TOYOTA Aurion
Generations Timeline, Specs and Pictures
Toyota tried different vehicles in different markets.
The Toyota Aurion was built for Australia and New Zeeland and it was based on the Toyota Camry platform, but with different styling and a bigger engine.
In 2006 the V6 Camry was no longer available in Australia and New Zeeland. It was offered only with a four-pot engine. In the same year, the first generation of the Aurion came on the market and it was offered with a supercharged engine. But the real V6 was shown with the second Aurion generation, in 2012.
Depending on the trim level, the Aurion had a sporty look and aggressive styling. The mesh-grille on the front and the scoops inside the front bumper improved the dynamic design of the car. Some of its cues were similar to other Toyota models from around the world. The cab-forward concept worked well on the Aurion, which was a front-wheel-drive car. And it was built in Australia.
In its top-spec trim level, the Presara, it featured an infotainment unit with a navigation system and a 7” touch-screen display. The interior space was especially roomy when it was compared with its main rivals such as the Holden Commodore and the Ford Falcon, which were its main rivals on the market. It featured some interesting amenities for a large car, such as the power-operated rear sun-shade that could soften the light from the rear window.
The Aurion was a Toyota Camry based sedan assembled by the Japanese car-maker in its factory from Altona, in Australia.
It was sold in other Asian countries as well.
While the Camry was already an established name on the Australasian market, Toyota decided to build an upscale version of it: the Aurion. The new vehicle featured a better engine and a new interior when compared with the already established Japanese sedan.
It was considered the Toyota’s flagship on the Australian market. Its taller front fascia than the one installed on the Camry was more commanding. The bigger grille with three horizontal, V-shaped, slats and a lower apron made it look more aggressive than the rather bland Camry. For the “Sportivo” trim level, a new spoiler, side sills, and rear wing on the trunk offered a sportier version.
Inside, the Aurion featured very large compartments, where it could hold up to six, 2-liter water bottles. The interior featured metallic and wood grain finishes, to enhance the visual appeal. Depending on the trim level, it featured flat, comfortable, seats, while the “Sportivo” level gained bucket-seats.
The engine compartment was filled with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that featured variable valve timing and ignition system (VVTI). It offered 270 hp and it was mated as standard with a 6-speed manual. A 6-speed automatic was on the options list.