Iain Dooley checks out Toyota's dependable and practical Auris family hatchback.Engines - The Toyota Auris is a modest car in many ways, and this is perfectly illustrated by the engine options.

Iain Dooley checks out Toyota's dependable and practical Auris family hatchback.

Engines - The Toyota Auris is a modest car in many ways, and this is perfectly illustrated by the engine options. Nothing's too powerful, but the 1.4, 1.6 and newer 1.33-litre petrol and 1.4, 2.0 and sporty 2.2-litre diesel options offer good refinement, performance and economy.

Exterior - Although not as adventurous as some rivals, the Auris is nevertheless an appealing car. More to the point, it's a practical car. And this is obvious from its wide-opening doors and generously-dimensioned tailgate.

Interior - Toyota has built its name on durability, and the Auris's cabin is a great place to be. Visually everything looks and feels close to the premium end of the scale, while there's enough room for five in reasonable comfort.

Driving - As a family car the Auris scores highly, thanks to excellent refinement levels when on the move. The various engines all offer ample performance, while the diesels deliver above-average economy.

Ownership - Backed by the mighty Toyota brand, it's hard to find fault with the Auris. As a family vehicle it's tough enough to survive the daily grind and spacious enough to swallow your family and all its stuff. It's easy on the wallet too, thanks to modest running costs.

What to look for - Being a family-focused car, look out for damaged cabin trim, soiled upholstery and the predictable parking dents and kerbed wheels. Soggy brakes, rattles and a below-par road-test should have you looking elsewhere. A full history is a must on a car this new.

Model history - 2007, Toyota launches the Auris, its replacement for the hugely-popular Corolla. Small range of modest capacity petrol and diesel engines are offered, along with good levels of standard equipment and 'warm hatch' sporty variant. 2010, Subtle but important revisions concentrating on exterior and overall refinement.

Reasons to buy - Durable, refined and practical hatchback, solid engine range choice, easy on the eye.

Reasons to beware - Performance model is no GTi, dark cabin ambience, diesel engine refinement.

Pick of the range - Auris 1.6 VVTi TR five-door.

What to pay - 2007 56 �8,325; 2007 07 �8,575; 2007 57 �8,800; 2008 57 �9,200; 2008 08 �9,600; 2008 58 �9,900; 2009 58 �10,125; 2009 09 �10,475; 2009 59 �11,000. Figures relate to showroom prices for cars in A1 condition.

Dingles Toyota is offering two years free servicing on used cars including the Toyota Auris.