Which Toyota hatchback name is based on Latin aurum, meaning gold?

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The Toyota hatchback whose name is based on Latin aurum, meaning gold, is the Auris.

Toyota introduced the Auris in 2006 as a compact model derived from the Corolla. Its name is based on aurum, the Latin word for gold, giving the hatchback a name distinct from the Corolla badge used on related saloon models in several markets.

In Europe, the Auris replaced the Corolla hatchback while the Corolla name continued for the sedan. The first generation was offered as a three- or five-door hatchback, and the second generation added a five-door estate called Touring Sports. Japan also received an Auris, where it succeeded the Allex and Corolla RunX.

A frequent source of confusion is Yaris, another Toyota hatchback with a similarly short, invented-sounding name. Vitz was the Japanese name used for the Yaris in several generations, while Allex was an earlier Corolla-based hatchback. Auris is the name specifically tied to aurum.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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