Used Toyota Auris for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.1%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.0 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 250
Average Price: Around £9,000

Toyota Auris (2007-2012) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
A sensible, reliable buy	Dull driving experience
Economical 1.4-litre diesel	Lots of hard and scratchy plastics in the cabin
The hybrid works well around town	Anonymous looks, especially before the 2010 facelift

Quick Summary

The Toyota Auris (2007-2012) was introduced as a replacement for the hugely successful Corolla, aiming to be a sensible, no-fuss family hatchback. Designed to compete with popular cars like the Ford Focus and VW Golf, it offers reasonable interior space, accommodating four adults comfortably, and boasts a 354-litre boot. While its interior plastics are hard, they are well-built, and controls are easy to use, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

Driving dynamics are not its strong suit, with a focus on reliability over excitement, but it delivers a reasonable ride. Engine options include 1.4-litre, 1.3-litre, and 1.6-litre petrols, plus 1.4-litre, 2.0-litre, and 2.2-litre diesels, with a hybrid option also available after the 2010 facelift. Running costs are competitive, especially for the 1.4-litre diesel and hybrid models, though real-world MPG may vary from official figures.

Best for: Drivers prioritising reliability, sensible family transport, good interior space, and competitive running costs, particularly the hybrid model for town driving.

Not ideal for: Buyers seeking an engaging driving experience, premium interior materials, distinctive styling, or those who value brand appeal over practicality.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Auris if: You're looking for a sensible, reliable, and practical family car at a reasonable price, particularly valuing low running costs and good interior space.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise an engaging driving experience, premium interior feel, distinctive styling, or strong brand appeal.

Competitive Position: The Toyota Auris (2007-2012) is a highly reliable and practical option in the used family hatchback market, offering good value and competitive running costs, especially with its diesel and hybrid powertrains. While it may lack the driving excitement of a Ford Focus or the premium feel of a Volkswagen Golf, its straightforward nature and dependable build quality make it a solid, no-nonsense choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable transport.

Read our full Toyota Auris Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from February 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.