Toyota Auris Hybrid - Expert Review for the Kenyan Driver
Toyota Auris Hybrid - Expert Review for the Kenyan Driver

Toyota Auris Hybrid – Expert Review for the Kenyan Driver

January 6, 2024
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The Toyota Auris is a popular compact hatchback range known for bulletproof reliability, affordable pricing and good fuel returns. But select versions take things further with Toyota’s brilliant Hybrid Synergy Drive technology sending running costs into the stratosphere.

Join me as a certified automotive expert providing an in-depth evaluation of the Toyota Auris Hybrid for Kenya. Discover how seamlessly blending petrol and electric power creates an eco-hatch with sublime fuel mileage.

Locally Imported Hybrid Models

Hybrid variants account for nearly one-third of all second-hand Japanese Auris imports entering Mombasa. Kenyan buyers can select from:

2015-2016 Toyota Auris Hybrid

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  • 1.8L petrol hybrid powertrain
  • 55km/h electric-only mode
  • 27-30km/L fuel economy
  • Price range: Ksh 750,000 to 950,000

2017-2019 Toyota Auris Hybrid Touring Sports

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  • Toyota Auris 2018
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  • Toyota Auris 2017
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  • Identical hybrid drivetrain
  • Extended wagon-style body shape
  • Slightly larger luggage capacity
  • Price range: Ksh 950,000 – 1.3 million

These approved examples represent tremendous value in retaining the latest safety and technology features. Let’s examine why the Auris Hybrid makes perfect sense for the shrewd Kenyan motorist.

Unbeatable Hybrid Fuel Savings

At the heart of every Auris Hybrid lies Toyota’s legendary Hybrid Synergy Drive pairing a 1.8 litre petrol engine with a high-output electric motor. Clever control systems constantly juggle power delivery between engine, motor and battery packs depending on driving conditions.

The payoff is sensational fuel mileage surpassing 27km per litre in mixed usage. Drivers may happily cover over 1,000km between refuelling stops. Compare that to traditional non-hybrid 1.5L variants returning ~14km/L. Given rising pump prices, the Auris Hybrid transforms monthly budgets.

In heavier traffic, the system automatically selects electric-only operation up to 55km/h. This allows near-silent getaways and instant acceleration avoiding early morning disturbances. At higher speeds or throttle openings, the efficient Atkinson engine seamlessly starts up assisted by electric torque fill.

The regenerative braking setup captures kinetic energy when decelerating or coasting downhill. This helps recharge batteries and further amplify frugal characteristics. Overall running costs drop by 40-50% making the Auris Hybrid a smart long-term ownership bet.

Premium Specs and Toyota Build Quality

Based on the contemporary styled hatchback shape, the Auris Hybrid sports a clean silhouette with classy chrome exterior accents. Inside is a stylishly modern environment mixing metallic, piano black and silver trim finishes.

The upgraded multimedia system links phones via Bluetooth wireless connectivity. Automatic climate control, auto headlights, and wipers add premium touches lifting the ambience above mass-market expectations.

Toyota’s manufacturing excellence shines through inside with rock-solid switchgear operation and consistent panel gaps. At the same time, spongy damping keeps ride quality serene despite battered city streets. Used imports showcase impressive longevity thanks to the quality designed from the beginning.

Front seats are mounted slightly higher aiding ingress and outward visibility. Space throughout the cabin and boot proves ample for most family requirements. Rear passengers benefit from dedicated air vents and door pockets enhancing comfort.

Confident Handling with All-Round Safety Systems

Ride and handling skew more towards compliant comfort rather than razor-sharp cornering. Light precise steering affords a predictable feel that flatters novice drivers. All grades get low rolling resistance tires for extending fuel range at the mild expense of outright grip.

That said stability control steps in early, applying individual wheel brakes to restore poise if entering corners hot. Meanwhile, anti-lock brakes ensure safe, fuss-free stopping power in slippery conditions.

Used Auris Hybrids feature six airbags plus a reverse camera with parking sensors. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert technologies heighten awareness when manoeuvring tight parking lots. Overall the Auris cocoons occupants with extensive safety protections.

Performance Specs and Features Checklist

Let’s dig deeper and examine some key technical specifications along with a breakdown of standard equipment by model grades:

Powertrain

SpecDetails
Engine1.8 litre 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve petrol + electric motor
Combined Power136 hp
TransmissionElectronic CVT automatic
0-100km/h10.9 seconds
Top Speed180 km/h
Mileage27-30 km/l

Performance is smooth and quiet, accelerating from 0-100km/h in under 11 seconds. The electronic CVT auto transmission keeps the engine rpm optimal for efficiency and response. Overall the refined drivetrain prioritizes comfort over sporting pretensions.

Grade Level Features

Auris Hybrid G – Mid Spec

  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • Automatic LED headlamps
  • Rain sensing wipers
  • Dual-zone climate control
  • Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
  • 8-way power driver seat
  • Blind spot monitor
  • Rear cross-traffic alert

Engine/Fuel

Engine Model2ZR-FXE
Maximum Power99ps(73kW)/5200rpm
Displacement1797cc
Compression Ratio13.0
Fuel Supply Equipment
Fuel Type
Cylinders
Maximum Torque14.5kg・m(142N・m)/4000rpm
Bore×Stroke80.5mm×88.3mm
Charger
Fuel Tank Equipment45L

Suspension

Steering System
Suspension System(front)
Breaking System(front)
Tires Size(front)225/45R17
Minimum Turning Radius5.4m
Suspension System(rear)
Breaking System(rear)
Tires Size(rear)225/45R17

Drivetrain

Driving WheelFF
Transmission
LSD
Gear_ratio1st Gear
2nd Gear
3rd Gear
4th Gear
Reverse
Final Drive Gear Ratio3.267

Auris Hybrid X – Entry Specs

  • 16-inch steel wheels with covers
  • Automatic projector headlamps
  • Manual air conditioning
  • 4.2-inch multi-info display
  • Reversing camera

Auris Touring Sport – Wagon Practicality

  • Identical features to standard Auris
  • Extended rear overhang boosts cargo volume
  • Split folding rear seats (60:40 ratio)
  • Roof rails + rear privacy glass

Verdict – Kenya’s Best Hybrid Hatchback Package

In closing, Toyota’s Auris Hybrid range makes an unbeatable case for merging green motoring ideals with hatchback practicality. Real-world fuel savings meet assured resale values and bulletproof Japanese reliability.

For the growing cohort of eco-conscious Kenyan buyers, the Auris Hybrid is arguably the smartest route to start enjoying hybrid benefits today. Schedule your test drive now before this coveted import sells out!

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