The newToyota AurisHybridhas launched in South Africa and marks the company’s first introduction of their Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) technology in a mainstream model. The Hybrid Auris comes with a 1.8 litre VVT-i petrol engine as well as an electric motor.

New Toyota Auris Hybrid is frugal and practical

Both of these engines combine to propel the new Toyota Auris Hybrid from 0-100km/h in 11.4 seconds before capping out at a top speed of 188km/h. Max torque for the vehicle is impressive at 142 Nm at 4000rpm from the petrol engine, with 207 Nm max torque from the electric motor. The electric motor produces 60 kW and works as a generator during deceleration and braking to regenerate energy. This ultimately means that there is never a need to recharge the battery from an external source.

As you would expect in a hybrid, the Auris HSD has some impressive fuel economy. Toyota notes that at 3.8 litres/100km average fuel consumption, the fuel economy of the car is the best in its class. Also impressive is the CO2 emissions rating, which comes in at 89g/km.

Driving options available include: Normal mode, EV, ECO and POWER. The EV mode will automatically kick in at speeds under 50km/h while the vehicle is in Normal mode, which runs the vehicle only on electric. Eco mode reduces the throttle responsiveness which will further increase fuel economy. Power mode, as you would expect, increases throttle responsiveness and comes with improved acceleration and power.