Interestingly enough, so does the rest of the world. Locally, we can split this group easily - as those who'll sell an arm for any VW hatchback and those who sensibly use their heads and generally sign for a Toyota hatchback.
Apart from a splinter group who desires a Mazda 3, we can dissect this section further. Guys, usually the bunch who'll add style as a requirement, tend to float towards the Golf while the ladies, historically the more ruthless shoppers, mysteriously hankers after the Toyota Auris.
Even Toyota's database corroborates this trend and, unlike its counterpart, Hyundai of South Africa, Toyota Motors South Africa will never suffer brain fade and publicly declare that it is targeting a certain group of our society with this car.
There are too many variables at play when a car is bought and the highly visible, positive beacons in an Auris include firstly its dimensions.
It's an ample-bodied hatch Toyota designed to place passenger room, comfort and safety above other frivolities like art deco furnishings.
With that in mind, a three-year-old Auris will be available with all the safety equipment that includes airbags and traction control.
Unlike the Toyota RunX it replaced, much thinking went into refining this not-so-sleek looking large hatchback. Good materials are used all over and as such, many are still in mint condition.
The initial interior design still exudes modernity while good quality plastics abound and these are matched to classy markings and clever lighting.
It will swallow four to five passengers comfortably with their luggage. Depending on the engine derivative you choose - and there are a number of them - your full quota of passengers will affect how quickly you eat up kilometers.
To make light work of octogenarian aunts I'd recommend the 2.0-litre diesel derivative in six-speed manual form.
The dollops of torque unleashed with every prod of its throttle gives this derivative respectable performance. The other advantage this black pump model has, is the manner in which it sips fuel.
Driven in a sane manner, deserving of any mainstream Toyota, the Auris D-4D will drive an impressive distance.
It is also the model that will save face for you on streets littered with Golf GTIs.
The petrol engines are also satisfactory. They have been treated to newer Toyota technology that optimises fuel usage while giving a refined, upmarket driving feel.
The Auris is available in a number of specification levels.
For a pre-owned purchase, draw a list of all the amenities you desire then go out on a comprehensive hunt. In many cases, dealers will have a wide selection of variably specced cars and that list will help in this regard.
If you are looking for a complete car ownership experience, take a peek at the Toyota Auris.
It lacks the streetwise appeal of a VW Golf but in all honesty, it's running at a level above. Prices range between R129000 and R299000.
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