Another underrated Toyota Auris? (2012 - 2018 Mk2 Review)

Summary

In this review, the 2015 Toyota Auris Touring Sports, a second-generation model known for its estate or station wagon body, is explored. Launched in 2013, it boasts a lighter steering and a simple clutch, making it easy to drive. The car's design is considered an improvement over the hatchback version, with more rear space. The Auris is praised for its reliability, as evidenced by owner Janice's experience with no major issues over 85,000 miles. The interior is modern but less playful than its predecessor. The car offers a comfortable ride with improved rigidity and lowered NVH. The 1.4 D-4D diesel engine provides decent torque, and as a UK-built car, it supports the local economy. Safety features include a five-star Euro NCAP rating and seven airbags. The Auris is an improved version of its predecessor, offering a relaxing and comfortable driving experience.

Takeaways

• 🚗 The 2015 Toyota Auris Touring Sports is an estate or station wagon version of the second-generation Toyota Auris, which came out in 2012, with the Touring Sports following in 2013.
• 🌟 Named Auris after 'Aurum,' the Latin word for gold, reflecting Toyota's aspiration for the model's value and quality.
• 🔧 The Mk2 Auris has been succeeded by the new Corolla, marking a decade of the model's existence and evolution.
• 🕹️ The car features incredibly light steering, making it very easy to drive, and a smooth clutch engagement.
• 📏 The Touring Sports model offers more rear space compared to the regular Auris hatchback, enhancing its practicality.
• 🚍 The vehicle's exterior design is considered an improvement over the standard Auris, with a more appealing shape.
• 🛠️ Toyota's reputation for reliability is underscored by the owner's experience of no significant issues over 85,000 miles.
• 💺 The interior of the Mk2 Auris has been modernized compared to the Mk1, with a more sensible and less playful design.
• ⚙️ The car's body rigidity, center of gravity, refinement, and comfort have been improved over the Mk1, contributing to a more comfortable ride.
• 🌱 The 1.4 D-4D diesel engine provides good torque despite its small size, and the hybrid version is based on the same platform as the Prius and Lexus CT.
• 💨 The car's road tax in the UK is very low at £20 a year, and it offers excellent fuel economy, making it an affordable option to run.

Q & A

What is the 2015 Toyota Auris Touring Sports also known as?

It is also known as an estate or station wagon.

When was the second generation of Toyota Auris released?

The second generation of Toyota Auris was released in 2012, with the Touring Sports variant coming out in 2013.

What is the origin of the name 'Auris'?

The name 'Auris' is derived from 'Aurum,' the Latin word for gold.

What has replaced the Toyota Auris Mk2?

The Toyota Corolla has replaced the Auris Mk2.

How does the steering feel in the Toyota Auris Touring Sports?

The steering is described as very light, easy to drive, and can be steered with one finger.

What is the main difference between the Touring Sports and the regular Auris hatchback?

The Touring Sports is stretched out to provide more space in the back compared to the regular Auris hatchback.

What is the owner's experience with the Toyota Auris Mk2 over five years and 85,000 miles?

The owner, Janice, has had no significant issues with the car, which is consistent with Toyota's reputation for reliability.

What improvements were made from the Mk1 to the Mk2 Auris in terms of body rigidity and comfort?

Toyota improved the rigidity of the body, lowered the center of gravity, increased refinement and comfort, and lowered NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) in the Mk2 Auris.

What trim level is the reviewed car and what features does it include?

The reviewed car is the mid-level 'Icon' trim, which includes a touchscreen, reversing camera, and heated seats.

What type of engine does the 2015 Toyota Auris Touring Sports have and how does it perform?

It has a 1.4 D-4D diesel engine, which provides good torque despite its small size, and has a 0-60 mph time of 12 seconds.

What is the annual road tax for the diesel Toyota Auris in the UK?

The annual road tax for the diesel Toyota Auris in the UK is £20.

What is the Euro NCAP rating for the Toyota Auris and what safety features does it have?

The Toyota Auris has a five-star Euro NCAP rating and comes with seven airbags as standard.

How has the fuel gauge display changed from the Mk1 to the Mk2 Auris?

The fuel gauge display has changed from a digital block system in the Mk1 to an analog system in the Mk2 Auris.