THE Toyota Auris would never make the grade as a football defender - because it's been turned inside-out.
The concept was adopted by the car's designers in an effort to maximise cabin space - and it is highly successful.
Starting with the interior allows Toyota to make the best possible use of space for both comfort and practicality.
So when you climb into the Auris the first thing you notice is the excellent leg and headroom - particularly in the rear where the design of the exhaust system has allowed for a flat floor meaning three adults can be accommodated with ease.
The distance between front and back seats is on a par with the much larger Toyota Avensis with further convenience provided by the split-folding rear seat with two-stage recline function.
The Auris offers an unusual dashboard arrangement with the goal of putting everything within easy reach of the driver - and it largely succeeds although the stereo controls could be bigger and easier to use.
The gearstick and handbrake are mounted on a free-standing, arching central console but the top-button handbrake is one of the few annoying features as I found it awkward to use.
The boot is a generous size and shape and the Auris boasts neat touches such as door bins, an under-seat tray, sunglasses holder and second glovebox that provide plenty of stowage space.
The emphasis on the interior does not mean the outside is neglected as the Auris sports a highly efficient aerodynamic shape resulting in low noise levels and great fuel economy.
The 50-plus mpg figure though is mainly due to the efficient 2.0-litre diesel engine that propels the car from 0-62mph in a shade over ten seconds. Two petrol and two other diesel engines are also available with the Auris.
The ride and handling benefit from front and rear suspension systems engineered to deliver comfort, stability and the ability to handle country lanes and motorways with equal aplomb.
The electric power steering system is speed-sensitive providing precise and instant control.
The Auris is keenly priced against the competition and includes a lot of goodies as standard with all models getting air conditioning, nine airbags, electronic gadgets to aid braking, electric front windows, electrically adjustable door mirrors, remote central locking and a CD/radio system.
There is an emphasis on safety that has earned the Auris a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.
The TR trim - sitting in the middle of five grades - offers extra equipment such as 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, electric rear windows, audio controls on the steering wheel and extra chrome exterior detailing at the rear.
It all adds up to a very civilised family car that is practical and economic without being a complete fuddy duddy on the road.
Designed and developed for Europe, the Auris is available in three and five door models - the latter of which are built in the UK - and even in these hard economic times it should still be a good seller for Toyota.
FAST FACTS
Toyota Auris TR 2.0 D-4D 5dr
Price: £15,460
Mechanical: 126bhp, 1,998cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 121mph
0-62mph: 10.3 secs
Combined mpg: 52.3
Insurance group: 6
CO2 emissions: 144g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust