Test drive Toyota Auris vs VW Golf: compact bestsellers
The compact Toyota and VW models are some of the best-selling vehicles of all time. The Corolla's successor, the Auris, aims to take over some of the positions that the Golf occupies in the Old Continent. Comparison of the petrol 1,6-liter variants of the two models.
In the first comparative test between the two models, the cars are faced with the latest equipment and 1,6-liter petrol engines under the hood. Even after getting to know the cars for the first time, it is clear that VW has indeed saved a lot in terms of standard equipment, but the impression of workmanship is better than that of its Japanese rival.
In particular, the materials and surfaces used in the dashboard and door trims, as well as in the seats, appear significantly thinner and better than Toyota.
In the interior, the two models are equal.
Both cars show almost equal results in terms of interior space and luggage compartment volume. There is ample head and legroom for passengers as the Auris seat is slightly taller than the Golf, hence the slightly better side view. The VW front seats, on the other hand, are more comfortable and provide better lateral body support. On the other hand, Auris passengers enjoy more comfort in the second row.
With its tall body, the Auris almost resembles a van, but like the Golf it has very little to do with the interior flexibility typical of the aforementioned vehicle category. In both cases, the greatest possibility of transformation is the folding rear seat, divided asymmetrically. However, the Auris exhibits another typical van feature - very limited forward visibility, which is the result of wide front columns. The Golf has a clearer not only body, but also the cabin itself - everything is where expected, the control of the functions is as intuitive as possible, in short, the ergonomics are close to ideal. In this regard, Toyota is also relatively good, but can not reach the level of the most popular VW.
Toyota engine is much more temperamental
Toyota's four-cylinder powertrain is significantly more dynamic than VW's direct injection thrust engine. Overall, the Auris engine is smoother and quieter, with good manners only with sharper acceleration. But even under such conditions, the "Japanese" engine sounds much more aggressive and adequate than the angry growl that the FSI Golf engine emits when cornering. On the other hand, the Auris's powertrain definitely lacks sixth gear and therefore, especially on the highway, the speed level is kept too high. VW consumes almost a liter less than a hundred kilometers compared to Toyota, despite the fact that the lack of sufficient traction often requires a downshift when overtaking, going uphill and so on. The latter, however, turns out to be a surprisingly enjoyable task, with gear shifting with incredible ease and precision, and Toyota's transmission lacks that sporty feel. On the other hand, the Auris surprises with its extremely fine tuning of the steering system, thanks to which the car shows even more enthusiasm for cornering than the Golf.
Auris beat Golf on points
In the limit mode, both cars behave in about the same way, are stable and easy to control. The Auris is particularly pleased that the dynamic behavior on the road does not compromise the driving comfort. The suspension setup is quite tough, and especially when passing small bumps, the Japanese model's comfort is even better than the Golf's. The Auris also boasts the best braking system.
Toyota is definitely on the right track with the Auris, and the result is quite surprising to many: the 1,6-liter version of the Auris beats the Golf 1.6 in points!
Text: Hermann-Josef Stapen
Photo: Hans-Dieter Zeifert
Evaluation
1. Toyota Auris 1.6 Executive
The Auris offers safe handling, good comfort, a spacious interior, rich standard equipment and an excellent braking system. However, the quality impression is considerably more mediocre than that of the Golf. There is still much to be desired in terms of the driver's view.
2.Vw Golf 1.6 FSI comfortline
The VW Golf continues to be the benchmark in the compact car class when it comes to interior quality and ergonomics, and once again demonstrates an excellent balance of good comfort and almost sporty handling. The sparse standard equipment compared to the Auris and the especially crude and sluggish 1,6-liter engine only give it second place in the test.
technical details
| 1. Toyota Auris 1.6 Executive | 2.Vw Golf 1.6 FSI comfortline | |
|---|---|---|
| Working volume | - | - |
| Power | 85 kW (115 hp) | 85 kW (115 hp) |
| Maximum torque | - | - |
| Acceleration 0-100 km / h | 10,1 with | 10,9 with |
| Braking distances at a speed of 100 km / h | 38 m | 39 m |
| full speed | 190 km / h | 192 km / h |
| Average consumption fuel in the test | 9,4 l / 100 km | 8,7 l / 100 km |
| Base Price | no data yet | 36 212 levov |
