Toyota Auris Hybrid coming this autumn

The Auris hatchback hybrid version, which is going to be manufactured in the facility at Burnaston, Derbyshire, UK, will be released by Toyota this coming autumn. Since the gasoline-electric drivetrain of the Auris Hybrid Synergy Drive will be shared by the latest Prius, it means that it will come with a 98bhp 1.8L Atkinson-cycle gasoline powerplant and an 80bhp electric power unit.

The Auris will come with a lower price tag because it will be a smaller car and it will not come with lots of equipment. Although Toyota’s hybrid system is more advanced than its competitor’s the Auris will provide Toyota a more direct challenger to the Honda Insight. The Auris hybrid’s lower weight and smaller size could make it Toyota’s cleanest model when it is released this autumn at the Frankfurt motor show, undermining the 87g/km carbon dioxide emissions of the latest Prius.
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SteedPub - 6/24/2009 1:58:59 PM

+3 Boost

It doesn't look like a Hybrid.

dumpsty - 6/25/2009 9:52:30 AM

+1 Boost

huh? are all hybrids supposed to (actually) look like a "hybrid"?

For example, go back and review the Honda Accord V6 Hybrid. Of course, their hybrid system was geared toward providing additional power with the same fuel consumption as the gas-only version, but it really didn't scream "hybrid". Also, look at the 2-mode Tahoe/Escalade. If they didn't have badges and stickers indicating that they are hybrid vehicles, no one would actually know.

I like the idea of integrating high-tech hybrid powertrains in existing vehicles to show the real value of actual technology. Creating brand-new cars just for a hybrid systems shows a lack of confidence that the hybrid tech is really worth the extra costs.

MrBratwurst - 6/24/2009 2:07:45 PM

0 Boost

Excellent move!

Now just undercut Prius highest fuel efficiency of 89 g CO2. Make it even more fuel efficient.

Price it appropriately, below diesel automatic cars as you did with the Prius.

Then add the RAV4 hybrid.

pennfootball - 6/24/2009 2:43:38 PM

+1 Boost

Coming to the US? Coming to Europe? Coming to Japan?

Whelan - 6/25/2009 10:12:43 AM

+3 Boost

So they took a small tiny compact called the Yaris and added a hybrid system to get more mpg than those little putt putts already get. Don't they pull close to 40mpg already.

I guess they are trying to compete with Smart cars. Can't wait to get a big SUV, I can save on tires by using these little things as roller skates.