New Auris is the latest part of Toyota’s product refresh. In response to customer feedback, this has included rolling out a new family “face” across all models to give the manufacturer its own instantly recognisable design language, and heightened marketing of the GT86 coupe to show the brand’s fun-to-drive side.

Due to be built at the carmaker’s factory in Burnaston, UK, the model will launch with a choice of 1.33 and 1.6-litre petrol and 1.4-litre diesel engines, plus a revised version of the Hybrid Synergy Drive. European sales are expected to be split evenly between petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrains.

New models are up to 40kg lighter than the equivalent outgoing car, offering improved fuel efficiency, lower running costs and greater agility, helped by a 55mm lower ride height and focus on lowering its centre of gravity. A Tourer estate model is also rumoured to be under development.

Answering criticisms of the old version the hybrid battery is fitted under the rear seats, as in the Yaris Hybrid, instead of under the boot floor. As a result, luggage space is the same across the range. Interior fabrics, lighting and colours have been chosen to improve perceived quality in the cabin, and the Auris is the first to get Toyota’s new Skyview full-length panoramic roof.

Release dates will be announced shortly, along with specification, pricing and running costs.