There’s no doubt that we’re living in the time of SUVs, so a more rugged looking, but not necessarily truly functional or capable, crossover version of a mainstream hatch like the Toyota Auris, isn’t out of the question. It’s not like it hasn’t been done before and it could give the Japanese compact an extra boost in sales.
The alternative for this high-riding Auris prototype is that it may be a test mule for a different car using the same chassis and mechanical components as the C-segment hatch.
Differences over the regular Auris appear to be limited to the increased distance from the road and the chunkier tires. From what we can tell, this is a front-wheel drive model, as we can’t see a differential on the rear axle.
If Toyota is indeed working on an Auris Cross, we imagine that the production car would also gain a tougher appearance through restyled bumpers, plastic moldings over the wheel arches and rocker panels, and roof rails – who said automakers aren’t predictable…
By John Halas
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS
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