including 1.5 million units in Europe, the company has also focused on the input of potential customers who want more power whilst driving a hybrid.

For this reason, Toyota has decided to offer its core models with a choice of two hybrid powertrains; one offering all the fourth generation hybrid system’s strengths, including improved response and linearity, and the traditional benefits of fuel efficiency and a relaxing drive, the second building on these strengths with greater power on demand, effortless acceleration and more dynamic, ‘fun to drive’ characteristics.

Reflecting the brand’s continued focus on self-charging hybrid technology, both Hatchback and Touring Sports versions of the new Corolla will offer customers just one conventional engine -a 116 hp 1.2 litre turbo petrol unit- and a choice of 122 hp, 1.8 litre or 180 hp, 2.0 litre self-charging hybrid powertrains.

The 1.8 litre system fulfils all the requirements that customers have come to expect from a Toyota self-charging hybrid powertrain -quiet, intuitive, responsive and self-charging EV technology with low cost of ownership, no need for plug-in recharging and greater reliability than any conventional powertrain. The system offers outstanding fuel economy and low CO₂emissions, and up to 50% all-electric driving* on the everyday commute.

Whilst continuing to reward customers with all of the above benefits, the 2.0 litre system takes full advantage of the added ride comfort, stability, handling and driving enjoyment inherent in the newly adopted Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-C platform. It will offer drivers an ‘energised drive’, with more power and steering wheel-mounted paddles for a more dynamic, engaging driving experience.

Targeting the heart of the European C-segment, the new Hatchback and Touring Sports are dynamic and stylish cars which meet all the requirements of both the daily commute and diverse weekend usage, whilst combining driving enjoyment in all road conditions with the peace of mind and low running costs unique to Toyota’s self-charging hybrid drive technology.

TOYOTA NEW GLOBAL ARCHITECTURE (TNGA)

Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) represents the foundation for all of Toyota’s future powertrain and vehicle development, bringing a new-found consistency to driving feel across the entire Toyota model range. More of an entire philosophy than mere platform, TNGA marks a revolution in the way the company designs, engineers and manufactures vehicles. It is integral to the company’s mission to build ever better cars that are more stylish, more enjoyable to drive and even safer.

TNGA introduces new, defined guidelines for the positioning of different components which simplify vehicle design in key areas. The impact is on items that are largely out of sight, so designers still had the freedom to give both new Corolla versions a visually distinctive and individual look with a lower stance and more appealing proportions.

The new Corolla range’s TNGA GA-C platform guarantees a more rewarding driving experience thanks to a centre of gravity that is lowered by 10 mm (bonnet height -47 mm, front and rear hip points -24 and -26 mm respectively), multi-link rear suspension fitted as standard across the model range, and a 60% more rigid body shell through the use of high strength steel as reinforcement in key areas. All contribute to better handling and stability without compromising ride and comfort.

All new TNGA-based vehicles prioritise the highest active and passive safety standards. New Corolla is designed to meet the exacting standards of independent crash testing programmes and provide increased active safety levels through the sophisticated functions and systems of the latest Toyota Safety Sense technology. (Read more about Toyota Safety Sense in the dedicated chapter).

DESIGN

Touring Sports Exterior Design

‘With the new Corolla Touring Sports, we aimed to develop the most sleek and sporty wagon in the C-segment, whilst offering D-segment downsizers the benefits of class-leading rear seat legroom and a highly competitive loadspace volume’ (Kazuhiko Isawa, Chief Stylist – European Design Centre)

With a body type that is unique to Europe, the new Touring Sports was styled in Europe at the recently opened Design Centre in Zaventem. Thanks to the adoption of TNGA, the new wagon is no longer merely a variation of the hatchback, but has become a distinctly separate model in its own right.

The new Touring Sports is 58 mm longer than the model it replaces. More significantly, it has a 100 mm longer wheelbase of 2,700 mm, and the front to rear seat couple distance has increased by 48 mm to 928 mm, providing best-in-class rear seat passenger legroom.

Though it shares the same dynamic, distinctive frontal styling and 25 mm reduction in overall height as the new Corolla Hatchback, every body panel of the new Touring Sports from the B pillar aft is exclusive to the model, giving the wagon the refined, sensuous appearance and sweeping roofline of an elegant yet robust shooting brake.

This sporting profile is reinforced by the same wide, flaring wheel arches as those of the Hatchback, their edges hemmed to allow the positioning of the wheels further outwards to emphasise the new Corolla’s wider stance and lower centre of gravity.

To the rear, the Touring Sports design theme shares the Hatchback’s muscular rear shoulders, widely spaced, full-LED lamp clusters and a rear windscreen 12 degrees more slanted than that of the current generation.

Distinct from the hatchback, the licence plate has been repositioned higher, within the tailgate panel, and the step at the tailgate sill has been reduced for a more premium appearance. Deeper rear bumper styling also echoes the frontal Under Priority Catamaran design.

The Touring Sports will be available with a choice of five new wheel designs including 18” machine-finished aluminium alloy wheels and two new 17” alloy wheel designs -one silver and one black machine-finished.

It will be available in a choice of 11 body colours of which four -Oxide Bronze Metallic, Emotional Red 2, Precious Silver and Phantom Brown- are new.

Exclusive to the segment, the Corolla Touring Sports’ dynamic design is further emphasised through a range of four optional bi-tone colour schemes available from launch. They combine the body colour with a black finish to the roof and roof pillars, and the front lower grille surround.

Hatchback Exterior Design

‘Our primary goal with the new Corolla was to create the most bold and dynamic hatchback on the market, without compromising on interior usability,’explains Simon Humphries, Executive General Manager, Toyota Global Design.

‘Harnessing the low centre of gravity afforded by the TNGA layout, the vehicle is light and agile in the side view, yet as we move to the rear, the architecture transforms to create a solid, wide and low stance that is absolutely critical to the European market.’

The new Corolla adopts a significantly more sporting, dynamic and distinctive design with more striking frontal styling.

Overall length has increased by 40 mm, all of which has been absorbed within a longer wheelbase for better safety and improved design. Importantly, the overall height of the new hatchback has been reduced by some 25 mm, whilst the cowl height of the vehicle is a significant 47 mm lower. The result is a sleeker shape and a more attractive, lower bonnet, which in turn improves safety by giving the driver a clearer forward view.

The new frontal styling is a further evolution of Toyota’s Under Priority Catamaran and Keen Look design philosophies. Beneath the curved front edge of a flatter, clamshell bonnet, the narrow upper grille incorporates new, all-LED headlamp clusters with integral Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

The surround to the large, trapezoidal lower grille projects powerfully forward. It is less pointed and more vertical than before, resulting in a reduction to the vehicle’s front overhang of some 20 mm.

The sides of the grille surround form a trademark, catamaran hull shape at the front corners of the new Corolla, emphasising the vehicle’s 30 mm increase in width, and its broad, sporting stance. The upturned edges of the front spoiler locate new, LED foglamps. And the grille mesh itself is of a new more articulate and refined design.

In profile, the elegance of the new Hatchback’s sleek, sporting silhouette is enhanced by a choice of the same five new wheel designs as those offered on the Touring Sports.

The new rear design is more rounded than before, strengthening the visual relationship between the front and rear of the vehicle. The tailgate is constructed in resin to both make possible the design’s complex curvature, and save weight.

An increase in rear windscreen angle of some 14 degrees and the muscular hip above the rear wheel arch combine to make the overall appearance of the vehicle rear more compact. A roof spoiler is integrated into the tailgate and a shark fin antenna is fitted as standard on all model grades.

The rear all-LED lamp clusters feature light guides placed as far as possible towards the vehicle extremities to emphasise the new Corolla’s wide, planted rear stance. And the rear bumper styling echoes the frontal Under Priority Catamaran design; a thin lower lip here incorporating twin chrome inserts.

The new Corolla Hatchback will be available in the same choice of 11 body colours as the Touring Sports, and will also benefit from the same range of four optional bi-tone colour schemes.

Touring Sports and Hatchback Interior Design

‘Having already demonstrated their expertise on the C-HR, a dedicated TME Sensory Quality team was assigned to oversee interior quality in the new Corolla. Working in close cooperation with stylists and engineers, the team analysed and visualised the whole interior, taking into account not only colours, grades and executions, but also such details as light intensity and direction. 

Based on this work, numerous enhancements have been implemented at each development phase, ranging from shape consistency to colour and grain matching, as well as quality control in later phases. The result of such painstaking attention to detail has resulted in a significant improvement in overall sensory quality.’(Yasushi Ueda, Chief Engineer – Toyota Motor Corporation)

The new Corolla Touring Sports and Hatchback model range showcases an all-new interior designed to create a spacious, modern and cohesive cabin environment in which new textures, colours and trim combine to offer the highest levels of visual and tactile quality.

Particular attention has been paid to the interior of the Touring Sports version, which has been specifically tailored to the European market, offering customers sensory quality of the highest order.

Key to the interior’s feeling of spaciousness is a new instrument panel design which is 24 mm slimmer overall. The resultant reduction in height of the upper panel area reduces the perceived mass of the panel itself, and improves forward visibility whilst still allowing for a lowering of the front seat hip point to lower the vehicle’s centre of gravity and offer a more engaging driving position.

Conversely, the centre console has been made 42 mm wider and 22 mm higher to both improve switchgear and gear lever ergonomics and also enhance the wrap-around feel of the driver’s cockpit area. Simultaneously, the centre console armrest height has been optimised, and its sliding range increased by 20 mm for greater occupant comfort.

A revised front seat design features changes to both the seat back and cushion springs and the optimisation of urethane pad thickness. In combination these measures achieve a better driving posture with wider pressure dispersal for enhanced comfort and reduced long-haul fatigue.

Standard on High grade models, a newly developed front sports seat features thin and wide shoulder supports which overlap solid, thick side bolsters to combine a thin seat design with excellent holding performance.

The ergonomic excellence of the driver’s cockpit area is further enhanced by a range of new switchgear and instrumentation which completes the Human Machine Interface (HMI).

Fully described in the Premium Comfort and Convenience chapter, this includes a new driver’s instrument binnacle incorporating a new 3D-effect panel or a Multi-information display, a new, 10” colour head-up display, a new 8” central multimedia display, an electronic parking brake, a wireless phone charging pad and an electrochromatic rear view mirror.

In combination with the extended couple distance for greater legroom, the rear seats have also been revised, with a new seat cushion material for the more even distribution of occupant weight over the cushion area. As a standard feature, the rear seats may be lowered by remote lever operation for a fully flat loadspace.

This all new interior design is made all the more cohesive and unified in appearance through the use of a range of high visual and tactile quality material and trim finishes, including satin chrome plating and paint, piano black, synthetic and genuine leather, stitching, and a choice of fabric, Alcantara or genuine leather seat upholstery.

The new Corolla Touring Sports has the additional benefits of a front to rear seat couple distance increased by 48 mm to 928 mm for improved rear seat passenger space, and a generous, 598 litre VDA loadspace incorporating numerous aids for to practicality and convenience.

A hands-free kick sensor is now available for operation of the power tailgate, activated by waving a foot under the central area of the rear bumper. Its opening has been extended by 10 mm.

The repositioning of the rear shock absorbers has allowed for a simplification of the deck side wall trim structure. This not only maximises loadspace width and enhances loading ease, but also makes side wall storage pockets available behind the rear wheel housings on both sides of the deck.

The load surface itself features a two (upper and lower) position deck, which may be open and closed in the upper position as if hinged from the rear seatbacks. Fitted as standard on all grades, it is also fully reversible with carpet on the upper face and a resin-finish underside for wet or dirty use.

The deck under-space has been enlarged and fully carpeted, and features detachable side separators. Convenience is further improved through the adoption of the world’s first LED compartment lamps on both sides of the loadspace, and a detachable, one-touch retractable tonneau cover.

PREMIUM COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE TECHNOLOGY

Largely fitted as standard on High grade models and available as an option throughout the new Corolla model range, a comprehensive range of comfort and convenience technology is available to enhance life on board for both the driver and all cabin occupants.

Particular attention has been paid to enhancing the convenience of the Corolla Touring Sports’ loadspace, which features a reversible, two position deck board fitted as standard throughout the range, the world’s first LED lighting and, on High grade versions, an aluminium anti-slide rail.

Further technology highlights include:

LED Headlamps:A range of three, grade-dependant LED front lamp clusters includes a triple LED parabola unit type headlamp, a Bi-Beam LED headlamp with AHB, and an LED headlamp with an Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).

World First 3-D Driver’s Meter:The drivers meter cluster is equipped with a 7” Multi-information Display offering a choice of digital and analogue speedometer modes. The panel may also be switched to the world’s first 3-D effect, in which the dials appear to float in mid-air.

Head-up Display (HUD):Its position and brightness adjustable via the steering wheel switchgear, an optional 10” colour TFT Head-up Display projects various driving-related information and warnings onto the windscreen glass within the driver’s field of view, such as speed limits, navigation prompts and an eco driving indicator.

Toyota Touch Multimedia System:The new Corolla’s 8”, full colour, touch-screen centre console display features Toyota’s Touch® 2 with Go multimedia and navigation system. The overall user experience of this fast operating system is enhanced by pinch, zoom and slide operation, and the addition of multi-contextual One Box Search.

eCall:eCall provides drivers with assistance during an incident when the airbags are deployed. It will automatically contact national emergency services, providing essential information such as vehicle location and the number of occupants, and ensuring that vehicle occupants will be able to communicate with the emergency services operator even if seriously immobilised.

eCall also allows the vehicle occupant to contact the emergency services directly via a one-push button. The call is made using the vehicle’s in-built SIM, with no charge to the owner.

Connected Services:Connected services will also be offered on the new Corolla. This all-new application makes numerous convenience and peace of mind features available to customers, including Last Mile guidance, Send to Car navigation, Find my Car, Driving analytics and Maintenance Reminder.

JBL GreenEdge Premium Sound System:Hybrid versions of the new Corolla may be equipped with an 8-speaker JBL Premium Sound System. The speakers -including JBL’s iconic, A pillar-mounted horn tweeter- have been specifically tuned to the acoustics of the Corolla’s notably quiet cabin. The system incorporates Clari-Fi^TMtechnology which supplements the frequencies that are lost on compressed audio files -such as MP3 or streaming audio files- in real time, restoring the sound quality and stereo mix as closely as possible to the original recording.

Wireless Mobile Phone Charging:A wireless charging system allows vehicle occupants to recharge all Wireless Power Consortium (WPC)-compatible mobile telephones simply by resting them on a dedicated pad located in front of the gearshift lever.

Skyview Panoramic Sunroof:The Skyview panoramic sunroof features two glass panels, the front panel sliding to give a maximum opening of 272 mm. A mesh deflector reduces wind noise when the panel is fully open, and the roof is fitted with an internal electric roller shade.

Power Tailgate Kick Sensor:A hands-free kick sensor is now available for the opening and closing of the Touring Sports’ power tailgate, activated by sliding a foot under the central area of the rear bumper. The tailgate height when fully open can be customised. The tailgate now features a one-touch, close and lock button.

Simple Intelligent Park Assist with Intelligent Clearance Sonar (SIPA+ICS):The system uses a rear camera and ultrasonic sensors on the front side-bumper to identify viable reverse and parallel parking spaces. It will then automatically apply the correct sequence of steering angles for the parking manoeuvre into the target space; all the driver needs do is control the vehicle’s speed. SIPA automatically activates the Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) system, ensuring the safety of parking manoeuvres.

HYBRID POWERTRAINS

Society’s increasing awareness of environmental issues has led to ever more strict anti-emissions regulations, particularly in large European cities. Combining the lowest possible emissions with the capability of driving for up to 50% of a daily commute under all-electric power alone, Toyota’s self-charging hybrid powertrains represent a compelling proposition in the eco-friendly urban transport market.

The new Corolla is the first Toyota model to offer a choice of 2 self-charging hybrid powertrains. Both Hatchback and Touring Sports versions of will offer customers one conventional engine -a 1.2 litre turbo petrol unit- and a choice of 122 hp, 1.8 litre or 180 hp, 2.0 litre hybrid powertrains.

Improved 1.8 Litre Hybrid Powertrain

The fourth generation 1.8 litre self-charging hybrid system develops 90 kW/122 hp and 142 Nm of engine torque, with the added power of a 53 kW electric motor which develops maximum torque of 163 Nm from zero rpm. It fulfils all the requirements that customers have come to expect from a Toyota self-charging hybrid powertrain -quiet, intuitive, responsive and self-sufficient EV technology with no need for plug-in recharging. It offers low cost of ownership, outstanding fuel economy and low CO₂emissions, and up to 50%* all-electric driving on the everyday commute.

Its size and weight reduced to fit on the new GA-C platform without detriment to output or quietness, the 1.8 litre engine benefits from several friction reducing measures, a larger capacity EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system and optimal heat management.

The calibration of the hybrid drive system has been further refined. Greater torque from the electric motor provides a more linear rpm increase under acceleration. And the adoption of a lithium-ion battery pack promotes even greater fuel economy.

2.0 Litre Hybrid Powertrain

 ‘At the start of the project, we studied European customer profiles and their satisfaction with the 1.8 litre hybrid powertrain. Whilst being very happy with the system’s fuel consumption, comfort, smoothness and reliability, it became apparent that we would not be able to satisfy the requirements of a significant group of potential customers.

People driving turbocharged powertrains above 1.4 litres were clearly asking for faster acceleration and response, and that’s why we took the decision to develop the 2.0 litre hybrid for the European market.’(Rembert Serrus, Senior Manager Performance Planning – Toyota Motor Europe)

The new 2.0 litre system develops 132 kW/180 hp and 192 Nm of engine torque, also with the added torque of a nickel-metal hydride-powered electric motor.

Taking full advantage of the added stability, handling and agility inherent in the newly adopted GA-C platform, it offers drivers an ‘energised drive’, with more power, a Sport mode and a six-speed Sequential Shiftmatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddles for a more dynamic, engaging driving experience.

Moreover, the new 2.0 litre hybrid system is a unique proposition in this segment; no other conventional powertrain can offer the same combination of performance and low emissions. And numerous measures have been taken to ensure that extra power is matched by enhanced fuel efficiency, lower emissions and even quieter running.

A high compression ratio of 14:1, the high speed combustion achieved through the high tumble flow of a highly efficient intake port and long stroke, a new oil pump design and several friction-reducing measures combine with a reduction in size of the transaxle, power control unit, motor and hybrid battery to enhance fuel efficiency.

In addition, the EV drive vehicle maximum speed has been increased to above 115 km/h, and system control has been changed to prohibit engine start without accelerator pedal operation even before engine warm up starts. In combination, these measures substantially enhance fuel efficiency.

Lowering emissions, the exhaust system catalytic converter has been placed closer to the engine, and warm-up control after engine start optimised to achieve early, enhanced exhaust purification.

Furthermore, a balance shaft, amended engine mount position and shape, structural changes to the transaxle, gear tooth polishing, the adoption of a positive/negative hysterisis damper, a lightweight timing chain and revisions to the water pump motor all combine to reduce powertrain noise to exceptionally low levels.

DRIVING DYNAMICS

The new GA-C platform brings considerable dynamic benefits to the new Corolla model range, as well as marked improvements to driver ergonomics and visibility.

Highly Rigid, Lightweight TNGA Bodyshell

Aluminium, high tensile strength steel and hot stamped materials have been extensively used, and the panel thickness of the doors and roof panel reduced. This has effected a considerable weight reduction and, hence, improved fuel efficiency.

At the same time, the addition of adhesives throughout the new bodyshell and an increase in the use of spot welding combine to increase body rigidity by some 60% over both outgoing Hatchback and Touring Sports models, promoting a marked increase in handling agility, responsiveness to steering inputs and high speed stability.

Handling and agility are further improved by the lower mounting height of the engine, the lower hip point of the seats and the location of the hybrid battery beneath the rear seats. In combination, these measures have lowered the new Corolla’s centre of gravity by some 10 mm.

Suspension

The new Corolla features a proven MacPherson strut front suspension system, an all-new multilink rear suspension arrangement, new shock absorber valve technology and, for the first time, the availability of Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS).

The front suspension geometry has been revised, and the coil spring and shock absorber characteristics optimised for a linear steering response during mid- to high-speed cornering. The suspension arm and bush structures have been changed and the friction of sliding parts reduced to minimise the transmission of shocks from rough surfaces and achieve high quality ride comfort.

The newly developed multilink rear suspension combines an increase in luggage capacity through compact system packaging with excellent handling stability and ride comfort. Exclusively designed coils springs offer both handling stability and ride comfort. And link arm location has been optimised to keep the tyres at a toe-in angle both during cornering and under braking, enhancing the vehicle’s response to steering inputs and stability under braking.

Both front and rear suspension systems benefit from a new shock absorber valve design which effects a 40% reduction in friction for a smoother, more comfortable ride.

The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system controls shock absorber damping on all four wheels, enhancing both ride comfort and -through improved steering response and a flatter ride- driving performance. Damping force is automatically and continuously controlled through 650 steps by a linear solenoid actuator, which operates four times faster than a conventional step motor.

AVS cooperates with the Drive Mode Select system to control damping force in accordance with the selection of ECO, NORMAL, SPORT S, SPORT S+ or CUSTOM modes, offering drivers the appropriate balance of ride comfort and handling agility.

Aerodynamics

A further benefit of the GA-C platform is its suitability for the design of a highly aerodynamic body shape through such measures as the overall reduction in vehicle height and the significant lowering of the bonnet height.

Further enhancing fuel efficiency, an optional grille shutter controls airflow to the engine compartment. Closing the shutter not only reduces drag, but also allows the engine to reach optimum operating temperature in a shorter time after a cold start.

Improved NVH

Building on the exceptional quietness of Toyota’s self-charging hybrid technology, the new Corolla benefits from numerous measures to minimise both the noise and vibration entering the cabin.

The engine installation has been carefully designed to minimise vibration during start up and at idling speeds. Engine speed increase at the start of acceleration has also been suppressed, not only to achieve a more linear match of engine and vehicle speeds, but also to enhance quietness during acceleration.

The GA-C platform itself contributes to the suppression of transmission vibration. The steering wheel pad functions as a dynamic damper to suppress steering vibration, and even the tool box functions as a dynamic damper to reduce rear floor panel vibration.

The generous application of sound absorbing and insulating material in the engine bay combines with a triple-layered dashboard inner silencer to minimise the penetration of engine and transmission noise into the cabin.

An integral floor silencer has also been adopted, increased body sealer has been applied to gaps between panels, and foam material has been installed within the body frame in numerous locations to reduce the penetration of wind and road noise into the cabin.

* Depending on driving conditions

The automotive industry is entering a once-in-a-century transformation and Toyota is preparing by shifting from a pure car company towards an innovative mobility provider offering ever better mobility for all.

This brand shift is reflected by a new motor show stand that features 3 distinct areas. One – called Start Your Impossible - is dedicated to new mobility solutions and future innovation. The second celebrates Toyota’s motorsport activities with Toyota GAZOO Racing. And the third area is dedicated to Toyota’s new models, with a clear focus on the latest self-charging hybrid product offers.

New Approach to Press Conference

To fully reflect the changing media communications landscape, the traditional “on-stand” press conference is replaced with a new digital on-demand format that can be experienced at any time –either on stand or on-line, whether at the motor show itself, or anywhere else in the world.

The digital press conference starts with a brief introduction from Dr. Johan Van Zyl, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Europe, followed by an interactive system with modules dedicated to each car on display and other key messages.

The idea is to offer more flexibility for the media to experience Toyota’s press conference at their convenience, whether physically at the show or visiting virtually from anywhere else.

It will be hosted on a microsite under the following URL: parisms.toyota-europe.com as well as via the Toyota Motor Europe YouTube channel.

New Cars on Display

Two key product elements are exclusively featured at the Paris Motor Show: Hybrid technology and Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA).

For more than 20 years Toyota has developed, improved and democratised its self-charging hybrid technology. At Paris this year, only hybrid vehicles will be exhibited – from the compact Yaris, to the latest generations of the Corolla, the RAV4 and the Camry.

Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) forms the basis of Toyota’s new product and powertrain offers. More than a platform, TNGA is an engineering and design philosophy. While improving the driving dynamics of cars, it also allows the development of exterior and interior designs with stronger emotional appeal.

The stand will feature the world premiere of the all new Corolla Touring Sports, alongside the full reveal of its Hatchback sibling. Thanks to the new TNGA-C platform, the new Corolla features an emotional design as well as offering the choice of two self-charging hybrid powertrains – a 1.8l or a brand new 2.0l.

The new RAV4 will debut as a European premiere, with a strong rugged design, the new TNGA-K platform and the new 2.5l self-charging hybrid.

After 14 years of absence, Camry is returning to Western Europe with a completely new model, also underpinned by the new TNGA-K platform and also with the new 2.5l self-charging hybrid.

At the Paris motor show 20 years ago, the Yaris made its world debut. To celebrate that anniversary, a special ‘Y20’ edition is available with the same stand-out Golden Yellow paintwork as the original car from 1998, but this time executed as a bi-tone including a contemporary dark grey roof and other dark grey accents. The other special edition of Yaris at the show celebrates Toyota GAZOO Racing’s successful rally season with a GR Sport version.

Besides car models, Toyota will showcase the latest safety technology development with Toyota Safety Sense featuring new features and functions, fitted on the new Corolla and RAV4.

At the dedicated Toyota GAZOO Racing area, the 2018 Le Mans-winning Toyota TS050 Hybrid LMP1 car will be on display together with the much-coveted Le Mans trophy.

We invite you to visit the new Toyota stand, experience our new digital press conference and learn about our new products in Hall 4.

The new naming coincides with Corolla adopting the common Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), replacing the current three different platforms.  

“The TNGA engineering and design philosophy brings a whole new dimension to our next generation C-segment models. Adding to Corolla’s renowned Quality, Durability and Reliability, it delivers the more emotional values that our customers aspire to, such as a distinctive design, interior refinement, rewarding driving dynamics and powerful yet efficient hybrid powertrains,” said Dr Johan van Zyl, President & CEO of Toyota Motor Europe. “There is no better moment than the launch of the upcoming new generation model to re-introduce the Corolla name to our C-segment hatchback and wagon models.”

The new Corolla Touring Sports will have its world premiere in Paris Motor Show alongside the Hatchback, both in their Hybrid version.

Our vision is to deliver better mobility for all. That’s not just about making cars. It’s about developing solutions that enable everyone to enjoy the freedom of mobility, regardless of age or physical ability.

Our commitment to ever-better mobility for all is strongly linked to our Olympics and Paralympics partnerships. We feel very close to the athletes and para-athletes around the world. It’s feeling captured in our ‘Start Your Impossible’ message. It’s about our belief that everyone should aspire to achieve their life’s ambitions, however challenging.

Turning for a moment to our business performance in 2017. We broke through the one million sales mark in Europe again. That gave us a 4.8 per cent market share. With almost 80 per cent of Toyota vehicles having been built right here in Europe. That shows how dedicated we are to local manufacturing.

It’s our hybrid electric models that are powering our growth. Last year, they accounted for 41 per cent of our total European sales. In Western European markets, it was more than 50 per cent. That’s due to a 38 per cent year on year increase in the number we have sold.

Models that make a strong emotional connection with owners have also boosted our performance in 2017. Specifically the C-HR and RAV4, cars that are great to own, and to drive.

Looking ahead, we want to sustain our growth, both in sales and profit. This year, we again plan to sell more than one million vehicles. And this time we expect the hybrid mix above 47%.

Let’s now talk about the future! Here, to my right, you can see how we expect to achieve our mobility goals. Starting with the new Concept-i.

With Concept-i we are building a new relationship between the driver and the car. In effect, they become partners. Concept-i uses artificial intelligence and advanced connectivity. So it will get to know and understand the driver’s habits and preferences. Its automated driving functions will make journeys easier, safer and more enjoyable.

We have made the Concept-i RIDE fully accessible for people with limited personal mobility, such as wheelchair users. And the Concept-i WALK is compact, adaptable and easy to manoeuvre. So it’s great for moving around pedestrian areas. These 3 concepts are battery electric vehicles. But we are also working on our next generation fuel cell electric technology. That has been applied here in the Fine-Comfort Ride. It looks to the future of premium sedan design. And it’s practical, with a range of more than 1,000 kilometres, fast refuelling and, of course, zero emissions.

Toyota started the electrification revolution more than 20 years ago. We began with Prius. Then we rapidly expanded into core European segments. By the end of the month, we will have sold close to 12 million electrified vehicles worldwide. In Europe the figure is 1.8 million.

Our President Akio Toyoda announced our ambition of selling 5.5 million electrified vehicles a year, by 2030. These will include 1 million Fuel cell and Battery electric vehicles. In Europe, Hybrid electric will remain the primary vector for our future growth, as you can see outlined on the chart behind me.

When we look at the success of our hybrids in Europe, Auris is the model which moved the technology from niche to mainstream. We launched the first Auris Hybrid in 2010. It was aimed right at the heart of the important European C-segment market. Since then we have sold more than 460 thousand Auris hybrids.

It’s been a breakthrough car for Toyota. Because most have been bought by people new to the model, or to the technology. Now it is time for a new chapter in the Auris story.

Ladies and gentleman, I am pleased to present the new, third generation Auris.

As we recently confirmed, the new Auris will be made at our Burnaston factory in the UK and sales in Europe will start early next year. Its main strengths are founded on two innovations: the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) and the 4th generation hybrid electric powertrain.

TNGA gives the car rigidity and a low centre of gravity. These are the qualities you need for outstanding comfort, handling and driving pleasure. Thanks to TNGA we have been able to create a premium, dynamic design. And achieve top class NVH performance. These are key to giving the new Auris a stronger emotional appeal.

Six months ago in Frankfurt we announced a second hybrid electric powertrain for all our core models in the future. And here it is! The new Auris will be the first Toyota to offer the choice of two hybrid electric powertrains. It will have the super-efficient 1.8-litre system, the same as in the Prius and C-HR. And it will also be available with a new 2.0-litre hybrid with 180hp.

Yes, it’s more powerful. But of course it is fuel efficient. And a new Hybrid Transmission will make it even more enjoyable and engaging to drive. The current 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine will complete the range. But, you may ask, where’s the diesel powertrain? The answer is simple : there isn’t one.

We are carrying on a strategy we started with the launch of the C-HR. We are building on the success of our hybrid line-up, and phasing out Diesel engines from our passenger cars in Europe. Customer demand is a clear sign that our petrol-electric hybrids are a strong and popular alternative.

I am also pleased to introduce new upgrades for the smallest member of our range, the AYGO. The current model has done a great job for our brand. It has brought many new, younger and style-conscious customers to Toyota. Across Europe we sold more than 85,000 AYGOs last year.

Now we want to build on that momentum by giving the car even more appeal. On the outside there’s a stronger look for the famous frontal X. Inside there are new colours, patterns and upholsteries. The engine has been made quieter and more responsive. And suspension changes make for a more comfortable ride.

I have talked about the emotional appeal we are bringing to our cars. But we want to add excitement as well. That’s where the work of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing is playing a key role. We launched TOYOTA GAZOO Racing as a brand in Europe last year. Because we know that taking part in motorsports is a great way to make Ever-Better Cars for the road. This year, we have already had great success. Second and third for the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing South Africa Hilux on the Dakar Rally. It’s a super tough event, but more than 40% of the vehicles which made it to the finish were Toyotas!

In WRC, after an exciting start of the season with strong performances in both Monte Carlo and Sweden, TOYOTA is running second in the Manufacturers Championship!

And for our World Endurance Championship team, a full season lies ahead. Including the Le Mans 24-hours. And we are very excited that double Formula 1 World Champion Fernando Alonso will be in our drivers’ line-up! With him, we will further enhance our Hybrid Electric technologies for our future road cars.

And today, with the concept car I am about to reveal, we are preparing for an exciting new sports car that we will be launching soon. Ladies and gentlemen, the new GR Supra Racing Concept.

Yes, the Supra is returning. This concept is a clear signal of our intention to bring back one of our most legendary sports cars to the market. This baby, developed by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, is a thoroughbred designed for the race track.

The best way of taking our ‘Supra Hero’ into a new era. It has been made light, compact and, of course, fast.I think you will agree it looks amazing!

So to conclude, our future will seize the opportunities the Toyota New Global Architecture gives us. To create new cars with emotional designs. Cars that are desirable and genuinely rewarding to own and great to drive. We will accelerate the electrification of our model range. Not just by using our world-leading hybrid electric technology. We will also introduce new battery electric vehicles.

And we will make sure that “Fun to drive” and Proud to Own will be associated with Toyota. Just like Quality and Durability already are.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you all for your kind attention.

And now for your photographs, first of all I would now like to invite Ueda-san, Chief Engineer of the new Auris, to join me here on stage.

Tada-san, Chief Engineer of Supra, will be available next to the GR Supra Concept,

and Terai-san, Chief Engineer of AYGO will be next to the New Aygos.

Thank you very much.

For this reason, Toyota has decided to offer its core models with a choice of two hybrid powertrains; one providing the traditional benefits of fuel efficiency and a relaxing drive, the second building on these strengths with greater power and more dynamic driving characteristics.

In 2010, the first generation Auris was the first high volume, core Toyota model in Europe to benefit from hybrid drive, and now it will be the first model to offer this choice of hybrid powertrains.

The current Auris powertrain line-up consists of five conventional engines and one hybrid powertrain. However, reflecting the brand’s continued focus towards hybrid technology, the new Auris will offer customers just one conventional engine -a 1.2 litre turbo petrol unit- and a choice of 122 hp, 1.8 litre or 180 hp, 2.0 litre hybrid powertrains.

The 1.8 litre system fulfils all the requirements that customers have come to expect from a Toyota full hybrid powertrain -silent, intuitive, responsive and self-sufficient EV technology with low cost of ownership, no need for plug-in recharging, offering outstanding fuel economy and low CO₂ emissions, and up to 50% all-electric driving on the everyday commute.

Whilst continuing to reward customers with all of the above benefits, the 2.0 litre system takes full advantage of the added ride comfort, stability, handling and driving enjoyment inherent in the newly adopted Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. It will offer drivers an ‘energised drive’, with more power and steering wheel-mounted paddles for a more dynamic, engaging driving experience.

TOYOTA NEW GLOBAL ARCHITECTURE (TNGA)

Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) represents the foundation for all of Toyota’s future powertrain and vehicle development. It marks a revolution in the way the company designs, engineers and manufactures vehicles, and is integral to the company’s mission to build ever better cars that are more stylish, more enjoyable to drive and even safer.

TNGA introduces new, defined guidelines for the positioning of different state-of-the-art components which simplify vehicle design in key areas. The impact is on items that are largely out of sight, so designers still had the freedom to give the new Auris a visually distinctive and individual look with a lower stance and more appealing proportions.

The new Auris’ TNGA platform guarantees a more rewarding driving experience thanks to a centre of gravity, multi-link rear suspension, and a more rigid body shell through the use of high strength steel as reinforcement in key areas. All contribute to better handling and stability without compromising ride and comfort.

All new TNGA-based vehicles prioritise the highest active and passive safety standards. New Auris is designed to meet the exacting standards of independent crash testing programmes and provide increased safety levels through the sophisticated functions and systems of the latest Toyota Safety Sense technology.

DESIGN

‘Our primary goal with the new Auris was to create the most bold and dynamic hatchback on the market, without compromising on interior usability,’ explains Simon Humphries, Executive General Manager, Toyota Global Design.

‘Harnessing the low centre of gravity afforded by the TNGA layout, the vehicle is light and agile in the side view, yet as we move to the rear, the architecture transforms to create a solid, wide and low stance that is absolutely critical to the European market.’

Longer and lower than its predecessor, the new Auris adopts a significantly more dynamic design and more striking frontal styling.

Overall length has increased by 40 mm, all of which has been absorbed within a longer wheelbase. Importantly, the overall height of the new hatchback has been reduced by some 25 mm, whilst the cowl height of the vehicle is a significant 47 mm lower than that of the current model. The result is a sleeker shape and a more attractive, lower bonnet, which in turn improves safety by giving the driver a clearer forward view.

The new frontal styling is a further evolution of Toyota’s Under Priority Catamaran and Keen Look design philosophies. Beneath the curved front edge of a flatter, clamshell bonnet, the narrow upper grille incorporates a central Toyota logo and, at its extremities, new, all-LED headlamp clusters with integral Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

The surround to the large, trapezoidal lower grille projects powerfully forward of the bonnet front edge and upper grille in a pronounced step, and is less pointed and more vertical than before, resulting in a reduction to the vehicle’s front overhang of some 20 mm.

The sides of the grille surround form a trademark, catamaran hull shape at the front corners of the new Auris, emphasising the vehicle’s 30 mm increase in width, and its broad, sporting stance.

Beneath the grille, the surround splits to clearly define the lip of a front spoiler, the edges of which are angled upwards to create a zone between the spoiler and the catamaran hull form, in which are housed LED foglamps. The grille mesh itself is of a new design, which is more articulate and refined than the classic honeycomb finish.

The new rear design is more rounded than before in plan form, strengthening the visual relationship between the front and rear of the vehicle. An increase in rear windscreen rake of some 14 degrees and the muscular hip adopted above the rear wheel arch combine to make the overall appearance of the vehicle rear more compact, despite an increase in rear overhang of 20 mm. A roof spoiler is fitted, as standard, on all model grades.

The rear all-LED lamp clusters feature light guides designed to emphasise the new Auris’ wide, planted rear stance. And the rear bumper styling echoes the frontal Under Priority Catamaran design; a thin lower lip here incorporating twin chrome inserts.

The new Auris’ dynamic design is further emphasised through an optional bi-tone colour scheme, which combines the body colour with a black finish to the roof and all glazing pillars.

Also making its world debut, the new AYGO’s unique DNA and stand-out positioning within the highly-competitive A-segment have been further strengthened. Not only does it feature a more youthful and distinctive frontal design, but its improved performance and handling characteristics also make it even more fun to drive.

Under the vision of “Better Mobility For All”, Toyota will showcase the design and engineering it is exploring to maximise the potential of future Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV), autonomous driving and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Making full use of autonomous driving capabilities and AI, the Concept-i Series is a family of three BEVs, each of which has been designed to meet the needs of different types of user in varied driving environments.

The TOYOTA FINE-Comfort Ride Concept looks at how FCEV technology can be developed to produce a spacious new form of premium saloon with a flexible layout.

Last but not least, Toyota will also reveal a modern racing concept which signals its commitment to bring the brand’s most iconic sports car back to the market.

The Toyota press conference will take place on March 6^th at 09:45 at the Toyota stand in Hall 4.

Since the introduction of the first Auris Hybrid in 2010, more than 360,000 units have been sold, and the model currently accounts for 60% of all Auris sales. This clearly shows that the smooth, relaxed and stress-free driving experience offered by Toyota’s hybrid technology has firmly established it as mainstream powertrain choice.

The full hybrid powertrain is engineered to eliminate the need for the petrol engine to run as much as possible in city driving. Toyota’s own data show the cumulative effect of full hybrid operation leads to high proportions of zero-emissions driving being achieved. During a journey, up to 50% of the time can be driven in electric mode, depending on driving conditions.

In-line with Toyota’s philosophy of Kaizen (continuous improvement), the Auris model range has been further refined year-on-year, and is now being further expanded with a brand new Bi-tone edition, offering customers a more distinctive and engaging look.

Available in Pearl White, Tokyo Red or Granite Grey body colours, the Bi-tone edition features machined face 17-inch alloy wheels and a black finish to the door mirrors, roof, shark fin antenna and rear spoiler. The front grille is also finished in black for a stronger appearance.

To the same list of special edition features, Touring Sports models add black roof rails.

In addition, black side sills are available as an option on both body types.

All Auris models come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense fitted as standard. This safety pack takes active safety and driver assistance to new levels, offering customers a Pre-Collision system (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Road Sign Assist (RSA).

The new Auris Bi-tone edition will be available across Europe from May 2017.

The 2017 Model Year update builds on the availability of a new Tokyo Red body colour and newly designed alloy wheels across Toyota’s European designed, engineered and built models: Yaris, Auris, Verso and Avensis.

Yaris

Built in Valenciennes, France, the Yaris has reinforced its presence in the B-segment over the last five years with sales increasing from some 144,000 units in 2011 to more than 160,000 units during the first 9 months of 2016.

Much of this ongoing sales success may be attributed to the Yaris Hybrid. The full hybrid model currently accounts for more than 40% of all Yaris sales in Europe; a percentage which is expected to increase even further.

For 2017, the new Tokyo Red body colour will be available on monotone and bi-tone versions of Yaris, the latter adding a metallic black 'wrap-around' finish to the roof, A-pillars, door mirrors, upper front wing and bonnet leading edge.

Auris

In 2016 to date, Auris Hatchback and Touring Sports models have seen their sales figures increase by 7% to around 125,000, of which 60% are hybrid sales, strengthening the position of Auris as the best-selling hybrid model in Europe.

In addition to the new body colour, 2017 Auris models will be available with new machined face 17-inch alloy wheels and sports seats with a new Black Alcantara upholstery.

From now, Toyota Safety Sense comes fitted as standard on all Auris Hatchback and Auris Touring Sports grades. The safety pack takes active safety and driver assistance to new levels, offering customers a Pre-Collision system (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Road Sign Assist (RSA).

Verso

The Toyota Verso has proved a consistently popular contender in the C-MPV segment, with over 730,000 units sold since its initial launch in 2002.

Tailored to meet the increasingly varied demands of today’s MPV customer, the Verso combines Toyota’s legendary Quality, Durability and Reliability with outstanding value for money. Within compact exterior dimensions, it boasts exceptional roominess, one of the best seat couple distances in its class, and the true multi-purpose vehicle versatility of Toyota’s Easy Flat seating system.

The seats of 2017 Verso mid-grade models feature a new, high quality upholstery incorporating a red thread and back rests embossed with a red patch to match the new Tokyo Red body colour. In addition, a new 17-inch alloy wheel design featuring a machined face finish is available.

Avensis

The Toyota Avensis has firmly established its credentials as a strong and attractive market competitor since its launch in 2015. Built and designed in Europe, for Europeans, it offers prestigious, dynamic styling, rich sensory quality inside and out and, thanks to precision chassis and steering engineering, a rewarding experience behind the wheel.

In line with the other updated core models, the 2017 Avensis is available with the new Tokyo Red exterior colour and newly designed 18-inch with a machined face treatment.

The 2017 Model Year will be available across Europe from December.

Improved Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system

The Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system has been upgraded to the latest 2016 specification, which was unveiled at this year’s Geneva motor show. The centrally mounted seven-inch touchscreen now offers revised menu pages for accessing the system’s functions and, where the Toyota Touch 2 with Go is installed, for satellite navigation operation. Access to the My Toyota online customer portal has also been improved.Toyota Touch 2 with Go has been repackaged as single navigation offering for Auris, supplied as standard with three years* of free map updates and connection to online services. The on board connectivity gives easy access to live information services for fuel prices, weather, parking and traffic conditions local to programmed routes, helping with easier and more efficient journey planning. It also enables use of online information, entertainment and social media apps from Google Search, Google Streetview, Aupeo!, Aha and Twitter.

* According to market 

Retuned hybrid powertrain

Europe’s best-selling hybrid models benefit from powertrain retuning that delivers an enhanced natural driving experience with no compromise in their highly efficient performance. Toyota’s engineers have secured a closer alignment between the increase in engine and vehicle speeds, creating a more linear acceleration feel as the driver applies the throttle. 

New colour choices

Ensuring that Auris keeps on-trend, two new shades have been added to the exterior paint options: Platinum Bronze metallic following the trend for grey colours with a bronze hint and Solid Blue for the price conscious.Built exclusively at Toyota Manufacturing UK’s Burnaston factory, the new 2016 Auris Hatchback and Touring Sports are on sale now.

With the launch of the Auris Hybrid in 2010, Toyota became the first and only manufacturer to offer a choice of three powertrains in the C-segment. Today, in the face of limited and expensive competition, the broad Auris model range remains a unique proposition.

Toyota's full hybrid technology is now entirely established as a mainstream powertrain choice, and the Auris Hybrid's remarkably quiet, smooth, relaxed and stress-free driving experience has proved increasingly popular with C-segment customers.

The Hybrid model currently accounts for more than 50% of all Auris sales in Western Europe, a mix expected to grow further over the next few years. Since the hybrid powertrain was made available in the Auris range, more than 200,000 units have been sold, and today, the Auris is the best-selling hybrid in Europe.

The Auris Hybrid represents outstanding value for money. CO₂ emissions of just 79 g/km and combined cycle fuel economy of only 3.5 l/100 km offer customers significant tax incentives and exceptionally low running costs.

Reflecting both changes in this highly-competitive market and Toyota customer feedback, the 2015 Auris range features significant improvements in five key areas Design, Sensory Quality, the Hybrid model, Safety and -improving the model's segment coverage by some 40%- Powertrains.

An all-new, 1.2 litre, direct-injection turbocharged engine joins the existing petrol line-up. The 2.0 litre turbo diesel has been replaced by a new 1.6 litre D-4D unit, and the 1.4 litre D-4D engine has been substantially upgraded, offering best-in-class CO₂ emissions in the 90 hp category. Every engine in the range now meets Euro 6 emissions regulations.

New exterior styling features a redesigned front and rear, giving the Auris a more prestigious and sophisticated road presence. On board, the sensory quality of the cabin has been significantly enhanced through a redesigned dashboard, premium quality surface and trim elements, a 7" touch screen with capacitive switchgear and a new 4.2" colour TFT multi-information screen (as from Mid-grade and standard on Hybrid).

The 2015 Auris range further benefits from suspension and steering revisions designed to improve ride comfort, handling and driver involvement. And numerous measures have also been introduced to reduce the transmission of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) into the cabin.

Finally, the Auris grade structure has been revised to bring Hybrid grades -Entry, Mid, Style and High- into line with the rest of the model range.

ENCOUNTER

Toshio Kanei 

Project Director, Toyota European Projects

'Europe is an important testing ground for Toyota' says Kanei 'customers are demanding, and competition is tough. That is one of the main reasons for the increase in Toyota's activities in Europe, and the establishment of a European Projects division. That way, we can more accurately target the product improvements we want to make, so we can compete more strongly with our rivals — at first here in Europe itself, but ultimately anywhere in the world.' 

'This is especially true of the C-segment' considers Kanei, 'which is a very important and advanced segment here.'

'After we launched the second generation Auris in 2012, we analysed our product position against other OEMs, and gathered feedback from dealers and customers. We identified the strengths of the current product, but we also learned from our drivers where they saw opportunities for improvement -sensory quality for example.'

'In response, we established the Sensory Quality division in 2012, bringing the same engineering skill and attention to detail that we already devote to interior ergonomics and comfort to the visual, tactile and aural senses of the occupants.'

'Its role expanding with every new model, the SQ division has collaborated with both the designers and engineers on every aspect of the interior to ensure that we could make a big step forwards with the new Auris. And its painstaking work on every aspect of the interior -shape, colour, touch, illumination, font and character- has really paid off, raising interior ambience to unprecedented levels of visual quality, consistency and harmony.'

'We have also worked a great deal on the driveability of each powertrain' says Kanei. 'Most notably in the context of the new 1.6D-4D engine, and the all-new 1.2 turbo petrol unit developed by TMC specifically for this market. And we have improved dynamics to harmonise the new styling with a more sporting and refined driving experience.'

'The C-segment hatchback is a mainstream vehicle in Europe, and customer expectations are higher than in any other market certainly higher than in Japan or America. In Europe, good ride and handling is a must' Kanei believes. 'Driving speeds are high, and good stability and quick vehicle response to steering inputs are essential.'

'So, we feel that if we get this right for Europe it will be effective for all markets. In America they drive great distance along freeways, so they value straight line stability above all else. But even their requirements are now changing towards better, European-style handling.'

'Auris has an increasingly global relevance for Toyota' says Kanei. 'We sell it mainly in Europe, Japan and Australia, but considered the possibility of new markets with this car, including in the USA as the Scion iM, with models produced in Japan.'

'Of course, North American regulations are different, so we had to make revisions to meet their specific requirements. We also conducted focus group interviews in New York and Los Angeles to get a clearer understanding of American customer expectations and the direction we should take for the Scion version.'

'So, the body shape is the same, but there are bumper, lamp and aerodynamic part differences reflecting the more extravert direction preferred by the Scion customer. The dynamics, ride and handling, however, are taken straight from the Auris in Europe, and the American audience seems to be very pleased with that. That's just one example of how Toyota's European RandD know-how is starting to strengthen our products across the globe.'

NEW EXTERIOR DESIGN AND IMPROVED INTERIOR SENSORY QUALITY

• New, more prestigious and sophisticated exterior design
• Improved interior design with greater consistency, uniformity and sensory quality
• 4.2" multi-information TFT and 7" touch screens with fully integrated capacitive switchgear

The front and rear of the Auris have been comprehensively redesigned to give the vehicle a visually broader stance and lower centre of gravity, and a more prestigious, sophisticated road presence.

To the front, paired chrome wings are generated from the new, more prominent Toyota logo. Underscoring the front lip of the bonnet, the powerful upper wings run the full width of the car. The less prominent lower wings sweep down into the upper surface of the front bumper, holding the sharply-angled inside edge of new LED headlamp clusters which incorporate LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

LED lamps have numerous advantages over conventional bulbs they produce illumination closest to daylight on the Kelvin scale, they consume less energy than conventional bulbs, and they have a service life of up to 100,000 hours -almost the same as that of the vehicle itself.

Below a more prominent front bumper, the lower grille now runs the full width of the car, giving the Auris a broader, more purposeful stance. The grille has a narrow centre section underscored by a chrome accent to the lip spoiler, and then widens into deeper pods housing integral foglights located at the very extremities of the new design.

In profile, the new front and rear styling generates longer overhangs, improving the overall balance of the design and leading the eye in a long, sweeping line straight from the front Toyota logo to the rear lamp cluster. This more sophisticated profile is further enhanced by a new shark fin roof antenna and new, 16" and 17" alloy wheel designs.

To the rear, the lower half of the Auris has been completely redesigned to once again add visual emphasis to the vehicle's broad road stance. The width of a deeper, more muscular bumper design is emphasised by the placement of reflector lamp housings at the extremities, and underscored by a thin chrome trim line.

The rear lamp clusters now incorporate LED light guide technology, giving the new Auris a more prestigious, instantly identifiable light signature.

Improved Interior Sensory Quality

Toyota's European Sensory Quality Division has been fully involved in every visual, tactile and aural aspect of the new Auris' interior styling from the inception of the project, targeting the very highest standards of design required to meet discerning European customer expectations of harmony, balance and high visual quality.

With the three key goals of greater consistency, improved coherence and enhanced sensory quality, the interior of the new Auris has been significantly enriched through a reduction in the visual mass of the dashboard design, cleaner integration of more uniformly lit instrumentation, and a more consistent shape, finish and colour to grained surfaces and trim elements.

The driver's instrument binnacle now features a stronger, more sporting design with tubed tachometer and speedometer dials either side of a new 4.2" colour TFT multi-information screen.

Within a more curvaceous dashboard design featuring more consistent back-lit illumination, the centre stack instrumentation has been integrated into a single, smooth surface incorporating a 7" touch screen and touch-sensitive, capacitive switchgear. The upper surface and fascia of the dashboard itself are now finished in the same, soft-touch material with consistent colour and graining between surfaces.

Numerous detail elements such as the air vents, door handles and gearlever surround have been redesigned for a crisper, higher quality appearance. Both the shape and material of paint and chrome trim finishes throughout have been harmonised. New seat upholstery designs complete a more prestigious and sophisticated, premium quality cabin environment.

Two new exterior colours, Dark Blue Mica and Blue Metallic, are available for the new Auris.

ENCOUNTER

Mehmet Fatih Kale 

Senior Engineer, Sensory Quality, Body Design Division, Toyota Europe

'Sensory quality at Toyota is about how customers perceive the vehicle. When we sit in a car all our senses are judging the environment predominantly visual, tactile and aural...

The Sensory Quality team was established in 2012 to be the link between design and engineering. We're trying to bring the same depth of engineering logic that applies to ergonomics and occupant comfort to the field of sensory quality. And our role has recently been expanded, so we're now involved from the very beginning of the styling process, where the initial alignment of concept and feasibility ensures the best product execution.

We map the whole interior to highlight possible areas of concern and possible improvements to discuss with the designers and the chief engineer. Mapping is very important to us at the outset, to ensure we identify every single element that needs attention, so there is no drop in sensory quality with any single component.

In the specific context of Auris, although the interior quality of the previous generation car is very good, we wanted to improve cohesion between diverse elements, bringing consistency to the design language. A sense of coherence is a crucial quality for the European market, so our focus with new Auris has been to analyse how we can create harmony on board...

To that end, we established three main pillars for Auris: 

Firstly, to achieve consistency, we worked on aligning sections and matching decoration shapes for instance, linking door trim to instrument panel to console. Additionally, the steering wheel, instrument panel and air vent chrome trim was matched to give the same look, whilst the new piano black on the centre console matches that of the display audio system.

Secondly, to enhance coherence, we worked on improving colour consistency, with a focus on interior black elements. Dividing the interior into three groups -injection moulded parts, painted parts, and soft parts- we now have a colour measurement-based system. So, the colour of all interior parts has been fine tuned to create visual unity. 

Thirdly, to improve visual quality, we prioritised the instrument clusters of the driver's meter and centre console, which are the main visual elements from a driver's perspective. We designed clean and continuous surfaces by minimising split lines between elements, and removing them altogether wherever possible -such as between two adjacent panels of piano black- to create larger single elements. And this creates the same sort of visual harmony you get from, say, one piece of marble.

We removed all superfluous text from switchgear, and even, in the case of the clock adjustment for example, reduced the switchgear itself. And we adjusted instrument illumination by aligning all the blues from the different control panels together. Finally, we now use backlighting universally for greater visual uniformity. 

So, for instance, each position of the gear shift indicator used to be in a different colour now every position is white, turning to backlit colour only when you select it, providing a clean visual match with the rest of the IP and switchgear illumination.

In summary, then, aesthetics, consistency and attention to detail are the key aspects of our work in meeting European customer expectations of harmony, balance and high visual quality. And that's where our role fits so well between design and engineering focusing on each detail and bringing all these elements together to create harmony within the vehicle.

So, in the new Auris we have removed the silver paint finish and all metal decorations are now real chrome, which highlights the piano black finish beautifully and defines the technical zone. Also, we now have door, centre console armrests and seats all finished in leather, with the same grain and matching stitching, creating the comfort zone. All these elements combine to improve visual harmony.

Nobody likes to be unpleasantly surprised by a car interior, so it's very important to use a good combination between touch, shape and surface. If a part looks hard it must feel hard if it looks soft, it must feel soft if it's a metal finish, it must look metallic and feel cold to the touch... And there's the fundamental difference between animal and technical grain if you see technical grain, you expect it to feel hard to the touch, but all our experience of animal grain, for instance in furniture, says it must be soft to the touch. 

The involvement and responsibility of the Sensory Quality team is growing with each new Toyota coming to the European market, and our experience and expertise are growing simultaneously. I think, to sum up what our division has aimed to achieve with the Auris, I'd say 'High sensory quality in which the whole is more than the sum of the parts'.

IMPROVED DRIVING DYNAMICS AND NVH

• Front and rear suspension revisions for improved roll damping and straight-line ride comfort
• Revised Electric Power Steering (EPS) for better feel and improved feedback
• Improved NVH measures for an even quieter driving experience

The new Auris range benefits from suspension and steering revisions designed to improve ride comfort and handling. Numerous measures have also been introduced to reduce the transmission of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) into the cabin.

Components of the front MacPherson strut suspension have been revised, including the design of the coil spring and the spring rate itself, the shock absorber, upper insulator, bound stopper and stabiliser bush.

Lateral force-reducing springs achieve a smoother stroke for enhanced ride comfort, whilst the optimisation of shock absorber damping force response promotes further improvements to ride comfort, handling and stability.

The new Auris features either a double wishbone or torsion beam rear suspension system. The double wishbone system equips all 1.2 litre turbo, 1.6 litre petrol, 1.6 litre diesel and full hybrid models. 1.33 litre petrol and 1.4 litre diesel engine models feature torsion beam rear suspension. Both systems benefit from enhanced damping force response for improved ride comfort under all driving conditions.

In combination, these front and rear suspension revisions improve initial roll damping, minimise friction and enhance straight-line comfort with a smoother ride over bumps.

In addition, the mapping of the Auris' Electric Power Steering (EPS) has been tuned to not only improve steering feel from the neutral position, but also to further build steering weight as vehicle speeds rise, giving improved feedback above speeds of 60-80 km/h.

Enhanced NVH measures

New sound management measures targeting engine and high speed wind noise have resulted in marked NVH improvements, ensuring that the new Auris' more comfortable ride is complimented by a noticeably quieter cabin.

Soundproofing has been enhanced through the adoption of additional sound absorption materials within the cowl outer silencer, the instrument panel and the transmission tunnel. An outer tunnel silencer has also been added to minimise transmission noise.

Additional sealing in the front fender, dashboard inner silencer and door area further reduces the transmission of engine, road and wind noise into the cabin.

ENCOUNTER

JAN LYSEN

Manager, Toyota Europe Marketing Management

'In order to grow Toyota sales, we want to find more customers who have not driven one of our cars before, and hybrid plays the lead role in this plan' says Lysen. 'For them, we want a very strong proposition, and Hybrid fits the bill beautifully.'

'We already know from the current generation Auris that the hybrid experience attracts customers to the Toyota brand' says Lysen. 'The Hybrid model currently accounts for half of all Auris sales in Europe. It is now the most sold Hybrid in Europe ahead of Yaris.'

'However, we still want to increase Auris sales further and have a big job to do in getting the hybrid out to the consumers and getting them to experience how good the driving experience makes them feel. To a lot of people outside the industry, this is still a new technology' considers Lysen. 'This is not a conventional petrol or diesel, this is something different. Remember, many people are still daunted by their first experience of driving a car with automatic transmission...'

'The hybrid proposition is about how the car drives' says Lysen, 'with fuel economy and CO₂ a secondary part of the proposition. The combination of automatic transmission and the electric motor gives easy, relaxed, feel-good driving which fits very well with today's congested traffic environment.' 

'We call it intuitive, responsive and quiet' he adds. 'Hassle-free stop start driving the uniqueness of which, once they have experienced it, everybody immediately understands.'

'So, key for us with the launch of the new Auris is challenging our retailers and ourselves to ensure that as many people as possible try the Hybrid. If you haven't experienced the driving experience first-hand you just won't get the whole hybrid idea...'

'Of course, the hybrid is our unique proposition, the thing that gets us noticed' says Lysen. 'But for those who are attracted to Toyota and the Auris and wish to opt for a more traditional powertrain, we now have the new 1.2 litre turbo and 1.6 litre diesel options.'

'If you start splitting the engines and their demand very mathematically, by horsepower or capacity, we have not been in these horsepower bands within this segment before. With these two new engines, our offer is much more spot on for where the majority of demand is, and we will improve our model segment coverage by some 40%.'

REVISED POWERTRAIN LINE-UP

•  1.8 litre full hybrid powertrain with class-leading CO₂ emissions now as low as 79 g/km, 3.5 l/100 km average fuel consumption and lower Total Cost of Ownership
•  All-new, direct injection, 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine combining impressive performance with 4.6 l/100 km and 106 g/km
• New, Euro 6-compliant 1.6D-4D and uprated 1.4D-4D tubodiesels

Reflecting changing trends in the C-segment market which call for further reductions in fuel consumption, emissions and cost of ownership without detriment to performance or driving pleasure, the Auris full hybrid, petrol and diesel powertrain line-up has been both extended and extensively revised.

Every engine in the range now meets Euro 6 emissions regulations.

The 1.2T, an all-new, direct-injection turbocharged engine joins the existing 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i and 1.6 litre Valvematic units to offer customers an expanded choice of three petrol engines. The 2.0 litre turbo diesel has been replaced by a new 1.6 litre D-4D unit, and the 1.4 litre D-4D engine has been substantially upgraded.

A 1.8 litre hybrid powertrain completes one of the broadest ranges of engine choice offered by any model in this segment. Combining a uniquely intuitive and engaging driving experience with class-leading CO₂ emissions now as low as 79 g/km, Toyota's full hybrid technology, which already accounts for more than 50% of European Auris sales in 2014⁽¹⁾, is now entirely established as a mainstream proposition.

Every powertrain in the Auris engine line-up offers customers the benefits of Toyota Optimal Drive a combination of wide-ranging advanced technologies and internal improvement programmes designed to optimise the balance of performance and driving enjoyment with fuel economy and low emissions.

Lower Full Hybrid System Emissions

Further lowering Total Cost of Ownership, the new Auris Hybrid now combines an average fuel consumption of just 3.5 l/100 km with class-leading, highly tax-efficient CO₂ emissions figures as low as a remarkable 79 g/km in the European homologation combined cycle.

Toyota's full hybrid technology offers customers a uniquely quiet, relaxing and entirely intuitive driving experience. Of particular note are the highly responsive performance offered by the combination of petrol engine and electric motor when accelerating from a standstill, overtaking or changing lanes a completely seamless gearchange and system restart for stress-free driving in traffic congestion and the exceptionally quiet running of the hybrid system when operating under electric motor power alone, from start up and at speeds up to 70 km/h.

Capable of operating both independently and in combination, the HSD system's 1.8 litre VVT-i petrol engine and electric motor generate a maximum power output of 136 DIN hp, equipping the Auris Hybrid with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 10.9 seconds and a maximum speed of 180 km/h.

The Auris Hybrid generates virtually no NOx and Particulate Matter emissions. Moreover, when operating in the unique, switchable EV mode not available to mild hybrid vehicles, it generates zero CO₂, NOx and particulate emissions, driving for up to two kilometres continuously at speeds of up to about 50 km/h, dependant on battery charge and driving conditions.

The Auris Hybrid's powertrain is designed to eliminate the need for the petrol engine as often as possible during city driving. Toyota's own data show that the cumulative effect of full hybrid operation leads to high proportions of zero-emissions driving.

1.2T: an all-new direct injection Turbo Petrol Engine

The all-new 1,197cc, 16 valve, 4-cylinder, direct-injection turbo petrol engine offers a level of performance similar to that of a 1.6 litre engine, while its fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are perceptibly lower.

The lightweight, highly compact unit features numerous sophisticated technologies, including direct injection, enhanced Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVT-iW⁽²⁾), a high tumble port cylinder head with an integrated exhaust manifold, a lightweight valve train system, a variable control oil jet system and a resin intake manifold and intake pipes.

The turbo, direct-injection allowing multiple injections, and the newly developed VVT-iW⁽²⁾ work hand in hand to provide high torque at low revs, strong performance and low fuel consumption.

The new engine has a maximum power output of 116 DIN hp, and develops an impressive maximum torque of 185 Nm from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, this equips the new Auris 1.2 with a highly competitive 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 10.1 seconds, and a top speed of 200 km/h.

At the same time, the new engine returns average fuel consumption figures of 4.7 l/100 km, and generates CO₂ emission of only 109 g/km, offering customers considerable cost of ownership benefits. Multidrive S transmission further reduces both fuel consumption and emissions, to 4.6 l/100 km and 106 g/km respectively.

New 1.6D-4D 

Making its first appearance in the Auris range, an all-new, 1,598 cc turbodiesel replaces the outgoing 2.0 litre unit, matching customer powertrain demands at the heart of the segment.

The new engine develops 112 DIN hp and maximum torque of 270 Nm between 1,750 and 2,250 rpm. This equips the Auris 1.6D-4D with highly class-competitive performance figures of 0-100 km/h in 10.5 seconds, 80-120 km/h (in 5^th gear) in 10.9 seconds, and a top speed of 190 km/h.

Conversely, CO₂ emissions are markedly lower than those of the outgoing 2.0 litre unit, falling to just 104 g/km, and average fuel consumption is now only 4.1 l/100 km. Auris 1.6D-4D cost of ownership is further reduced by a new service scheme featuring a 20,000 km service interval.

Uprated 1.4D-4D

The 1,364 cc turbodiesel has been upgraded to be Euro 6 compliant, but the changes go significantly further than that.

The unit features numerous enhancements to both improve performance and lower emissions. A new, smaller turbocharger reduces friction in the turbine shaft by 20%, and improves efficiency by generating a higher boost pressure at low engine speeds.

A new solenoid fuel injection system features a larger supply pump and higher common-rail injection pressures of 180 Mpa, making it compatible with the Euro 6 engine's ECU and software. A NOx Storage Reduction (NSR) catalyst has been adopted within the exhaust system to meet the Euro 6 requirement for a 55% reduction in NOx.

A new piston design with an open chamber combustion bowl improves fuel economy by 3.4%. The new pistons feature a Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) coating which reduces friction to lower fuel consumption.

A new cylinder head cover is now fabricated in plastic for a 40% reduction in weight, and offers improvements to both camshaft lubrication and oil capture performance.

The uprated engine develops 66 kW / 90 DIN hp. The breadth of torque generation has been expanded 400 rpm lower down the rev range, with a maximum 205 Nm now available from only 1,400 rpm, up to 2,800 rpm. The Auris 1.4D-4D will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 12.5 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 180 km/h.

Equipped with a manual transmission and Stop & Start technology, the improved 1.4D-4D unit now returns combined cycle fuel consumption of 3.4 l/100 km and benefits from a substantial reduction in CO₂ emissions to only 89 g/km.

Multidrive S Continuously-Variable Transmission

Available on 1.2 turbo and 1.6 Valvematic petrol versions of the Auris, Multidrive S is a continuously-variable transmission (CVT) featuring both fully-automatic seamless shift and sequential, stepped 7-speed Sport modes.

In Sport mode, the system is optimised for response and direct engine control, and the transmission step position can be selected by either gear lever or shift paddle. Sport mode also features precise cornering control. On detecting deceleration, the system downshifts and applies engine braking to assist braking force. On exiting a corner, predictive downshift logic controls the system to ensure the optimal gear ratio is selected for the required level of acceleration.

1 2014 Europe sales = EU 28 + 3 EFTA countries (Switzerland, Norway and Iceland)

2 Variable Valve Timing Intelligent Wide

ENCOUNTER

JENS BRECH 

Senior Manager, Toyota Europe Product Planning

'The main target of the European Product Planning department is to help ensure that the development of every new model meets discerning European customer expectations' says Brech.'

'In the case of the new Auris, that relates to exterior and interior styling, sensory quality, driving performance and, of course, safety, with the new Toyota Safety Sense package. Our role is to bring all these elements together to make the best possible product for the European market.'

'We wanted to maintain our current strengths, such as design and the hybrid powertrain' says Brech. 'So we took the original design, function, specification and safety targets for the current Auris and, driven by customer feedback, have improved on key areas such as sensory quality and advanced specifications.'

'One of the most important and immediately noticeable aspects of the new Auris is the major improvements we've made in both the design and sensory quality of the interior. Our aim was to strengthen the connection between our really sporting and dynamic styling of the exterior and the new, premium-status interior.'

'So, in conjunction with a comprehensive upgrading of materials and finishes, we now offer customers a new, double-layer cockpit with a high quality display audio system featuring capacitive buttons fully integrated within the centre stack. This full flush integrated centre display is attended by meters in a new sporty tube design including a 4.2 inch colour TFT screen to support the driver with all relevant information. The side air vents have been improved and now look far more stylish. And we have also improved the connection of the centre console to the centre stack which gives a stronger, clearer and visible driver-oriented emphasis. 

'We've also incorporated many advanced specification details throughout the car' adds Brech, 'such as the shark fin antenna, bezel-less parking sensors, LED headlamps and tail lights with lightguide technology, and new designed 17" machine faced alloy wheels... Specifications that are normally only found in higher segment vehicles, that we are now offering on Auris.'

'When it comes to powertrains, Toyota's perspective is obviously a little different' considers Brech, 'because Auris is unique in the segment for its affordable hybrid, which accounts for more than 50% of model sales. But, to be competitive, we still need to be in the heart of a market driven by fuel costs and CO₂ emissions with our other powertrains hence the small-displacement, 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine and a better 1.6D-4D litre unit, both positioned now in the centre of the segment.

'Auris is the first Toyota to feature the 1.2 litre turbo. We needed to offer our customers an engine with very good CO₂ figures, and this is something that can usually only be delivered with the help of turbocharging, which also has the benefit of not compromising on performance. Actually, compared to the 1.6 litre petrol unit, the 1.2 turbo has a better performance in terms of both acceleration and elasticity, has the same top speed, and yet offers a sizeable 29 g/km reduction in CO₂ emissions.'

'The diesel is also at the heart of the market but, once again in the interests of economy and emissions, is now in a smaller, 1.6 litre format.'

'Finally' adds Brech, 'safety was also one of the areas in which we needed to be more competitive, hence the arrival of Toyota Safety Sense. Combining a wide range of active, passive and preventive safety features encompassing everything from an urban-friendly Pre-Collision System to Lane Departure Alert, it offers Auris customers one of the most comprehensive and technologically advanced safety packages in the segment.'

TOYOTA SAFETY SENSE

•  Active Safety Technologies designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions
•  Pre-Collision System and Lane Departure Alert
•  Automatic High Beam and Road Sign Assist systems

Committed to achieving a safe mobility society, Toyota believes it is important to promote an approach which involves people, vehicles, and the traffic environment, as well as the pursuit of "real-world safety" by learning from accidents and incorporating that knowledge into vehicle development.

This year, Toyota is launching 'Toyota Safety Sense', a newly developed set of active safety technologies designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions across a wide range of traffic situations.

All Auris equipped with Toyota Safety Sense will feature a Pre-Collision System⁽¹⁾ (PCS) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA). To further enhance safety as well as driver convenience, Auris will also feature Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Road Sign Assist (RSA) systems.

Between speeds of approximately 10 km/h to 80 km/h, Pre-Collision System detects vehicles in front and reduces the risk of hitting them from the back. When there is a possibility of a collision it prompts the driver to brake with an audible and visual alert. PCS also primes the brake system to deliver extra stopping force when the driver presses the brake pedal. If the driver fails to react in time, the system automatically applies the brakes, reducing speed by approximately 30 km/h⁽²⁾or even bringing the car to a complete stop, in order to prevent the collision or mitigate the force of impact.

The Lane Departure Alert system monitors lane markings and helps prevent accidents and head-on collisions caused by leaving lanes. If the vehicle starts to deviate from the lane without the indicators having been engaged, LDA warns the driver with an audible and visual alert.

Automatic High Beam helps ensure excellent forward visibility during night-time driving. It detects both the headlights of oncoming vehicles and the tail lights of preceding vehicles, automatically switching between high and low beams to avoid dazzling other drivers. By using high beams more frequently the system enables earlier detection of pedestrians and obstacles.

Road Sign Assist supports drivers by ensuring they always have the best possible information, even if they have, perhaps, overlooked a road sign. It identifies traffic signage such as speed limit and no overtaking. System status and alert information is displayed to the driver on the instrument colour TFT multi-information screen. In case of speed limits, the system gives a visual and audible alert should the driver exceed the posted limit.

Thanks to the Toyota Safety Sense system reducing the risk of being involved in traffic accidents, drivers of the new Auris may benefit from lower insurance costs⁽³⁾ or a more advantageous insurance reclassification⁽³⁾.

The new safety pack will initially be made available on the new Auris and new Avensis ranges, as well as on AYGO and Yaris. Depending on the model and on the market, Toyota Safety Sense will be offered as standard, or at a competitive price.

"By the end of 2015, up to 70% of European Toyota buyers will be able to spec their car with Toyota Safety Sense", says Didier Leroy, Chairman, Toyota Motor Europe. "It is only when safety systems are in widespread use that they can have a real impact on the elimination of traffic accidents and fatalities. That's why Toyota has decided to launch the democratisation of advanced safety technologies in its cars"

¹ Technical name: Pre-Crash System

² Results achieved during testing using a vehicle travelling at 30 km/h and a stationary vehicle system operation depends on driving environment (incl. road and weather) and vehicle circumstances.

³ Market dependant

ENCOUNTER

TJARK KREUZINGER 

Senior Manager, Safety Research and Technical Affairs

'Toyota's global vision for automotive safety hinges on the safest and most responsible way of moving people' says Kreuzinger. 'We have always considered our work within a three part initiative people, the traffic environment and vehicles.' 

'We think it is essential that people are educated and aware of the importance of safety in traffic that the traffic environment is set up in a way that supports safe driving and because, of course, we are a manufacturer, we not only ensure our vehicles meet current safety regulations but also keep developing passive and active safety to go beyond existing safety standards.'

'Real-world safety can only be achieved if, firstly, we understand why accidents happen and what the consequences of those accidents are' Kreuzinger believes. 'We call this the pursuit of real-world safety.'

'Next we go to the second step, which is to evaluate what happens to a car in an accident, then work on improvements to both avoid the accident and also mitigate the effects of the crash.'

'Then the third step is the development and testing of our efforts to see if they are successful. With every new generation of cars we go through this cycle again.'

'We have achieved a great deal in the area of passive safety over the last 20 years better seat belts, airbags, stronger bodyshell compartments, more robust seats, more effective front and rear crumple zones... Obviously there is still more work to be done, but since the arrival of ABS and ESC, the focus has very much switched to active safety.'

'You could say that the introduction of ABS was the first step in preventive safety reducing the risk of, or even preventing, an accident. Our work, then, is moving more and more towards trying to avoid the accident in the first place.'

'We see this move in focus towards active and preventive safety with changes at Euro NCAP as well the way they test the vehicles, the introduction of new tests to cater for new technologies, and the changes to the scoring system are all designed to encourage manufacturers to further investigate active safety features.'

'Since 2009, Euro NCAP has created a 4 box approach' Kreuzinger explains. 'The first concerns adult occupancy, which is what Euro NCAP was primarily about before 2009. The second is child safety - ISOFIX systems, etc. The third is pedestrian safety -the head, leg and hip impacts of adults and children. Initially, the fourth box was merely concerned with a seat belt reminder and stability control, but it now includes more 'Driver Assistance Systems', and already assesses lane departure Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Automated Emergency Braking Systems (AEB). We appreciate that Euro NCAP is considering the evolution of safety developments in their testing program.'

'Toyota was, in fact, the first car manufacturer in the world to have a radar-based FCW, which we called our pre-crash safety system, back in 2002' Kreuzinger recalls. 'And that's because we understood very early in our safety development work that this was a critical element in increasing road safety, since we already knew that three-quarters of traffic accidents were caused by driver inattention.'

'Indeed, the majority of accidents are still caused by a driver's misperception, inattention or inappropriate reaction to a situation' Kreuzinger continues. 'In line with this philosophy, and knowing that the majority of drivers can react properly when they are alerted, an audible and visual warning is usually enough to allow them to take the correct action.'

'It can be noted that Toyota has not focused on low speed AEB systems, because they tend not to involve serious occupant injury. Modern cars are designed to absorb such impacts without harm coming to passengers.'

'Now, with the Toyota Safety Sense system we have our uniquely affordable AEB technology, which works at higher vehicle speeds. We have the technology and we'll use it.' 

'The affordability of Toyota Safety Sense is extremely significant to the wider picture, because only when such safety systems are in widespread use they can have a real impact on the reducing number and consequences of traffic accidents.'

'As to the future, it is possible to foresee a time, particularly with the growth of automated motoring, when the number of traffic accidents might fall to literally zero' says Kreuzinger. 'And this is fully in line with the Toyota Way to always aim for a Vision, which we will continue to work for, no matter how challenging it may be' 

'Of course, where technology is involved, there will always be a realistic limit. With the growth of automated driving, however, I think that we should target safety levels equivalent to those of railways.'

1.2T Engine 

More for less

The 1.2T, an all-new direct injection turbo-charged petrol engine, makes its global debut in the New Auris. It belongs to the range of 14 new engines that Toyota will launch globally between April 2014 and the end of 2015.

In April of last year, Toyota announced its plans to introduce a series of newly-developed, highly fuel efficient engines, applying several combustion and loss-reduction technologies that until then had been reserved for hybrid engines. The new 4-cylinder 1.2T engine is the second engine from this family to come to Europe under the Toyota brand, after the 3-cylinder 1.0 engine that went on sale in AYGO and Yaris last year. Like the 1.0, the 1.2T uses advanced technologies that allow the engine to change from the Otto-cycle to the Atkinson cycle under low loads, it has vertical vortex high tumble air flow intake ports, an exhaust manifold integrated in the cylinder-head and advanced heat management.

To this, the 1.2T adds a direct injection system, as well as a water-cooled turbo and heat-exchanger. Furthermore, the VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing — intelligent) system known from the 1.0, is upgraded to a VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent Wide) system, which allows even more flexibility in the valve-timing.

The combination of these technologies results in outstanding performance and efficiency. For a displacement of 1197cc, the engine delivers 116 DIN hp (85kW) and a constant torque of 185Nm between 1500 and 4000 rpm. It will push the New Auris, the first model to which it is applied, from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.1 seconds. 5th gear acceleration from 80 to 120km/h takes just 13.7 seconds, and the top speed is set at 200 km/h. All of this is achieved despite a strong focus on fuel consumption and CO₂ — the car achieves 4.7l/100 km on the combined cycle, and delivers just 109g/km of CO₂.

Better performance for lower consumption

The key to achieving outstanding fuel consumption without compromising performance, is to apply a higher compression. But generally, as the compression increases, so does the risk of uncontrolled combustion, also known as knocking.

The 1.2T's high compression ratio of 10:1 was made possible thanks to the adoption of a series of key technologies that improve control over the combustion process. That way, the risk of knocking could be avoided.

First of all, the intake ports have been designed to generate a more intense flow and a 'vertical vortex', and also the shape of the piston has been optimized to improve in-cylinder turbulence. As a result, fuel and intake air mix faster, and a more homogeneous mixture is formed. This leads to a higher combustion speed — which helps prevent knocking.

Advanced heat-management is in itself a great way to improve fuel economy, but it is also another way of reducing the risk of knocking. The engine was designed in such a way, that the temperature of each individual part can be optimized. For example, the bottom of the pistons is cooled by oil-jets and the cooling of the cylinder head is separated from that of the engine block. This allows to reduce the temperature in the combustion chamber, whilst keeping the block itself hot enough to reduce friction.

Direct injection contributes as well, as it helps to dissipate the heat in the combustion chamber. And the charge air passes through the intercooler, which uses an independent low temperature cooling circuit.

Low-end torque and quick response 

A low-inertia turbocharger, the VVT-iW valve system and the D-4T direct injection system work hand in hand to ensure excellent torque delivery from the lowest engine speeds. Together with the limited volume intake system, this ensures an immediate response to the accelerator pedal.

The injection system has been newly developed for the 1.2T engine. Compact in design, it is perfect for utilisation in a small displacement engine. It allows multiple injections per cycle, and the optimized width and reduced length of the fuel spray ensure the quality of the combustion, regardless of the engine regime and load.

From Otto to Atkinson 

The VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent) system operates on both the intake and the exhaust side, and allows maximizing torque at all engine speeds. In addition, the new VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent Wide) allows for the intake valve closing to be delayed, which means that the engine can operate in both the Otto and the Atkinson cycle. The latter is used in extremely low load conditions, when the intake valve remains open for a fraction of time, after the compression stroke has set in, allowing part of the gas charge to be pushed back into the intake. As a result, the effective compression stroke is shortened. Pumping losses are reduced, since the pressure on the piston is lower, and also the throttle valve can be opened wider.

Quick and smooth Stop & Start 

A new start control was developed to ensure a quick and smooth engine restart. When the system shuts down the engine, it controls the stop position to leave the piston half way in the compression stroke. Then, upon restart, it applies stratified injection in the first compressed cylinder to counter vibrations. And by retarding the ignition, torque increase is kept in check, preventing the engine from revving excessively, hence ensuring a confident and tranquil take-off.

To this, the 1.2T adds a direct injection system, as well as a water-cooled turbo and heat-exchanger. Furthermore, the VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing — intelligent) system known from the 1.0, is upgraded to a VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent Wide) system, which allows even more flexibility in the valve-timing.

The combination of these technologies results in outstanding performance and efficiency. For a displacement of 1197cc, the engine delivers 116 DIN hp (85kW) and a constant torque of 185Nm between 1500 and 4000 rpm. It will push the New Auris, the first model to which it is applied, from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.1 seconds. 5^th gear acceleration from 80 to 120km/h takes just 13.7 seconds, and the top speed is set at 200 km/h. All of this is achieved despite a strong focus on fuel consumption and CO₂ — the car achieves 4.7l/100 km* on the combined cycle, and delivers just 109g/km* of CO₂.

Better performance for lower consumption

The key to achieving outstanding fuel consumption without compromising performance, is to apply a higher compression. But generally, as the compression increases, so does the risk of uncontrolled combustion, also known as knocking.

The 1.2T's high compression ratio of 10:1 was made possible thanks to the adoption of a series of key technologies that improve control over the combustion process. That way, the risk of knocking could be avoided.

First of all, the intake ports have been designed to generate a more intense flow and a 'vertical vortex', and also the shape of the piston has been optimized to improve in-cylinder turbulence. As a result, fuel and intake air mix faster, and a more homogeneous mixture is formed. This leads to a higher combustion speed — which helps prevent knocking.

Advanced heat-management is in itself a great way to improve fuel economy, but it is also another way of reducing the risk of knocking. The engine was designed in such a way, that the temperature of each individual part can be optimized. For example, the bottom of the pistons is cooled by oil-jets and the cooling of the cylinder head is separated from that of the engine block. This allows to reduce the temperature in the combustion chamber, whilst keeping the block itself hot enough to reduce friction.

Direct injection contributes as well, as it helps to dissipate the heat in the combustion chamber. And the charge air passes through the intercooler, which uses an independent low temperature cooling circuit.

Low-end torque and quick response 

A low-inertia turbocharger, the VVT-iW valve system and the D-4T direct injection system work hand in hand to ensure excellent torque delivery from the lowest engine speeds. Together with the limited volume intake system, this ensures an immediate response to the accelerator pedal.

The injection system has been newly developed for the 1.2T engine. Compact in design, it is perfect for utilisation in a small displacement engine. It allows multiple injections per cycle, and the optimized width and reduced length of the fuel spray ensure the quality of the combustion, regardless of the engine regime and load.

From Otto to Atkinson 

The VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent) system operates on both the intake and the exhaust side, and allows maximizing torque at all engine speeds. In addition, the new VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing - intelligent Wide) allows for the intake valve closing to be delayed, which means that the engine can operate in both the Otto and the Atkinson cycle. The latter is used in extremely low load conditions, when the intake valve remains open for a fraction of time, after the compression stroke has set in, allowing part of the gas charge to be pushed back into the intake. As a result, the effective compression stroke is shortened. Pumping losses are reduced, since the pressure on the piston is lower, and also the throttle valve can be opened wider.

Quick and smooth Stop & Start 

A new start control was developed to ensure a quick and smooth engine restart. When the system shuts down the engine, it controls the stop position to leave the piston half way in the compression stroke. Then, upon restart, it applies stratified injection in the first compressed cylinder to counter vibrations. And by retarding the ignition, torque increase is kept in check, preventing the engine from revving excessively, hence ensuring a confident and tranquil take-off.

*Subject to final homologation

The new Toyota Auris brings a design that adds stance and prestige, an upgraded cabin, and new comfort and safety equipment.

The Hybrid remains at the heart of the new Toyota Auris, having become the single most important powertrain in the line-up and accounting for half of all Auris sales in 2014. But the new Toyota Auris also heralds the arrival of a new petrol and diesel line-up, focusing on efficiency and performance, and guaranteeing a perfect solution regardless of which engine type the customer prefers.

Following the launch of the AYGO and Yaris last year, the simultaneous reveal of the new Toyota Auris and Avensis completes Toyota's full core model rejuvenation for Europe. Auris and Avensis will be built side by side in Toyota's manufacturing plant in Burnaston, UK.

The Toyota Press Conference at the Geneva Motor Show will take place at 12:15 on March 3rd, in Hall 4.