Toyota South Africa has introduced the next version of its Auris hatchback to the media and we attended the Cape Town leg of its national launch.

The Auris is the Toyota brand’s rival to the Volkswagen Golf, the Ford Focus, Honda Civic and Renault Megane to name but a few competitors. The Volkswagen Golf and to a lesser extent, the Ford Focus are the segment champions and despite Toyota’s brand power in South Africa, the Auris hasn’t quite matched these two in terms of sales. That’s not to say it’s a bad car, it’s just that the other two seemingly offer a little more appeal.

2015 Toyota Auris Details

With lagging sales, Toyota has launched a refreshed Auris to the public and the changes are considerable. First up are some visual alterations, with sharper looks at the front end and a neatened up rear. Toyota SA has also launched two new colours, the Citrus you see here as well as a metallic Blue which was previously reserved for the hybrid model.

Underneath the metal surface, Toyota is claiming suspension improvements and soundproofing enhancements, which make for an uprated ride quality. The interior too gains some upgrades in the form of a smart-looking touchscreen infotainment system as well as interior quality improvements to the door handles and air vents.

These are just some of the changes to the 2015 Toyota Auris, you can read about them in detail here.

What does this mean in terms of an on-road experience? Toyota SA organised a launch with a difference where there was no pre-assigned launch route. This was an opportunity to put the new Auris through its paces on our terms. First up was a dynamic test through Chapman’s Peak, which highlighted a solid and sorted chassis.

Next up was some highway cruising at the national speed limit where road noise and vibration was minimal. Finally, a drive through the cobbled streets of the Bo Kaap was sure to highlight any faults in build quality. Despite some vigorous driving on some exceptionally bumpy roads, the Toyota Auris didn’t have any rattles or squeaks. Toyota build quality lives up to its reputation again!

In summary, the new Toyota Auris is a well-built and reasonably affordable hatchback. We still favour the more upmarket/premium appeal of the Volkswagen Golf 7 for now, but we’ll wait until we have had some substantial time behind the wheel for a full evaluation. Initial impressions are good though!

New Toyota Auris Price in South Africa

Toyota Auris X – R223 700

Toyota Auris Xi – R249 100

Toyota Auris Xs – R259 800

Toyota Auris Xr – R287 700

Toyota Auris Xr CVT – R301700

The new Auris benefits from a three-year/100 000 km warranty. All Auris models come standard with a five-year/ 90 000 km service plan as well as 24-hourToyotaCare Roadside Assistance.