Gundam Style 2013 Toyota Auris Hatchback

The new 2013 Toyota Auris was selected for a cosmetic tune dedicated to the anime cartoon, with the Japanese automaker's in-house tuning arm Modellista taking responsibility for the transformation.

Modellista chose Char Aznable, a fictional character from the Gundam franchise, as its inspiration for the re-styling of the new compact hatchback.

After fitting the car with an aero package consisting of a deep front apron with LED daytime lights, hood vents, rocker panels, a roof spoiler and a new rear bumper with a diffuser and quad tailpipes, Modellista then applied a foil wrap in red for the body and in carbon fiber for the roof.

The Auris Char Aznable rides on a set of black 18-inch alloy wheels and also features changes inside, including red accents on the dashboard, steering wheel hub and gear shifter.

The only mechanical upgrades made to the car are the sports exhaust system and a lower and stiffer suspension.

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2013 Toyota Auris Hatchback

In Japan, the Auris is available with a choice of two four-cylinder petrol engines. The base 1.5-liter unit produces 107hp (109PS) in the front-wheel drive (FWD) model and 103hp (105PS) when opted with AWD. This engine is linked exclusively to Toyota's Super CVT-i (Super Continuously Variable Transmission-intelligent) and can be optionally combined with a fuel-saving Start/Stop system.

The larger 1.8-liter unit is available only with FWD and generates 140hp (143PS) in all trims expect the RS Grade that gets a sports exhaust system to lift output to 143hp (144PS). Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual and the Super CVT-i.

Those looking for a sportier appearance can opt for the Modellista variants that are fitted with a grounds effect kit and larger alloy wheels or choose from a selection of accessories from the firm's TRD shop.

Toyota said it has set a monthly sales target for Japan of 2,000 units with prices ranging from 1,710,000 Yen to 2,250,000 Yen (US$21,600-28,400 / €17,300-22,800).

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