The Corolla is bowing out from Toyota’s European line-up next spring to be replaced by Auris, a new range of three and five-door hatchbacks designed to better meet the needs of 21st century motorists. Earliest details reveal the car has been designed from the inside out, which means an emphasis was placed on making the most of the available space in the cabin. The car has the same wheelbase as the Corolla, but is all-new and is longer, wider and taller. Key features announced before the official unveiling in December include a flat rear floor (like Yaris) and bridge-shaped centre console that moves the gear lever and handbrake closer to the driver.

The engine line-up will include current Toyota petrol and diesel units, including the lively 2.2-litre D-4D 130, and a new 1.6-litre with dual variable valve timing. Five and six-speed manual and Toyota’s MultiMode automatic transmission with paddle shift will be offered.