The styling changes include a new front mask, faster-acting LED stop and tail lamps, and new wheel designs across the range, including ten-spoke alloy wheels on entry-level AT-X.

Aurion’s new front mask includes new grade-specific bumpers, radiator grilles, lower aperture grilles, headlamps and foglamp surrounds (foglamps are fitted as standard on Prodigy, Sportivo and Presara models).

“The original Aurion face was a simple, yet bold, double-concave architecture,” said Toyota Australia senior executive director sales and marketing, Mr David Buttner. “The facelift design uses ‘X-Form’ architecture, bracketed by the chrome-framed fog lamps.

“The lower grille is now a trapezoid shape, enhancing the stance of the car. The design increases the feeling of prestige with more subtle, flowing surfaces between the basic elements, blending rather than intersecting.

“The grille is wider, with freeform lines and secondary elements to each bar, adding more intricacy and precision.

“The functional areas of the headlamps are captured in twin C-shape pockets, with three horizontal ribs running through the indicators – a cue echoed in the rear lamps.

“The rear lamps have evolved from the twin round design and direct LEDs to a parallelogram design and striking diffused LED illumination.”

The side of the car too is now cleaner and more modern with the removal of body-side mouldings, a look complimented by new 17-inch, split five-spoke alloy wheels on Sportivo SX6 and ZR6 models.

New interior colour combinations freshen cabin decor with Prodigy and Presara models gaining a new linear satin woodgrain finish. Remaining inside Toyota has also upgraded Aurion’s instruments, audio systems, lighting and in-cabin storage across the range.

Safety improvements include improved light distribution performance from Aurion’s low-beam headlamps – both halogen and high-intensity discharge (HID) type. In addition, Aurion Prodigy gains an electro-chromatic interior mirror, power rear sunshade and rain-sensing wipers.

Sportivo ZR6 has the added safety and convenience of heated exterior mirrors and auto-tilt exterior mirror on reverse. Driver’s seat and exterior mirror memory has also been adopted on Sportivo ZR6. Interior comfort improvements include adopting dual-zone climate controlled air-conditioning on Sportivo SX6.

Aurion’s audio systems have been upgraded across the board. All models now have a Bluetooth hands-free telephone kit and 3.5mm auxiliary audio input in the front centre-console box.

Prodigy and the two Sportivo grades have a new “display” audio system with 4.3-inch colour LCD display, reverse camera capability, six-CD multi-changer, USB/iPod auxiliary audio input, and Bluetooth telephone hands-free kit with microphone integrated into the facia.

This audio system is optionally available on AT-X grade.

Presara’s AVN satellite navigation audio has been refined with an additional two speakers (for a total of eight speakers including two dual-cone rear speakers) and auxiliary 3.5mm input. The AVN satellite navigation audio system is optionally available on Sportivo ZR6.

Aurion is still powered by Toyota’s powerful yet efficient 3.5-litre Dual VVT-i V6 engine that delivers 200kW of power via a six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy returns are just 9.9 L/100km.

Pricing for the new Aurion models is as follows:

• AT-X: $35,490
• Prodigy: $40,990
• Sportivo SX6: $39,990
• Sportivo ZR6: $42,990
• Presara: $49,990

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

The Aurion Touring Special Edition carries the same price tag as the entry-level Aurion AT-X sedan yet offers more than $2700 worth of additional standard equipment.

Matching the specifications of the AT-X, the Touring Special Edition adds 17-inch alloys wheels with a full-size spare, rear spoiler, a Sportivo radiator grille, sports headlamps, sports rear combination lamps, “50th Anniversary” decals and sports pedals.

Toyota has also included front foglamps as well as front and rear sonar parking sensors as standard features on the Aurion Touring SE.

Inside, the new models gains a six-disc CD changer, dual-zone climate-control for the air-conditioning, leather-bound four-spoke steering wheel, leather gear lever knob and a multi-information display.

The usual list of standard safety features have been maintained, including six airbags, vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-skid brakes and an adaptive six-speed automatic sequential-style gearbox.

The Aurion Touring Special Edition is available now from Toyota with a retail price of $34,990.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

2008 FG Ford Falcon G6E vs. Holden Calais V6 vs. Honda Accord V6 Luxury vs. Toyota Aurion Presara

• Introduction
• Ford Falcon G6E
• Holden Commodore Calais V6
• Honda Accord V6 Luxury
• Toyota Aurion Presara
• She Says
• Performance Figures
• Conclusion

Model tested: 2008 Ford Falcon G6E Recommended Retail Price: $46,990. Options fitted: None fitted.

Handling; engine and gearbox; rear leg room; price point

Non-flat boot floor; no xenon headlights

CarAdvice rating: (4.25)

-

Model tested: 2008 Holden Commodore Calais V6 Recommended Retail Price: $46,190 Options fitted: Metallic paint ($400).

Space, standard ESP, solid ride

No Sat/Nav or reversing camera, ‘poverty’ interior

CarAdvice rating: (3.00)

Model tested: 2008 Honda Accord V6 Luxury Recommended Retail Price: $46,990. Options fitted: None fitted.

Impressive handling; size; features

Sometimes heavy on fuel, too many buttons on centre console

CarAdvice rating: (4.15)

-

Model tested: 2008 Toyota Aurion Presara Recommended Retail Price: $49,490. Options fitted: None fitted.

Performance, plenty of luxury items, good safety equipment

Stodgy handling, generic interior styling, pricey

CarAdvice rating: (3.50)

- Review by Paul Maric, David Twomey and Matt Brogan, photography by Paul Maric.

Introduction:

In this day and age it is becoming increasingly difficult for car manufacturers to meet the demands of consumers. With petrol prices continually skyrocketing, pressure is on manufacturers to make fuel efficient cars, while still catering for size and performance.

In the first test of its kind in Australia, CarAdvice has pegged the rear-wheel-drive Falcon and Commodore against their Japanese front-wheel-drive rivals, the Accord V6 and Aurion.

The luxury variants chosen here will be popular amongst professionals and families with a luxury cruiser in mind.

After a week of extensive testing ranging from city driving to performance tests, we have determined a winner. The results are close but paint a clear picture of the current large car market in Australia.

Next page…

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

The survey took into account factors such as cost of finance, depreciation, scheduled services, registration, insurance, fuel and tyres in order to evaluate each vehicle.

It was found that the Toyota Aurion AT-X equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission costs an average of $226.20 per week to run – $13.24 less per week than its main rival, the VE Commodore Omega.

This figure equates to a cost difference of $688.47 per annum, with the AT-X already priced $1,635 below its main rival.

“Motorists are looking at running costs more closely than ever, so the RACV study underlines another dimension to Aurion AT-X ’s overall affordability as the least expensive vehicle to run in its class,” said Toyota Australia’s senior executive director sales and marketing, David Buttner.

From a field of five which took part in the same category – including an LPG-equipped Falcon and Dual Fuel Commodore – the Aurion AT-X also boasted the least depreciation, interest charges and total registration costs of any car in the survey.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Available for a limited time, the Special Edition Aurion Touring offers over $2,500 worth of added equipment above the equipment levels of the entry-level Aurion AT-X at no extra cost.

In addition to 16-inch alloy wheels which alone usually retail for $1,150 – the Aurion Touring also gains the following:

• six-disc CD changer
• front foglamps
• dual-zone climate-control
• leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever
• front and rear parking sonars
• trip computer

The Special Edition Aurion Touring is priced at $34,990 and features Toyota’s 3.5-litre Quad-Cam V6 engine developing 200kW of power at 6200rpm and 336Nm at 4700rpm on regular unleaded petrol.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

The models is based on the entry-level Aurion AT-X, but receives 16-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, leather steering wheel and gear lever.

The Touring also benefits from front and rear parking sonars, a six-disc CD changer, Optitron instruments, a multi-information dashboard display including trip computer and dual zone automatic air-conditioning.

The Aurion is powered by the most powerful engine in its class, a 3.5-litre Quad Cam V6 producing 200kW of power at 6200rpm and 336Nm of torque at 4700rpm on regular unleaded petrol. Power output rises to 204kW with premium unleaded fuel.

Power and fuel efficiency go hand in hand with fuel economy of just 9.9 litres of regular unleaded fuel per 100km, making the Aurion the only Australian-made big six to comply with Euro IV emissions.

All Aurion variants come with a six-speed automatic sequential gearbox and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC – ESP).

With 15,072 Aurions sold to August, the car currently owns 16.5 per cent share of the large car market.

The Toyota Aurion Touring SE has a recommended retail price of $34,990.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

The Aurion tested is the current model in the Australian market.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Toyota Aurion Review & Road Test

Test model: Toyota Aurion Sportivo ZR6

Options fitted: Moonroof and Satellite navigation at $4850 all up – these are the only options on the ZR6 and are good value when you consider some European car makers charge this much for Sat Nav alone.

Wheel and Tyre option you should have a peek at: You can get a set of “Kappa” 18” wheels fitted to the ZR6 with proper low profile 225/45 R18’s and at $1600 (wheels only) they really do set this car off. The standard 17” alloys on the ZR6 have been done to death by a number of car makers and don’t do the car justice.

Recommended retail price: $42,500 without the above options, but the Aurion range (with the same engine specs) kicks off with the AT-X at $34,990.On Road Price: Around $46,000 but it pays to shop around as you may be able to reduce the cost of the above options as I did with some dealers.

Warranty: 3 years or 100,000kms whichever comes first.

Where the car sits in the model line-up: second from the top with only the luxury trimmed Presara sitting above at $49,990.

“The competition includes Holden’s SV6 and Ford’s XR6, both good drives, but with 200kW, a healthy respect for fuel and Toyota’s badge of reliability, it would pay you to be a little more than curious”

It was never going to be a ‘shoe in’ for Toyota to compete in the large family car segment in Australia with the big six offerings from Ford and Holden given their domination in this sector for decades. It’s even tougher, when you are coming at the Aussie lads from the ‘performance badge’ side.But if you are Holden, Ford, Honda, Buick, Dodge or even Honda, Toyota is your worst nightmare when they decide to “really” go after a new market segment.

Quick Reference Guide:

• RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICE – $42,500
• PRICE AS TESTED – $47,305
• VEHICLE LAYOUT – Front engine, FWD, 5-pass, 4-door large sedan
• ENGINE – NEW 3.5-litre Quad Cam V6 with Dual VVT-i with Intelligent Electronic Throttle
• TRANSMISSION – Six-speed Automatic
• MAXIMUM POWER – 200kW@6200rpm
• MAXIMUM TORQUE – 336Nm@4700rpm
• 0-100 (km/h) – 7.42 sec
• MAX SPEED (km/h) – 228
• KERB WEIGHT (kg) – 1630
• WHEELBASE (mm) – 2775
• LENGTH (mm) – 4825
• HEIGHT (mm) – 1470
• LUGGAGE CAPACITY (litres) – 504
• TURNING CIRCLE – 11m
• FUEL TANK CAPACITY – 70 litres standard unleaded (91 RON ULP)
• FUEL ECONOMY COMBINED HWY/CITY (L/100km) – 9.9
• SAFETY (passive) – Dual front, side and curtain airbags
• SAFETY (active) – ABS, EBD, BA, Traction Control, VSC

By the end of 2007, Toyota will most likely be crowned the number one car manufacturer in the world edging out General Motors for the first time in history.

2007 (year only) projections indicate that by December they will have built close to 9.5 million cars and trucks worldwide. It’s truly a phenomenal figure when you ponder for a second or two and ask yourself how that’s possible when the company only started operations in 1938.

The reason is simple, they build the kind of passenger cars and commercial vehicles that the overwhelming majority of drivers think are the best value for money. And that brings us to the 3.5 litre V6 powered, 200kW Toyota Aurion. It essentially replaces the Avalon as a large car, capable of penetrating deep into Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon territory, something the vanilla flavoured Avalon was never going to do.

The Aurion Sportivo ZR6 which we tested, is the sports version which has been designed with similar principles to Ford’s XR6 and Holden’s SV6 in that they’re more about a sports ‘look’ than outright sports performance.

It’s not that any of these cars could ever be considered slow, far from it. It’s just that the power outputs on the ZR6 and the XR6 are the same across the model range while the SV6 gets a slight 15kW increase over the standard Omega 3.6-litre Commodore.

The Aurion was designed by Nick Hogios, an Australian who had ironically worked on the XR performance models of the BA series Falcon while at Ford Australia.

If you thought the Aurion looked a little like the Camry, you’d be spot on. In fact the doors, side windows, windscreen and roof panels are identical. The rest of the car’s panels though, are unique to the Aurion.

Toyota has decided that the Camry will be the four cylinder family car while Aurion badged cars will be V6 powered.

With 200kW and a respectable 336Nm of torque in a large five-seater car, the Sportivo ZR6 does measures up in a power stakes, no matter which way you dress it up. Its 5kW more than the SV6 and 10kW more than the Ford’s XR6 but more importantly, it weighs in at 1630kg which is significantly lighter than both its Aussie rivals.
With a large chunk of the initial advertising focused squarely on the 200kW figure, the first thing you want to do when you settle into the Aurion Sportivo ZR6 is well… see if it goes!

Dropping the accelerator pedal won’t push you back in the seat as you might have expected with this much power, but it will get you from 0-100km/h in just on 7.4 seconds with a definite urgency. The fairly average torque figure dialled into this car is one reason for the lack of instant surge down low, and the fact the full 336Nm is not available until you hit 4700rpm, is another. On the other hand, the Ford and Holden lads mentioned above, get their full dose of torque coming on song at around 2500rpm and 2600rpm respectively and that’s where the difference lies.

What is noticeable behind the wheel of the ZR6 is how smooth and unruffled the engine is under full load. Even better, when it’s mated to the Aurion’s velvety six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shifting. It’s as good if not better, than many of the European cars with similar outputs.

Occasionally though, when climbing hills, the gearbox will repeatedly kick down a ratio in the interest of maintaining a desired speed despite its artificial intelligence (AI) feature. It’s a characteristic common to quite a few multi ratio gearboxes these days, and again, usually due to not enough torque available at some throttle points.

It’s no big deal though, and can be dealt with effectively in the Aurion by using the sequential shift feature, which allows the driver to pretty much control time spent in each gear ratio which can be held to near redline, if required.

All this power in a relatively small engine means cutting edge technology. Up front, is a newly developed 3.5-litre Quad Cam V6 which has been developed to provide maximum power with maximum fuel efficiency. You can pretty much bank on this powerplant given that you’ll also find it (a version of at least) in the Lexus IS350 which will be available in Australia later this year.

Unlike many Toyota vehicles, all cars in the Aurion range comes packed with standard features which will put Falcon and Commodore on notice.

Standard luxury features in the ZR6 include; power everything (including front driver and passenger seats), Dual zone climate control air conditioning, Cruise Control, 6 speaker CD changer sound system with MP3 (but no auxiliary input jack for ipods etc – this system is average quality only), perforated leather Sports seats and door trim – these are particularly comfortable), Front and rear parking sensors, Smart entry and push button start (same as Lexus – so you just need to have the key fob on your person and then hit the start button).

There’s also a host of safety features built into the car and these include; Vehicle Stability control, Traction Control, Anti-Lock Brake System, Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist along Dual front, side and curtain airbags.

You also get Sports LED taillights (super bright even in daylight), Optitron driver gauges (clearly visible in sunshine glare), Sports leather steering wheel and shifter, Alloy sports pedals with Sportivo front and rear metal scuff plates.

The ZR6 and SX6 representing the “testosterone lite” models in the Aurion line-up share an identical dress code with 17” alloys, a rear spoiler, different headlight and taillight designs, a sports body kit and grill along with underbody aerodynamics borrowed from Toyota’s Formula One knowledge.

Running 17” alloys is fine although, I thought these two sports models might be blessed with 18 inch rims but what is disappointing is that you have to live with not so wide 215/55’s, hardly a respectable footprint for a 200kW, ZR6 badge car!

These two sports models might have the look but there’s no additional power or engine modification. If you’d like that too, then you just might be in luck. Toyota has been previewing the Aurion Sports Concept. It’s a much more aggressively styled car that looks to be “all show and all go” with a supercharged 3.5-litre engine and a predicted power output of around 250kW. Whoosh!

Travelling as fast as you are legally permitted on our modest highway system will provide no cause to crank the volume up on the sound system – wind and road noise are non-existent at these speeds due to the refinement and build quality of this car.

Fortunately, the ZR6 is has been graced with some performance handling bits that ensure minimal body roll on turn in when negotiating twisty sections.

All Aurion models come standard with a rear brace behind the rear seat which adds welcomed body stiffness when cornering.

For additional rigidity, the two Sportivo models get additional underbody stabilising braces at the rear together with a rear floor undercover which helps keep the rear end on the road and out of trouble. One problem though. These braces mean that there is no 60/40 split rear fold feature, ditto on the Mitsubishi 380.

Naturally there are stiffer damper, springs and stabiliser bar settings which work in concert with some quality Micheline tyres around the 17” five-spoke alloys to provide the grip.

Although the ZR6 and SX6 have been given the sports suspension treatment you would hardly call it firm and that’s not a bad thing. I drove the car on a wide variety of roads and road surfaces at various speeds and in all cases, the car drove and cornered with confidence, never once becoming unsettled. The standard bumps and potholes were simply swallowed up by this suspension set up.

Steering is reasonably well weighted although it wouldn’t hurt to reduce the boost a little more on these sports models.

As a point of interest, some car makers now offer variable power steering settings which allow you to adjust the level of boost depending on the sort of terrain you are driving on.

Brake pedal pressure is surprisingly good in the ZR6 despite using single piston calipers front and rear although, there is a feast of brake assistance acronyms to pull this car up in the shortest possible distance in most conditions.

Previous Camry’s were sold on the back of reliability and resale values with buyers foregoing any inkling of styling. While we liked the new Camry, the Aurion Sportivo ZR6 adds some design tweaks that place it side by side or ahead of the SV6 and XR6.

Not the least of which are the large twin oval chrome exhaust tips and black mesh grille, which continues down onto the lower front air dam.

Also worth a mention are the turn indicator lights, built into each side mirror and similar to many European marques. I’m truly mystified as to Holden and Ford’s take on this popular styling cue, given its simplicity and air of prestige it adds to those cars and SUV’s which have adopted it.

Amazingly, Ford employs this feature on one vehicle only, the Escape SUV. Holden, not a whole lot more creative, have it on the top spec Rodeo (yes, the workhorse) and Captiva. Go figure!

The Stylemeisters have had their way with the Aurion’s interior too. Metallic accents are awash in this car along with a tasteful blend of reasonable quality plastics and fabrics, although still some way short of those found in most German cars.

The switchgear and blue tinted dash panels ooze quality and of course, it all functions flawlessly. I particularly like the Optitron instrument dials which are super bright and legible even in skin scorching sunlight. They were first introduced in Lexus cars a few years ago and have found their way into the Aurion range. Its one of the advantages Toyota has over other mass market car makers and frankly, the more Lexus bits, the better.

If you occasionally feel the need for some spirited driving, then you’ll enjoy the gear position indicator when using the sequential shift function hopefully on some deserted, winding road.

Not only will the Aurion accommodate 5 large adults in comfort, there’s a tonne of storage space throughout the car with the usual cup holders and hidden compartments front and back.

If you’ve been holding off on those Sunday drives with the family, you might just reconsider if you’re lucky enough to end up in an Aurion. Fuel consumption in this 200kW family express is rated at 9.9 litres/100km combined highway/city, which is exceptional given the car’s size and performance.

If I were buying on looks alone, I’d probably opt for Holden’s SV6. If on the other hand, if I wanted the best overall sports package – then my money would be on the ZR6

Anthony Crawford

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Toyota’s image isn’t the best, obviously they’ve never looked through a Bob Jane T-mart magazine, but nonetheless, the 18s combined with low-profile tyres help make the aurion look just a little more sporty, and of course you can always impress your mates!

Other styling accessories include a rear spoiler, which further enhances the sporting appearance of the Aurion, in addition to the Aurion-branded scuff plates (already available on the Camry Sportivo). Toyota says all these extra genuine accessories will help preserve potential resale value.

“Toyota Genuine Accessories are tailored to fit Toyota models,” said Gary Nettle, Corporate Manager, Sales and Marketing, Toyota Customer Services Division.

“When creating accessories our designers give strong consideration to the specific engineering of the Toyota models concerned.”

Aurion owners can also now add ParkAssist reverse-parking sensors, these sensors emit audible warning tones to help drivers reverse safely and to minimise damage, ensuring greater confidence when manoeuvring into tight spaces. A great little toy even for the most skillful driver.

Of course, there is nothing like an optional upgrade than a stereo system, and Toyota has brought out two upgrade kits:

• a Satellite Navigation Audio System featuring four-in-dash MP3-compatible CD Changer and Radio,
• or a six-in-dash MP3-compatible CD Changer and Radio.

I have to admit, with the Aurion looking more and more like another Avalon, the resell value of these cars isn’t going to be affected too much by the addition of 18″ wheels and a spoiler. Infact if anything, I would recommend sticking with the standard wheels till the tyres are ready for replacement and then buying a set of aftermarket 18″ wheels (with tyres) for a much more reasonable price!

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

The judges of the 2006 Australia’s Best Cars awards have rated the Toyota Aurion AT-X ahead of rivals including the Holden Commodore Omega, Ford Falcon XT and Mitsubishi 380 ES. They said Aurion rated highest or equal highest in its class for safety, the environment, performance, ergonomics, build and finish quality, smoothness and comfort, ride and braking.

Toyota Australia’s senior executive director sales and marketing, David Buttner, said the Best Cars Australia award for Aurion was important because of the auto clubs’ strong influence with consumers.

“The auto clubs are telling Australian motorists that Aurion is the best choice in the market if they’re looking for a large car,” Mr Buttner said.

“The ability to develop and produce the award-winning Aurion shows that Toyota has truly come of age in Australia.”

Best Cars Australia chief judge Ernest Litera praised Aurion’s high-tech 200kW 3.5-litre engine, six-speed automatic transmission and extensive safety equipment.

“It’s a terrific well-rounded package of technology and refinement,” Mr Litera said.

“This big Toyota handles capably and predictably, even on gravel roads. It offers nicely weighted steering, high grip levels and benign balance. Overall, it is well rounded, quiet and suitably ocker in personality.”

Mr Litera also said Toyota had not adopted “cynical marketing measures” to withhold key features from the car’s standard equipment list.

“Entry-model buyers especially will benefit from life-saving technology such as electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes and six airbags,” he said.

So if your wondering why I think the Australia’s Best Cars awards are worth more than Drive and CarsGuide (or even our own car of the year award if we had one) then let me explain. These awards are decided by judges from the auto clubs

• NRMA,
• RACV,
• RACQ,
• RAA,
• RACWA,
• RACT
• and AANT -

who represent almost seven million members across Australia.
Mr Buttner said the award would be shared by everyone at Toyota including staff at the Altona manufacturing plant in Melbourne, designers and engineers and the dealer network.

“Aurion, which has been on sale for just over a month, will contribute to Toyota’s all-time sales record this year of at least 210,000 vehicles – the highest by any company,” Mr Buttner said.

“Toyota is well-placed to win the triple crown in 2006 – overall market leadership and number one in both car sales and commercial-vehicle sales.

“If that happens, it will be the first time Toyota has achieved the trifecta – and the first time in close to 30 years that any other company has done it,” he said.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

So I reiterate the question, are Ford and Holden really scared of Toyota’s new almighty Aurion? Hell yes. It should be obvious to most people that buying a Ford Falcon or a Holden Commodore is like buying a your clothes from Lowes. Its boring, its uninspiring and it means you have absolutely no taste or sense of individualism whatsoever. Is the Aurion going to cure this? Probably not, but it goes a long way.

Holden had been pimping the Holden VE Commodore and WM Statesmen & Caprice range for some time before their release. The car that would change the Commodore’s image as a boring, fleet car. Did it work? Not really, I admit, the SS Commodore and the HSV VE range of cars look a lot better than their predecessors, but then again, for the price of an SS Commodore, there is so much more choice.

So now enters the all the Toyota Aurion, powered by a 200kW engine and achieving a fuel economy of under 10L/100km (Commodore vs Aurion fuel consumption), on paper it seems like its the best car you can buy for your money. In reality? I can’t say, we are working hard to get our hands on the Toyota Aurion for a test drive, that should happen soon, in the mean time, how are the guys at Ford and Holden going to combat the Aurion?

I mean how can you advertise against the Aurion? 200kw, 9.9L/100km fuel economy, and for once, it even looks good! Where does it fall? Its a front-wheel-drive. This isn’t to say that it doesn’t handle well or that its any less of a car compared to the falcon or commodore, but its different, and I am forever amazed as to why Toyota wont just bite the bullet and go rear-wheel-drive in order to create a truly better competitor to Ford and Holden.

Where else does the Toyota Aurion fall? Think about it, as a private buyer these days, when you go shopping for a family car, do you really wanna be just another Commodore or Falcon driver? Now if I extend that to, do you really wanna be a Toyota driver? How many people are willing to stand up and say yes to that? Why wouldn’t you go for a Honda Accord or a Subaru Liberty or heck even a BMW? Money off course! Why waste money on a Honda, Subaru or BMW when I can get a cheap Ford, Holden and now Toyota.

Well my friends, you should read about the depreciation of Australian vehicles. Whilst you save a few thousand dollars to begin with, the value of your beloved Commodore or Falcon depreciates so much in the first few years that you would have really been better of with the Honda or Subaru. What about the Aurion? Hows does that fare when it comes to depreciation? No one really knows yet, but if we look at the Toyota Camry, a base model 2005 Toyota Camry Altise Sedan (4dr Man 5sp 2.4i) has dropped around $7,000 of its value in just a year! Off course you have to take account the introduction of the new Camry this year, but nonetheless its not good! If you think about, $7000 in a year works out to nearly $20/day in depreciation!

Will the Aurion be a success? Only time will tell. Will it scare Holden and Ford and cause them to rethink their family sedans? Most probably, but only to the extent of adding some more features and perhaps realizing that a V6 (or inline 6 for the falcon) matched a four-speed auto is not what the Australian public is after. Nevertheless but if I was hedging my bets, I would really hope that the Australian car buyers wake up and realize that there is so much more choice now than ever before! Give the non-traditional family car a chance, they will surprise you!

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Toyota says that come the 5th of November (Sunday), they are going ballistic with TV/Radio/Paper/Street Signs/ Web ads for the Aurion prior to its launch later in the year. The main aim and focus of the new ads is to let everyone know that “the game has changed“.

The TV commercial devised by Saatchi & Saatchi, will feature during Toyota’s flagship sponsored program 60 Minutes on the Nine Network. Other networks will run 60-second versions, also from Sunday night. Dominating the TVC is a posse of helicopters patrolling above city streets at night – enacting a modern version of the game Spotlight.

The helicopters and their spotlights zero-in on all those cars that can’t avoid the light – those that haven’t changed with the times (you can bet these are Commodores and Falcons). They are eliminated from the game because they are found to be too cumbersome, use too much fuel or lack dynamic abilities – unlike the Aurion that “conquers” the city and wins the game.

Toyota Australia divisional manager sales and marketing Matthew Callachor said the TVC highlights the fact that Aurion has the most power and best fuel economy among naturally aspirated Australian six-cylinder cars.

“The Australian large-car market has been much the same for more than 40 years – dominated by just two players,” Mr Callachor said.

“We’re letting the market know that, with Aurion, there’s a new player in the game – and that the game has changed. No longer are Aussie large-car buyers limited to the cars their dad bought or what won at Bathurst.

“It’s no longer enough just to have brute force. You have to have both power and economy; you have to have performance and control. In addition, safety, reliability and the environment really matter in today’s world.

“Aurion was designed and engineered to deliver on the unique demands of Australian large-car buyers – and it’s built here in Australia. It’s the modern alternative to the traditional Aussie six-cylinder car and we think it will appeal to the 80 per cent of potential business and private buyers in this large market segment.”

Shooting the 90-second TVC involved five helicopters plus a camera helicopter, five 35mm cameras placed strategically around the city, a crew of 153, more than 100 extras and two directors. Some scenes involving helicopter footage were computer-generated.

Toyota somehow managed to convinced 269 building owners in the Wellington CBD to leave their lights on for the five nights to create the stunning city-and-bay skyline seen in the TVC – a scene not dissimilar to Manhattan. Mr Callachor said the marketing campaign and “the game has changed” theme were based on research with large-six owners and intending purchasers.

The new TVC was heralded by two 15-second “introductory” TVCs that aired from last Sunday (29 October). This ended a series of teaser ads that have played over the past nine months – possibly the longest pre-campaign in Australia’s automotive history.

Mr Callachor said the Aurion campaign is comprehensive and includes a “media first” – full wraparounds of selected newspapers from 5 November. Saatchi & Saatchi executive creative director David Nobay said it was clear from day one that this was going to be a special launch.

“The communication is ultimately only as powerful as the promise – and with the new Aurion we had one hell of a promise,” Mr Nobay said.

“Our confidence in the new Aurion has been translated to a very bold campaign. The campaign is a powerful demonstration of single-minded integration, too, with a myriad of touch points all banging home the message with equal confidence.

“Using an unsigned (so far!) Aussie band from Bondi called Sound Casino to create our theme was a great accent on our idea – pure Aussie talent, but so much fresher than the usual ‘car-ad rock’ fare.”

If your really keen to know, details of the media campaign are outlined below

TV

• 3 x teaser TVC (February-October 2006)
• 2 x 15-second “introduction” TVC (from 29 October)
• 90-second launch TVC, 60 Minutes (5 November)
• 60-second launch TVC on all networks (two weeks, from 5 November)
• 2 x 30-second TVC (ongoing)
• 3 x 15-second TVC (ongoing)

Print

• Wraps of selected newspapers and sports sections of major newspapers throughout Australia
• Ownership of official magazine of Australian International Motor Show
• Comprehensive schedule

Street signage

• “Live” billboard – real car used in front of billboard, Sydney Airport
• Signs pointing to Australian International Motor Show
• “Landmark” outdoor billboard sites

Online

• Banner ads using the Spotlight creative
• Microsite – aurionV6.com.au

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

1. AT-X $34,990
2. Sportivo SX6 $38,500
3. Prodigy $39,500
4. Sportivo ZR6 $42,500
5. Presara $49,990

All Aurion models have the 200kW dual-VVT-i engine, sequential style shift function on the ECT, six SRS airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), and ABS with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) – known as AB-i or Active Braking with intelligence.

They also have:

1. factory-fitted air conditioning with pollen filter
2. power driver’s seat (slide, recline, height and lumbar support adjustment)
3. telescopic as well as tilt steering adjustment
4. steering wheel-mounted audio controls
5. in-dash auto shift position indicator
6. map lamps
7. impact-sensing fuel cut-off
8. cruise control
9. power windows and mirrors
10. remote central locking
11. security alarm
12. auto headlamps-on
13. dual exhaust
14. adjustable rear ventilation vents
15. front seat-back pockets
16. dual centre console storage panel
17. folding rear-seat centre armrest with two cupholders
18. MP3/WMA CD audio capability and lockable rear seat centre access hatch to the boot

These features are standard equipment in AT-X grade. AT-X’s equipment also includes projector-type low-beam headlamps, rear LED combination lamps, Optitron meters, 16-inch diameter steel wheels and six-speaker audio system with CD/tuner.

AT-X options are 16-inch alloy wheels, the combination of alloy wheels and rear wing spoiler, and metallic paint.

Prodigy standard features over AT-X include:

1. dual-zone auto air conditioning with external temperature reading
2. push-button heater/ventilation controls and LCD HVAC display
3. Premium Optitron instruments
4. 16-inch alloy wheels
5. front foglamps
6. chrome radiator grille insert and inside door handles
7. leather seat and door trim
8. woodgrain inserts in the instrument panel and centre console
9. six-CD in-dash multi-changer
10. six-way power-adjustable front-passenger seats (including lumbar support)
11. multi-function trip computer
12. four-spoke leather-bound steering wheel with multi-info controls
13. leather gear shift knob
14. flocked pillar garnishes
15. body-coloured mudflaps
16. tilt-adjustable front head restraints
17. clearance and rear reversing sonar

Two options are offered for Prodigy – the combination of moonroof, personal rear lamps and sunvisors with lamps, and metallic paint.

Sportivo SX6 standard features over AT-X include:

1. sports suspension and additional rear bracing
2. 17-inch alloy wheels with Michelin tyres
3. sports headlamps and rear combination lamps
4. sports radiator grille
5. front foglamps
6. rear wing spoiler
7. alloy-look sports pedals
8. aero kit (front bumper/spoiler, side skirts, rear skirt)
9. sports front seats with “Atomic” fabric
10. black sports interior trim
11. multi-function trip computer
12. three-spoke leather-bound steering wheel with multi-info controls
13. leather gear shift knob
14. additional underbody aerodynamic enhancements
15. six-CD in-dash multi-changer
16. external temperature reading
17. “Sportivo” metallic front and rear door scuff plates
18. premium Optitron instruments
19. net-type front seat-back pockets
20. alloy spare wheel
21. metallic-look finish on instrument panel and doors

Options for Aurion SX6 are the combination of moonroof, rear personal lamps and lamps for the vanity mirrors, and metallic paint.

Sportivo ZR6 has the additional features, over SX6, of:

1. dual-zone auto air conditioning
2. push-button HVAC controls and LCD HVAC display
3. black leather “Crossbar” seat trim
4. leather door trim with metallic-look highlights
5. two front and four rear clearance and reversing sonars
6. six-way adjustable power front passenger’s seat
7. smart entry (including boot release) and push start
8. chrome inside door handles
9. metallic/mica paint

Sportivo ZR6’s options are the combination moonroof, rear personal lamps and lamps for the vanity mirrors, and the same combination with the addition of Bluetooth-enabled AVN Satellite Navigation.

Top-of-the-range Presara includes the following features, over and above Prodigy grade:

1. 17-inch alloy wheels with Michelin tyres
2. spare alloy wheel
3. HVAC and Bluetooth controls on steering wheel
4. exterior chrome door handles
5. sunvisors with lamps
6. telematics with three-year service subscription
7. electro chromatic interior rear-view mirror
8. rain-sensing windscreen wipers
9. reverse camera
10. driver’s seat and exterior mirror position memory (two settings)
11. auto-tilt exterior mirrors on reverse
12. smart entry (including boot release) and Push start
13. AVN Satellite Navigation with Bluetooth
14. metallic/mica paint
15. power rear sunshade
16. auto-levelling HID headlamps with washers
17. Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS)
18. four-spoke leather and woodgrain steering wheel
19. front and rear door “Aurion” scuff plates
20. chrome rear garnish
21. moonroof

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The engine develops 200kW of power at 6200rpm and 336Nm of torque at 4700rpm on regular unleaded petrol. It has ADR 81/01 fuel economy of just 9.9 litres of 95-octane unleaded fuel per 100km. Power output rises to 204kW with 95-octane unleaded fuel.

All grades of Aurion are fitted with a six-speed automatic sequential gearbox.All Aurion grades are also equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Aurion is the only Australian-made big six to comply with Euro IV emissions.

Aurion scores four stars on the Federal Government’s Green Vehicle Guide – better than any of its six-cylinder rivals in the VFACTS large passenger category. The Aurion V6 range starts at $34,990 (RRP*) – a price that includes the

• 200kW V6 engine,
• adaptive electronic six-speed automatic transmission,
• six SRS airbags,
• Vehicle Stability Control,
• Traction Control
• Anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

Standard features also include

• air conditioning,
• power driver’s seat,
• cruise control,
• power windows and mirrors,
• remote central locking,
• dual exhaust
• security alarm.

Toyota Australia’s senior executive director sales and marketing, David Buttner, said Aurion – built at the company’s Altona manufacturing plant in Melbourne – defines Toyota’s view of the future for Australian six-cylinder cars.

“Aurion is a value-for-money Aussie car that is better priced and better equipped than its major VFACTS large passenger car class competitors, It has more power than the naturally aspirated six-cylinder rivals in its class and better fuel economy than any of the large-six competitors in its class.

“Aurion has been developed for the benefit of Australian families and others who need a large six-cylinder car. It is styled for Australian tastes, tuned for Australian driving preferences, and has the power and comfort required for driving vast distances.

“At the same time, it is endowed with technology that ensures excellent fuel economy, with high levels of active and passive safety features as standard equipment on all models.” He said.

Aurion’s V6 engine features dual VVT-i technology that varies the timing of both the inlet and exhaust valves, providing optimum power and economy. It is mated to an electronic six-speed automatic transmission with a sequential gearshift.

The transmission uses artificial intelligence to adapt shift points to the driver’s style and road conditions. Aurion has been engineered to deliver the handling stability, steering response and ride comfort demanded by Australian large-car buyers.

Toyota achieved these requirements by producing a car with a visually low-slung, wide-wheeled and aggressive stance. Building on the car’s large footprint, Aurion features keep the car level during acceleration and braking. Two Sportivo models in the range feature sports suspension settings and a full body kit.

Aurion takes advantage of the packaging efficiency of its front-engine/front-wheel-drive design to achieve a virtually flat rear floor, providing ample space for three adult passengers in the rear. Noise insulation materials ensure the cabin is very quiet. Aurion is produced on Toyota’s world-leading flexible manufacturing system at Altona, alongside four-cylinder Camry models. Both cars are built for the domestic and export markets.

Aurion pricing

AT-X $34,990
Sportivo SX6 $38,500
Prodigy $39,500
Sportivo ZR6 $42,500
Presara $49,990

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Toyota claims that the new Aurion will produce an enormous 200kW in power whilst having a 9.9L/100km fuel rating. If this is the case, it will put it infront of the Holden Commodore AND the Ford Falcon by leaps and bounds.

Given the 200kW, the Toyota Aurion V6 will be the most powerful naturally aspirated locally-built 6 cylinder vehicle in Australia. If that wasn’t enough, Toyota’s figures are achieved using regular unleaded petrol, since the figure climbs to 204kW with premium unleaded petrol. Still using just 9.9litres/100km.

Toyota really likes to compare the Aurion with its main competitor, the Holden VE Commodore. Toyota is quick to point out that the recently launched VE Commodore uses over 9% more fuel without achieving the power output of the Aurion.

So how will the Aurion V6 achieve these seemingly contradictory figures?

Its become a fashion statement these days for any car manufacturer that has anything todo with Formula one to use their links to sell their every day cars. Toyota is no different. Toyota claims that the Aurion will boast an F1 inspired, technologically advanced 3.5L quad cam V6 with Dual VVT-i, which elevates power output whilst optimising fuel efficiency.

Also the 6-speed automatic transmission that allows the big V6 to use its power reserves more wisely. And not only that, this 6-speed, sequential-style automatic transmission will be the offered across the entire range. In the past, these transmissions have only been offered in performance or luxury variants of Big Aussie 6s.

Aurion V6 promises to be a true home grown success story having been designed and engineered for Australia’s unique conditions. Build quality will be another standout feature with Aurion V6 being assembled at Toyota’s state of the art Altona plant in Melbourne. Aurion’s unique combination of performance and fuel economy is set to make new standard for the Big Aussie 6 market.

Personally, I have this before, the Toyota Avalon comes to mind. Nonetheless, the Aurion should be a very interesting car. What still amazes me is how many car manufacturers are still hedging their bets on family cars and not concentrating enough on the small/medium segment. Then again, Toyota already leads the medium car segment with the Corolla so the Aurion is simply to take market away from the Commodore.

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This will make Aurion the most powerful vehicle ever sold by Toyota in Australia – and more powerful than its naturally aspirated six-cylinder competitors in the large-car market. It will also be the most fuel-efficient six-cylinder car in the segment, consuming just 9.9 litres/100km, based on the official combined cycle (city/highway ADR81).

Aurion’s fuel economy will be at least nine per cent better than the Holden VE Commodore. Toyota Australia will build Aurion at its Altona plant in Melbourne. The vehicle will go on sale later this year and will be Euro IV-compliant for emissions.

Toyota Australia senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner said Aurion’s unique combination of performance and fuel efficiency would set a new standard in the Aussie ‘big six’ market.

“Aurion will be a great alternative to the current range of six-cylinder family cars,” Mr Buttner said. “Among the Aussie six-cylinder family cars, it will be the leader in performance, delivering the power demanded by Australia’s large-car motorists.

“At the same time, it will achieve fuel efficiency that can’t be matched by its large six-cylinder competitors.“

Other locally built six-cylinder models in the large-car segment develop maximum outputs of between 175kW and 195kW.

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