The new Toyota Auris is now upon us. While most of the discussion surrounding the new hatchback will focus on its new engine options — only one gas unit for this model — its design should also get some screen time. There once was a time when the Toyota Auris looked like a cardboard box with headlights. That’s no longer the case because the new Auris looks amazing.

The first thing we need to establish is that the new Toyota Auris is longer by 1.57 inches (40 mm) compared to the previous model. The hatchback’s wheelbase is also longer. That’s largely due to Auris carrying Toyota’s New Global Architecture. The overall height of the car also drops by an inch (25 mm) while the cowl height drops by 1.8 inches (47 mm). The hatchback is also wider by 1.18 inches (30 mm). All of this adds up to create a more aggressive-looking hatchback that’s a far departure from its old designs.

You only need to look at it to see how evolved the Auris’ design has become. The front section, in particular, gets ax-shaped all-LED headlamps that set the tone for its menacing appearance. The clamshell hood also slopes a little lower to the ground, ending within touching distance of the narrow upper grille that prominently displays Toyota’s logo. The massive trapezoidal lower grille adds another layer of aggressiveness to the Auris’ new look while the sides of the same grille feature a catamaran hull shape at the front corners. It’s a subtle tweak in the hatchback’s design, but it helps immensely in conveying a broader stance. The front spoiler just below the grille is another welcome addition to the design. Notice the space between the spoiler and the hull form? That’s another incremental change that yields tremendous results in further emphasizing the Auris’ sportiness.

Move to the rear section, and you’ll see something you never thought you’d see on a Toyota: a sexy rear end. From the angular rear windscreen rake to the muscular hip that’s emphasized by those rear wheel arches, the new Auris is making a case as one of the year’s most pleasant design surprises. There’s even a roof spoiler, which comes as standard across all versions of the hatchback. The rear bumper extends a little further out from the rest of the panels, but this is another design attribute of Toyota’s Under Priority Catamaran design philosophy.

If you want more emphasis of the Auris’ naturally aggressive new look, Toyota is also offering optional two-tone color schemes that feature distinct body colors that are matched with black finishes on the roof and all glazing pillars.

It’s worth mentioning that Toyota was determined to highlight the Auris in ways it never did. According to Toyota Global Design Executive General Manager Simon Humphries, the goal was to “create the (boldest) and most dynamic hatchback on the market, without compromising on interior usability.” On that end, Toyota scores flying marks.

Job well done.

References

Read our full review on the 2017 Toyota Auris.

Read more Geneva Motor Show news.

Read more Toyota news.