Toyota Auris HSD

July 2010

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• Latest deal price: from £10,565 to £21,309

Could this be the UK’s most eco-friendly car? Not only does the new Toyota Auris HSD pack a hi-tech hybrid powerplant, it’s also built in Britain at an environmentally award-winning factory.

On paper, it certainly has impressive green credentials. An efficient petrol/electric powertrain from the larger Prius means CO2 emissions of only 89g/km and diesel-busting fuel returns of 74.3mpg. Order the 17-inch alloys fitted to our car, and these figures change to 93g/km and 70.6mpg.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Toyota Avensis

Visually, the HSD isn’t much different from other Auris models – distinctive LED running lights set it apart. The only clues to the car’s hybrid status inside are the eye-catching blue backlit dials, with a unique power gauge, and the stubby, Prius-style gearlever. The cabin is roomy and full of useful storage, although the bulky battery pack reduces boot space to a cramped 279 litres.

Be gentle with the throttle and the Auris will travel up to 1.2 miles on eerily silent electric power alone. If extra urge is needed, the 1.8-litre petrol engine seamlessly cuts in – although it sounds a bit thrashy under hard acceleration.

Elsewhere you’ll discover light and precise steering, strong grip and decent refinement. The only dynamic black mark is a firm ride – the result of the suspension being beefed up to cope with heavyweight hybrid mechanicals.