The fact that ‘rational’ is the eighth word in a press pack running to more than 5,300 words about the new Toyota Auris speaks volumes about this car.

Hard on its heels in the chunky blurb are the holy trinity of family motoring – quality, durability and reliability.

And if we were talking about the old model, those few words would pretty neatly sum up the appeal of the Auris in its entirety. Rock-solid reliable, but a little dull.

The new model has added an element that has never been part of the Auris make-up in the past – emotion.

That’s clear the moment you see it in the car park. Sleeker looks and a more confident stance instantly create a greater connection with the car.

That appeal to the heart, as well as the head, only grows when you get to drive it. Though the Auris is still clearly designed as a quiet, comfortable spacious family car, there is much more to love about this streamlined, five-door hatchback as a driver’s car.

Designed primarily for sales in Europe and built in Derbyshire, with its lower roofline it looks the part and on the move it is simply more fun.

With a lower centre of gravity, it has much improved handling, high-speed stability and ride comfort.

The test model was linked to the continuously variable Multidrive S transmission, giving the choice of a fully-automatic seamless shift mode, or a sequential, stepped seven-speed sport mode.

Toyota claims almost 50mpg in a day-to-day use from the 1.6-litre engine but I could only nudge close to 40. From front to back, the car has been improved.

Inside, the new, more comfortable seats have a lower hip point, longer travel and greater height adjustment. In the boot, luggage space has been increased.

The instrument layout is clear and simple, but the level of technology packed in is premium grade. The test model, in top-of-the-range Excel trim, wanted for nothing. From twin-setting, heated front seats to a rear colour parking camera, cruise control and satellite navigation, to a system that automatically parallel parks the car, the level of equipment is truly executive class.

Soft touch materials feature on the instrument panel’s upper surface and the door trim shoulder areas, and the A-pillars are fabric trimmed. The gear knob has a new design and the steering wheel is wrapped in leather. The Excel grade seats are finished in black velour with leather bolsters.

Standard features on all versions include seven airbags, air conditioning, follow-me-home headlights, hill-start assist control, vehicle stability control and LED daytime running lights.

Like its predecessor, the Auris remains a worthy, willing workhorse. But do not confuse a rational choice for a dull one.

 

Auto facts Toyota Auris Excel 1.6 CVT
 

  • Price: £20,245
  • Ins group: 14 (1-50)
  • Fuel consumption: (Combined): 48.7mpg
  • Top speed: 118mph
  • Length: 427.5cm/168.3in
  • Width: 176cm/69.3in
  • Luggage capacity: 13.7 cu ft
  • Fuel tank capacity: 11 gallons/50ltrs
  • CO2 emissions: 136g/km
  • Warranty: 5 yrs/ 100,000 miles