Toyota's hot new diesel hatch

24 December 2007

New Auris SR180 is sporty flagship
Powered by 175bhp diesel
In showrooms from January 1

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Toyota's new diesel hot hatch, the Auris SR180, hits the streets in the New Year.

The new range-topper for Toyota's small hatch line-up, the SR180 is powered by a 175bhp 2.2-litre diesel engine.

That power output may lag behind the 197bhp of the petrol-engined VW Golf GTI, but the diesel-powered Toyota has more pulling power. There's 295lb/ft to call upon, 88lb/ft more than the Golf GTI can muster, which helps the Auris SR180 sprint from 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds.

Fuel economy is impressive for such a swift car, with the promise of 45.6mpg on the combined cycle. The Golf GTI returns 35.3mpg.

The SR180's lowered sports suspension promises more agile handling than the standard Auris. Drive a little too enthusiastically, and standard fit stability and traction control systems should come to the rescue.

Luxury equipment includes dual-zone climate control, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and cruise control. Prices start from £17,995 for the three-door, and £18,495 for the five-door.