A performance version of the new Toyota Auris hot hatch, which challenges established rivals in Europe. “The key thing for us is to run a good business first, and then start having fun later,” said Schlicht.

Toyota hopes the new Auris can boost its share of Europe's C-segment from the current 4.5% to 5.5%. According to Toyota's product planning chief, Karl Schlicht said a sporty Auris is "not a number one priority" but there is "room to experiment."

Last week we reported about the Toyota Auris Modellista variant, the new Toyota Auris would likely have an aggressive body kit that borrows from there.

The 2013 Toyota Auris has just received its second tuning kit signed by TRD, with the Japanese automakers in-house tuning arm Modellista has taken this car under their wing for some tasty modifications.

The idea for this cosmetic tune is inspired by Char Aznable, a fictional character from the Gundam franchise. Mobile Suit Gundam used to be an animated series aired in Japan between 1979 and 1980 about giant robots.

The 2013 Toyota Auris hatchback is coming with an apron for the front spoiler, LED daytime lights, dark gray 18-inch alloy wheels, a diffuser, a red foil wrap and vents in the hood. At the back of the car there's a discreet roof spoiler and quad tailpipes.

[caption id="attachment_1137" align="aligncenter" width="581"] 2013 Toyota Auris starting point is £14,495[/caption]

The second generation of the 2013 Toyota Auris which is scheduled to go on sale in December, for prices ranging from £14,495 for the base petrol model to £21,745 for the Hybrids. Expected will introduce the public for the first time at the 2012 Paris Auto Show this week.

The new Toyota Auris will be offered with a choice of a 1.33-litre Dual VVT-i and 1.6-litre ‘Valvematic’ petrol and 1.4 D-4D diesels, the 134bhp 1.8-liter petrol-electric hybrid. The 2013 Toyota Auris will be equipped as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox and the Auris Hybrid gets a CVT automatic transmission.

Offered in four trim levels (Active, Icon, Sport and Excel). All the 2013 Auris are equipped as standard with seven airbags; four-speaker audio system with USB; heated door mirrors and USB/AUX connection; LED daytime running lights and Vehicle Stability Control.

[alert style="green"] 2013 Toyota Auris photos [/alert]

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These are the first official images of the 2013 Toyota Auris hatchback, set to be unveiled at the 2012 Paris Auto Show. The redesigned a sleeker and more aggressive look than its rounded predecessor.

Designed with the European market, the 2013 Toyota Auris has overall height is 55mm; 2,600mm (102.4 inches) wheelbase; 1,760mm (69.3 inches) width. The model will be available in ten exterior colors.

The interior of the compact has been completely redesigned. Key features include a three-spoke steering wheel, an ergonomic and high-tech dashboard, satin silver trim, infotainment system and a leather-wrapped dashboard on higher-end variants.

At its launch the 2013 Toyota Auris will be available with a full range of hybrid powertrains, gasoline and diesel. The European model, manufactured exclusively at Toyota's Burnaston factory in the UK and will go on sale across Europe in early 2013.

[alert style="green"] 2013 Toyota Auris hatchback photos [/alert]

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