THE compact hatchback market seemed to produce some rather ordinary cars before the ground-breaking Ford Focus came along.

Since then there have been numerous advancements with buyers’ expectations having risen considerably and being more diverse than ever.

Toyota addressed the challenge in this popular sector of the market with the Auris, a roomy and practical vehicle built on a new platform.

Sales began in the UK last spring and earlier this year a new SR specification was introduced together with a smooth 1.6-litre petrol unit. Actually, the Auris is the first European model to use this advanced motor.

The new dual VVT-i unit joined a very competitive range comprising a 1.4-litre VVT-i petrol and three powerful diesels – 1.4, 2.0 and 2.2-litre.

As a family car, the Auris impresses in several areas but it’s not cheap, with prices starting at £12,335 on the road for the 1.4-litre petrol three-door and rising to £18,545 for the flagship SR180 five-door.

However, this is a good quality and well-equipped vehicle so that the value-for-money aspect is there.

With their ‘inside-out’ design approach and tall shape, Toyota has made great use of space which means improved passenger comfort. In particular, there is excellent head and legroom.

Take the cabin which has a distinctive bridged central console. This brings the gear lever and handbrake closer to the driver and while it takes a little getting used to has the advantage of opening up extra room.

The space improvement is probably best seen in the rear where the design of the exhaust system has allowed for a flat floor so that three adults can be more comfortably accommodated.

What you will also notice is the low noise levels. There are several reasons for this, including the slippery shape which also contributes to stability and fuel economy. The aerodynamics extend to the underneath where elements of the suspension, exhaust system and engine undercover have been shaped to help maintain a smooth airflow.

Looking at the technical specification, the 1.6-litre is at the top of the tree compared to rivals.

The new four cylinder is not only a smooth but a quick operator. It pushes out 122bhp and produces 157Nm of torque (or pulling power), giving 0 to 62mph acceleration in 10.4 seconds, a top speed of 118mph and a combined fuel consumption of 39.8mpg.

With the leaning towards diesel nowadays, the oil burners in the range will probably be the big sellers but petrol vehicles remain the favourites among some of the UK’s top sellers. Nowadays they give a better-than-ever combination of performance and economy.

The five-door cars, built in Derbyshire, are available in six grades and all models feature air-conditioning, as many as nine airbags, including a knee airbag, ABS braking with electronic brake force distribution, electrically adjustable door mirrors and remote central locking. The CD player can play digital music files stored on disc.

The SR grade takes the Auris to the heart of the warm hatch market with lowered suspension, a rear spoiler and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The 1.6-litre car is very agile and handles on corners with great aptitude. The ride remains comfortable and is less taut than some sporty rivals. The steering is speed sensitive and very precise but its lighter feel may not be to everyone’s liking.

Inside, the Auris is particularly quiet with the cabin oozing quality trim and good layout. Silver-finish detailing and soft-touch fabrics add to the ambient feel of the easy-to-live-with cabin.

At-a-glancE Toyota Auris SR 1.6 five-door manual.

Price: £14,045 (on the road).

Top speed: 118mph.

0-62mph: 10.8 seconds.

Fuel: 39.8mpg (combined figure).

C02 emissions (g/km): 166.

Verdict: Roomy and practical with classy interior. Smooth engine and transmission, safe and reliable.