Toyota Auris - Pictures

Ideally, we’d like more height adjustment in the driver’s seat. None of our testers could get low enough to be comfortable, and the chairs aren’t supportive enough. Yet we had few aches and pains after long journeys

The Auris is no more versatile than any rival, and is let down by tricky access to the cubby under the arch behind the gearlever. Handbrake features a quirky pull-back button, and it’s not very comfortable to use

With 3D-effect raised centres, the instrument dials are copied from the Civic. But here they have a cheap orange glow. Green shift arrows tell you when to change gear for the most efficient driving

Body control in the new car is impressive, and firm settings make it predictable in corners without spoiling the ride quality. Positive gearshift adds to the driver appeal, although vague steering takes the edge off