Toyota Aurion Review

The Toyota Aurion is here to show you what a smart, sophisticated family sedan can do. With Toyota's precision build quality and reputation for reliability, you just know they have cooked up something special with the Aurion.

Safety, efficiency, quietness and comfort are almost unbeatable with this Australian car, designed to tackle our unique landscape, while handling all of your shopping, parking and entertainment needs. It will always get you to your destination feeling fresh and on the go.

Next-level precision and quality

Toyota is arguably one of the most trusted brands in the world, and they got here by putting things together with laser precision and impeccable quality. Reliability, low servicing costs and longevity are all parts of the Toyota formula, which the Aurion delivers in style. The enormous touchscreen has up-to-date software, syncing up to your smartphone in a distraction-free way.

Crisp, easy-to-read instruments help you keep track of your speed and vital signs at a glance, while the easy steering and comfy seats will keep you totally relaxed. On some models, a 10-speaker JBL sound system gives you that concert feeling, powerfully doing justice to every note of your favourite ballad. A thoughtful electronic sunshade is available too, to keep our harsh Aussie sun at bay. 

The big car with a heart of gold

The Aurion's 5 star ANCAP score is one of the highest ever recorded by an Australian car, with a full complement of airbags, child restraint anchorages and an ultra-strong bodyshell made from high-tensile steel.

Aurion's advanced and efficient V6 engine has two characters. It can move you along with a fine level of quietness and velvety smoothness, but when you really plant your foot it is genuinely fast, with a very satisfying growl to it. It is rather fuel efficient most of the time, but if you often use the V6's huge grunt, expect to pay for it at the petrol pump.

While the colour palate of six hues is not huge in its variety, the choices on offer are rich and vibrant, from Magnetic Bronze that dances in harmony to our Australian sun, to Indigo Blue, a lustrous deep ocean tone that helps you stand out in traffic. 

Our verdict

You don’t have to drive the Aurion very far to fall for its charming V6 and accommodating luxury interior. Top-spec Aurion Presara makes for a fine luxury car. The atmosphere of the interior and cabin space are top notch, with lots of thoughtful inclusions. Sportivo models have sharper steering feel and sexy 18-inch wheels for a more playful side. While it lacks some of the latest features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and autonomous emergency braking, the Aurion is a superbly built, expensive-feeling car that is not too big, not too small but just right. 

5 specs you need to know:

1. Engine: 3.5-litre V6
2. Transmission and drive: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
3. ANCAP safety rating: Five Stars
4. Official fuel economy: 9.3L/100km (10L/100km during test)
5. Time from 0-100km/h: 6.6 seconds 

Pros

• Responsive and powerful V6
• Interior ambience and space
• Boosted safety tech for 2015; one of ANCAP’s safest-rated vehicles
• Toyota reliability and good servicing plan 

Cons

• Chassis dynamics and steering
• V6 can be thirsty
• No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto