THE FIRST-ever British-built hybrid car will hit the roads on July 1 courtesy of Toyota.
The new Auris Hybrid has been designed specifically for the European market and is being built exclusively by Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK at its Burnaston factory near Derby.
The hybrid system’s 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine – built at Deeside in North Wales - and electric motor generate a maximum 134bhp, giving acceleration from rest to 62mph in 11.4 seconds and a top speed of 112mph - a match for any conventional two-litre petrol or diesel hatchback, according to Toyota.
But the big plus for buyers is the fact that the Auris Hybrid is zero-rated for UK road tax, thanks to CO2 emissions as low as 89g/km, and will offer outstanding economy potential – up to 74.3mpg on the official combined driving cycle.
Two versions will be available – the T4 at £18,950 and the T-Spirit costing £20,700. Pricing is very similar to that of Honda’s Civic Hybrid and, oddly, to Toyota’s own, longer-established, Prius hybrid.
T4 models can be specified with 15-inch or optional 17-inch wheels, with the larger rims standard on the T Spirit version. – although the bigger wheels push up emissions and reduce fuel consumption.
Standard kit on both models includes climate control air conditioning, six-speaker audio with CD, radio, MP3 file player, USB and Aux-in connection, powered windows and door mirrors, push-button start, seven airbags, including driver’s knee airbag, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) plus Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
The more expensive T Spirit grade adds leather and Alcantara upholstery, cruise control, Bluetooth, auto headlights and wipers, smart entry and start and auto-dimming rear view mirror.
An optional Navigation Pack, providing satellite navigation, rear camera and rear parking sensors, costs £1,200, and Bluetooth can be specified for the T4 version for £285.