2014 Toyota Auris to Debut BMW Diesel Engine in Europe
Toyota will introduce a BMW-supplied diesel engine in the 2014 Auris, marking the first time a BMW powertrain appears in a Toyota model for the European market.
Toyota will fit a BMW diesel engine to the 2014 Auris, making it the first Toyota model to receive a BMW powertrain under the two companies' technology-sharing agreement. The move is aimed at strengthening the Auris's position in the European compact segment, where diesel engines remain popular among buyers.
BMW diesel for Toyota: what changes for Auris buyers?
The BMW-sourced diesel will expand the Auris's appeal in a segment dominated by the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, both of which offer a range of diesel options. Toyota has not confirmed the specific engine variant, but the collaboration is expected to deliver improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to previous Toyota diesels. Styling and driving dynamics will also be updated for the 2014 Auris as part of Toyota's broader European strategy.
The agreement between Toyota and BMW is reciprocal: BMW gains access to Toyota's electric vehicle battery technology, while Toyota receives BMW diesel engines for its mainstream models. However, the diesels will not be supplied for use in Lexus vehicles, which compete directly with BMW's own premium offerings. Similarly, Toyota will not share its hybrid systems with BMW as part of this deal.
Toyota's European strategy and model development
Toyota Motor Europe will take increased responsibility for the development of models such as the Yaris, Auris and Avensis, with the revised Avensis already showing the impact of this shift. The 2014 Auris is set to benefit from these changes, with local input on design and engineering intended to better match European tastes and regulations. This approach is part of Toyota's wider plan to boost competitiveness in key European segments.
The Auris's adoption of a BMW diesel follows a trend among manufacturers seeking technical partnerships to address emissions, efficiency and customer demand. Mercedes-Benz, for example, has sourced Renault diesels for its compact models. For Toyota, the BMW engine is a step towards closing the gap with European rivals in a market where diesel remains a key factor for private and fleet buyers.
