This morning at the Geneva Motor Show, Toyota unveiled the production version of its Auris HSD Hybrid. To be built in the United Kingdom, the Auris Hybrid is the next step in Toyota’s plan to fully hybrid-ize its global lineup by 2010.
Don’t expect the Auris Hybrid to make it to North America, where the same platform underpins the Lexus HS 250h Hybrid. Despite the shared platform, however, the Auris Hybrid achieves a much more impressive 62 mpg in the combined cycle (converted to U.S. gallons). It also emits just 89 g/km of CO2, making it about as efficient as the Prius but at a lower cost.
Unlike the HS 250h, the Auris uses a 1.8-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
Toyota hasn’t released pricing, but the Auris Hybrid will go up against cars in a smaller class than the Prius, so expect sticker prices to be accordingly lower.
Like other recent Toyota hybrids, the Auris HSD offers the ability to move for about 1.5 miles at low speeds under a purely electric mode.
A few minor changes have been made to Auris’ exterior, improving aerodynamics. The front end is designed for optimized airflow, with flat surfaces that minimize turbulence and drag. Unlike the concept car that debuted last year at the Frankfurt Motor Show, solar panels on the roof are not included in the production model.
Look for the Auris HSD to go into production in early summer before it goes on sale across Europe in July.
