Toyota plans Auris crossover – first spy pictures

Toyota is working on a new Auris-based crossover, which will be sold globally from 2017.

Sitting below the current Toyota RAV4 compact SUV in the firm's line-up, the Auris crossover is likely to be pitched against the likes of the Honda CR-V and Nissan Qashqai.

As these early spy photos show, the Auris crossover is raised significantly over the standard car, and appears to retain its exterior styling. All-wheel drive is likely to be an option on higher-spec models, while entry-level versions should be front-wheel-drive only.

Current reports suggest the model, which has been dubbed Auris Cross, will use a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with around 128bhp and 118lb ft of torque. Hybrid variants are also planned, with the 1.8-litre 136bhp hybrid powertrain from the current Auris likely to be carried over.

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