The new Toyota Auris was launched recently by Michael Debono Ltd.

In creating the new Auris, Toyota have sought to develop a stronger emotional appeal for those who want to feel more connected to their car through the way it looks and the way it drives.

Thanks to a stronger focus on driving dynamics and driver feedback, the Auris delivers much more when you’re behind the wheel reflecting Toyota’s mission to create cars that appeal to the heart as well as the head.

The Auris engineering team focused on weight management, chassis design, clever packaging and improved powertrains to achieve a more engaging drive. They also worked closely with the design team to match the vehicle’s style to its architecture.

Michael Debono’s Marketing and Business Development Manager, Mr Jonathan Cremona, highlighted that as a result of Toyota’s efforts, the New Auris is more dynamic, better equipped and cheaper to run than ever before. It offers more confident, sleeker styling, improved driving dynamics, a higher quality interior design and changes that deliver better fuel efficiency, including in its flagship full hybrid model.

Aerodynamic improvements, weight savings and engine adjustments have brought fuel consumption and CO2 emissions reductions across the range, bringing down running and ownership costs, Mr Cremona said.

The new Auris’s will be offering a full range of drive trains being the full hybrid, diesel and petrol models, demonstrating how full hybrid has become a mainstream proposition, accessible to a large customer base.

The Auris introduces a new Toyota grade structure which starts from an entry-level Active trim (priced at €15,895), through Icon and Sport to the top-of-the range Excel. The 1.33 Dual VVT-i engine will be available in Active and Icon grades; the 1.6 Valvematic in Icon, Sport and Excel; and the 1.4 D-4D in all trims. Auris Hybrid will be offered in Icon and Excel versions.

The Auris will be equipped as standard with seven airbags, air conditioning, in-car entertainment system with six speakers and Aux inputs, steering controls, a new follow-me-home lighting system, Hill-start Assist Control, Vehicle Stability Control and LED daytime running lights.

For more information on the Toyota Auris visit the Toyota showroom in Mdina Road, Zebbug (www.toyota.com.mt)