Toyota Auris (07 on) - Review

Originally, Toyota Auris equipment levels could by differentiated by the three trim levels: T2, T3 and T Spirit but the Japanese firm has changed them since the model was first launched in 2007. The entry level T2 came with air conditioning, nine airbags, ABS with EBD, electric front windows, remote central locking and an MP3-compatible CD stereo. T3 added 16-inch alloy wheels, colour-keyed door mirrors and handles, front fog lamps, heated door mirrors, leather-trimmed steering wheel, electric rear windows (on five-door), steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a six-speaker stereo system. T Spirit got automatic headlights, keyless entry, dual zone climate control, automatic wipers, cruise control and an auto-dimming rearview mirror while a special T180 model got smoked glass headlamps, different interior detailing, an electric sunroof, alloy wheels, vehicle stability control and traction control. Toyota then launched the TR, which was originally a launch special edition, available with 1.6-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel engines. It had the same spec as T3, but adds scuff plates and chrome detailing. It was later made a permanent trim level and also got dual zone air conditioning, 16-inch alloys, blue seat trim and interior chrome detailing. The SR trim was introduced later and is designed to be mildly sporty with 17-inch alloys, lowered sports suspension, a rear spoiler, privacy glass, front fog lights, climate control and a leather steering wheel with audio controls. In 2009 the line-up was simplified to T2, TR, T Spirit and SR180, and in 2010 revised again to T2, TR and SR with a range-topping hybrid version added in the latter half of the year. The 2010 models had a minor makeover such as new materials on the dashboard to improve quality and all models gained USB and AUX inputs for portable music devices as standard. Toyota changed the game again with Edition, Colour Collection, TR and SR. Phew. Highlights for Edition include electric windows with one-touch function, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, MP3 connectivity, steering wheel-mounted controls and 16-inch alloys. If Toyota Auris accessories are a major priority go for the mid-range TR that offers dual-zone air-con, an improved stereo, front fog lamps and a touchscreen for audio with Bluetooth connectivity, USB port and rear-view camera for parking.