These are the first spy shots of the upcoming replacement of the Toyota Auris or Corolla Hatchback as it’s named in some markets.

It’s the first time we see the 2018 Auris being tested while wearing its production body as well, which is covered by layers of black tape and extra bits in order to hide its design cues.

However, the overall shape of it looks a lot cleaner as Toyota seems to have ditched the weird-looking third pillar of the current Auris for a more natural design that follows the roof line. The bonnet also appears to adopt a clamshell-like design while the headlights look like they are stretched towards the grille, for a more dynamic face.

There are very little details so far about the new Auris but we do know that the new compact Toyota will ride on the TNGA modular architecture, which is also used on the Prius, the C-HR and the Camry. Hopefully, this should also mean that the new Auris will offer a more engaging drive than its predecessors.

This would also mean that Toyota will offer the new Auris with the Prius’ hybrid powertrain as well as a turbocharged 1.2-liter petrol engine. Some reports also suggest that the new Auris might borrow a few engines from BMW as part of Toyota’s latest deal with the Bavarian company but this doesn’t sound too plausible at the moment.

Expect a debut of the new Toyota Auris/Corolla Hatchback around mid to late 2018.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

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