TOYOTA has upgraded its Auris small car range with fresh trim grades and extra equipment features for both hatchback and Touring Sports estate models.

And joining the party is a new Icon Plus grade boasting stuff like rear privacy glass, retracting door mirrors and heated front sports seats.

Cruise control is provided on the petrol and hybrid models and all versions benefit from the improved Toyota Touch 2 with Go multimedia and navigation package.

There's also the option of a new Tungsten Blue metallic paint finish.

The Japanese brand is also extending its Auris Hybrid line-up, given that this model is now comfortably outselling the petrol and diesel versions.

So both the hatchback and Touring Sports hybrids are available in the new Icon Plus grade, in addition to the Icon and Excel trims. First customer deliveries are expected next month.

The options list for Auris has also been tweaked, so customers can specify a panoramic roof for Icon Plus and Excel, and leather upholstery for all versions bar the entry level Active model.

Other accessories include a full leather interior on Icon, Icon Plus and Excel including seat upholstery, centre armrest and door panels, offered in black with either white or blue contrast stitching.

A Parking Pack provides colour-matched front and rear parking sensors, which can be switched off when desired while the Protection Pack carried forward from the current model, adds front and rear mud flaps, scuff plate, a boot liner and a bumper protection plate.

And a new Chrome Pack adds chrome side sills and boot trim.

Prices are from £14,495 for the Auris 1.33-litre Active hatchback. with Icon Plus grade starting at £18,445.