06 Nov 07
For all its sturdiness and trustworthiness, the Auris is outshone in many ways by the more interesting alternatives available in this price bracket, especially if you consider buying nearly-new or pre-registered. I could get more excited about a fun-to-drive Ford Focus, for example; or, for the joy of having something a bit different, the new non-turbo Subaru Impreza.
If you're concerned with impressing the neighbours, go for a Golf or the distinctive Honda Civic, and if design is your biggest consideration you're got the choice of the Renault Megane or Citroen C4.
The Korean duo, the Kia Cee'd and Hyundai i30, can do everything the Auris can, at a competitive price. They're no duller to look at, their quality is about the same, and they come with industry-leading warranties.
Bargain hunting? There's always the eternally unfashionable Vauxhall Astra, invariably available with big discounts. Sporting character? Seat Leon, Alfa 147... So many choices even if you limit yourself to conventional hatchbacks alone, let alone the new cohort of crossovers, compact SUVs, mini-MPVs and other such variants on the small family-sized theme.
