Geneva Motor Show 2018: Next-gen Toyota Auris breaks cover

The new Toyota Auris has been launched at the Geneva Motor Show, with a new 2.0-litre petrol hybrid system and sportier styling. Prices will start in the region of £20,000 when the 2018 Auris goes on sale in the summer.

Under the bonnet, the third-gen Toyota Auris is offered with a 100PS 1.2 petrol engine and choice of two hybrids. The 120PS 1.8-litre petrol hybrid from the old car is carried over and offered alongside a new 2.0 petrol hybrid with 177PS. 

The 1.4 diesel has been axed from the range, with Toyota indicating that its future models will no longer be offered with diesel-power.

The new 2.0-litre hybrid will offer drivers an ‘energised drive’ according to Toyota, with more power and steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for a more dynamic, engaging experience. It will also debut Toyota’s new CVT gearbox, with a launch gear that should improve transmission efficiency at lower speeds.

Longer and lower than its predecessor, the new 2018 Auris will cut a sleeker shape on the road too, thanks to its longer bonnet and new roofline that is 47mm lower compared to the outgoing model. The rear is also more rounded, with all-LED light clusters and a larger bumper.

As before, the new Auris will be built in the UK at Toyota’s Burnaston factory in Derbyshire while the plant in Deeside, North Wales will continue to be its main source for its engines in Europe. The third-gen Auris is expected to reflect the £20,000 starting point of the old model and will go on sale in mid-2018.