I've come to accept that some of the models in the Toyota line-up - notably the Yaris, Auris and Corolla - are simply different lengths of the same piece of string.
My recollections are similar on the whole after having driven all three of them extensively at different times: similar feel, similar handling, similar finish, similar emotion.
But the argument then is: is that necessarily a bad thing?
They're not quite blow-your-socks-off cars but you can never accuse them of being unreliable, unpopular, or not holding value.
Few manufacturers enjoy that type of public perception.
Be that as it may, I spent a good ten days with Auris' range-topping 1.8 RX - pronounced Aaw-ris, like your aunt Audrey.
This C-segment replacement for the Run-X goes head to head with mainstream competitors such as the Golf V and Ford Focus.
Under the hood there's the same 100kW mill as on the 1.8-litre Run-X but torque is up from 171Nm to 175, probably due to the new range of petrol engines being upgraded to dual variable valve timing.
Performance is spritely at best but I suspect this is due to the car being simply a little over-refined. It goes, but there's no real accompanying flair.
The exhaust seems muted, aural engine feedback is almost non-existent, wind noise is minimal, even the aircon fan pretends it's not there.
So you push along and, even if you get a little adventurous with your right leg, you know it may be a bit pointless.
Looks-wise there's no mistaking that the parents were first cousins. Let me rephrase that: park the Yaris and Auris next to each other and it's hard to ignore their common genealogy.
I'm willing to bet that few would to be able tell the difference between the two at a quick first glance from the front.
And in terms of a Corolla comparison, I've always preferred hatchbacks to sedans; they're more practical, generally look sportier, and usually attract a younger buyer (but there are those that defy nature and order the Yaris with a boot; go figure).
Eye-catching interior
The interior is a lot more eye-catching; we had the RX on test, with toys such as dual-zone automatic aircon, cruise control, rain and light sensors, a smart-entry key system and push-button start, full leather seating and knee and curtain shield crash bags front and rear.
The entry-key system is fancy, but the remote for my electric gate also dangles from my car keys - so I still have to find the keys to do the necessary.
Some manufacturers still give you the option of inserting the key into the traditional slot - which may not be a bad thing.
The other problem with keyless is that you have to watch the colour of the little light on the start button; when it's green you press it and voila, the car starts.
But if you just want the radio or the fan it gets complicated; you have to push the button once to get access to these devices (think first click on a normal key) but not with the clutch in or the light will be green and the car will start.
Right, now you try explaining that to Aunt Audrey.
Clear and purposeful display
I did enjoy the "Optitron" instruments with their amber backlighting. The LCD display is clear and purposeful, showing fuel level and coolant temperature, with options to check average speed and consumption.
The gearlever sits on top of the centre console and falls easily to hand although the handbrake looks a little out of place with its chrome-finished thumb switch.
Front and rear head and legroom is more than ample; there's no denying the Auris is airy and spacious for a C-segment competitor (it's wider than a Run-X, and was apparently designed from the inside out).
Being a family car, it gets a tick for nooks and crannies; the adjustable cup holder in the centre console did start rattling but is removable.
VERDICT
Toyota doesn't build bad cars, you know; I just wish it would build - or bring in - something that would lift and shift the hatch market.
I remember hearing about a supercharged Run-X that was breathed on by TRD (Toyota Racing Developments) and available as a production car overseas.
Surely there are plans for a supercharged Auris replacement lurking somewhere - why not bring it here to challenge the Golf GTi and Ford Focus ST? - Star Motoring