The JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) 2010 Toyota Auris hatchback was officially launched today. The Japanese automaker has stated that the JDM 2010 Toyota Auris gets some important improvements. The interior of the JDM 2010 Toyota Auris gets improved standard equipment on certain models, some new color options and upgraded materials. Exterior improvements include a new hood design, a revised grille, revised alloy wheels, revised front and rear bumpers, revised tail lights and revised headlamps.

Moving on towards the technical improvements, the Japanese automaker has stated that the four cylinder 1.8 liter engine received a revised variable timing system that improves fuel efficiency and power output. The revised variable timing system was applied to both the inlet and exhaust valves. Also, the drivers of all the versions equipped with the 1.8 liter engine and a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) will be able to change gears at the flick of a finger thanks to the new steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.

On the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) the 2010 Toyota Auris can also get its power from a 1.5 liter gasoline engine. The top of the range JDM 2010 Toyota Auris S-Package 4WD with a 1.8 liter engine has a price of 2.331.000 Yens or the equivalent of 17.500 euros or 26.050 dollars while the basic version JDM 2010 Toyota Auris 150X FWD with a 1.5 liter engine has a price of 1.622.000 Yens or the equivalent of 12.200 euros or 18.125 dollars.

I think that the pricing level for the JDM 2010 Toyota Auris is very fair and it will most likely be kept for the rest of the markets where the 2010 Toyota Auris will be launched. Regarding the styling upgrades received by the new Toyota Auris, to be honest I do not like them. I think that the 2009 year model Toyota Auris looked better than the 2010 Toyota Auris, but we will have to see more pictures to be sure of our statement. Still, for the time being, I think that they took a step back instead of a step forward in terms of design for the 2010 Toyota Auris.