Toyota Corolla vs Toyota Auris: Used Car Comparison

In the world of compact hatchbacks, the Toyota Corolla and Toyota Auris have built strong reputations for reliability, efficiency, and practicality. Both vehicles have been staples in Toyota's lineup, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features. While the Corolla has long been a global best-seller, the Auris was introduced to offer a more practical alternative within the same segment.

This article will compare the Toyota Corolla and Toyota Auris, highlighting their differences in design, performance, interior features, and overall practicality, helping you decide which model best suits your needs.

Contents

• Introduction and Design
• Versions and Performance
• Interior and Technology
• Practicality
• Value and Final Thoughts

Introduction and Design

In 1966, Toyota launched the Corolla, a hatchback that would soon become one of the best-selling cars in the world. Over the years, the Corolla became known for its reliability, affordability and fuel efficiency, which increased the vehicle’s global popularity.

Corolla’s exterior design has changed and evolved throughout the years. Having received major developments throughout its generations, Corolla's 12th gen models showcase a bold athletic design with angular lines that emphasise on the dynamic proportions. This facelift provides a premium and more modern look to the vehicle.

As part of Toyota’s strategy to compete directly with the Ford Focus, the Volkswagen Golf and the Hyundai i30, the manufacturer launched a new model known as Auris in 2006, which was added to the company’s hatchback lineup.

The model featured here is the second generation of Auris, which received a facelift and upgrades compared to the first gen. With elements such as a trapezoidal front grille, a more compact tailgate, and integrated rear lights, the new Auris displays a modern design that is elevated by sporty elements and a streamlined body.

Versions and Performance

The Corolla and Auris feature a varied range of petrol, diesel and self-charging petrol hybrid engines. Both models offer the same 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 114bhp. Both vehicles can accelerate to 62mph in 9.8 seconds from resting, and they have a slightly different fuel economy. While the Corolla is capable of 45mpg, the Auris can reach up to 42mpg.

The next two engines are where the Corolla and Auris differ. The engine options and specifications for the Corolla are as follows:

• 1.8-litre petrol-powered electric hybrid: 120bhp, up to 63mpg, 0 to 62mph in 10.5 seconds
• 2.0-litre petrol-powered electric hybrid: 181bhp, 53.3mpg, 0 to 62mph in 7.6 seconds

In contrast, the Auris offers the engines below:

• 1.4-litre diesel with 89bhp, up to 80mpg, 0 to 62mph in 7.6 seconds
• 1.8-litre petrol-powered electric hybrid: 139bhp, up to 54mpg, 0 to 62mph in 10.9 seconds

Interior and Technology

Toyota used high-quality materials in the Corolla, showing its commitment to delivering a great experience for both the driver and passengers. This is evident in the standard model, with even more premium and luxurious materials in the higher trims.

Looking at the onboard tech, Corolla’s standard kit is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, that comes with an intuitive system pre-installed. Apps such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa also come pre-installed in the system to offer an easy connection to smartphones.

Toyota designed the Auris with practicality in mind, making it easy for both the driver and passengers to enjoy a smooth and convenient ride. The layout is simple and intuitive, with user-friendly controls and easy navigation that makes every journey hassle-free. From the standard model to the higher trims, the focus is on functionality and ease of use.

When it comes to technology, the Auris is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, featuring a user-friendly interface. The model featured in the article comes with the operating system “Touch 2” which have Bluetooth and Sat Nav pre-installed.

Both the Corolla and Auris have scored five-starts in the Euro NCAP crash test due to their package of safety features that include lane dep warning, pre-collision system with auto braking, and road sign recognition to name a few.

Practicality

The Corolla’s cabin is spacious and can fit up to five people. The outer rear seats on either side are comfortable with plenty of head and legroom, however, only a child can fit comfortably in the middle.

Storage space can vary depending on the model, with the standard trim providing the smallest boot capable of holding 361 litres. Higher models feature bigger boots, with the biggest supporting 581 litres worth of cargo.

On the other hand, the Auris can comfortably fit up to five adults, with enough legroom, even for tall passengers. The boot is capable of holding 360 litres that can be extended to 507 with the rear seats folded down.

Value and Final Thoughts

The Toyota Corolla and Toyota Auris share many similarities, but each offers unique features. Both cars are available with a range of petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines, with the Corolla providing better fuel efficiency and acceleration times in most configurations. The Auris does offer a diesel engine with impressive mileage, but overall, the Corolla performs slightly better in terms of power and economy.

In terms of design and interior, the Corolla stands out with a more premium, modern aesthetic and a spacious, high-quality cabin. Its tech features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhance the driving experience. The Auris, on the other hand, prioritises functionality with an intuitive interior and a simpler infotainment system.

Both cars are safe, having earned five-star Euro NCAP ratings, and offer practical storage solutions. The Corolla has a larger boot, while the Auris provides more legroom in the rear seats, making it an excellent choice for those that regularly travel with taller passengers. Overall, the Corolla offers a more refined experience, while the Auris remains a solid, functional option.

Find your perfect used car at Evans Halshaw

Toyota is known for making good quality and reliable vehicles that work for most lifestyles. The Corolla and Auris are both good options if you’re on the market for a hatchback with fine reliability and practicality. If neither model meets all your requirements and needs, you can explore our range of used cars.

Alternatively, you can read more car comparison articles that are constantly updated with new information at our Evans Halshaw Blog.