NEW TOYOTA AURIS HAS SAME OLD PROBLEMS

I HAVE to admit that I’m not a fan of the Toyota Auris. I hate the way that driver and passenger sit in what seem like separate countries, never mind spaces.

That’s because they’re divided by a weird “bridge” (Toyota’s name, not mine) that flies out from the dashboard and ends up where you’d expect to find a gearlever.

You’ve got to be some kind of rubber-armed freak from the Fantastic Four to reach the little storage shelf underneath it, but that’s not all that was wrong with the Auris.

I didn’t just hate its interior, I was also put off by its uncommunicative ride and really bland looks. Yet, despite my criticism, would you believe that of all people my DAD bought one when it first came out.

That was four years ago and Toyota have finally replaced the Auris with this new version, that should be considerably nicer to drive.

The suspension and steering have been retuned to make the Auris “better suited to European roads”.

Let’s hope that they mean an improved ride and feedback. Toyota have also had a go at its looks, with the front end receiving special attention. It’s got new headlights, bumper and grille. I leave you to decide whether it’s still bland, but you probably know what I still think.

Finally, the interior has been re-designed. It’s now “high quality”, but sadly it’s still the same unfriendly shape.

The Auris is definitely well-equipped, though. Even starter models get air-con, leccy windows and mirrors, CD-stereo with USB and AUX and seven airbags.

Prices start from £14,463, but, please, don’t tell my dad.

» MORE 'MOTORING' HERE...

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