8 February 2011
In today's confusing car supermarket, where there seems to be an unlimited number of makes and models on offer, where do you start if you're in the market for a new car for the family or business?
Somewhere near the top of the list would surely be the Toyota showroom. With a well-earned reputation for reliability, build quality and value for money, it's no surprise that New Zealand's number 1 selling car brand is Toyota.
The Toyota Aurion AT-X we drove this week proved beyond all doubt that Toyota's quality reputation is well earned and justified. Given that Toyota is, and makes no apologies for being the biggest player in automotive mass-production, they could be excused for turning out a so-so product. But not so.
The Aurion is a curious mix of Japanese engineering coupled with design input and production courtesy of Toyota Australia. Using the popular and capable Camry as a platform, installing one of the quietest and smoothest engines available today, the 2GR-FE 3.5 litre V6 as used by Toyota's luxury arm, Lexus, mated to an impressive 6 Speed automatic transmission, the Aurion would have to rate right up there for over-delivering on expectation.
The Aurion is aimed right between the eyes of the fleet buyer. It is a popular alternative to the big Aussie sixes, Commodore and Falcon, in the rental and fleet market. So because rental firms and business users choose them, we could have been excused for expecting something a little bland. But, how wrong we were.
Given that our test car, the Aurion AT-X is the entry level model, the level of specification is impressive. For your $43,990, there's electrically adjustable driver's seat, ESP, front, side and curtain airbags as well as steering wheel mounted radio controls and cruise control.
In addition, some further enhancements have been made for the 2009 model, with the inclusion of an attractive boot spoiler and alloy wheels. There is also a sequential manual mode to the auto.
First impressions of the interior are of a well laid out cabin, clear, no-fuss switches and easy to use controls, free of unnecessary clutter. However, we did find the bright illumination on the centre display panel slightly distracting with the lights set to the auto function, as intensity continually changed when driving under Auckland's numerous motorway over-bridges.
Interior space is more than adequate, while not as cavernous as the Commodore or Falcon, there is plenty of room for 5 adults. The foot mounted parking brake is well located and functions well.
Performance is lively and responsive. The 204kW V6 performs effortlessly and the 6 speed automatic transmission is a delight.
Whether on smooth or course chip road surfaces, there is very little intrusive cabin noise other than a minimal amount of wind noise. For a biggish car, it feels quite nimble. Thanks to the taut Camry chassis, well damped McPherson strut suspension setup with integrated front and rear bracing, the Aurion suffers from none of the body roll associated with some large cars. Handling is precise and predictable and rough surfaces are soaked up admirably.
Summary
The Aurion AX-T was a car which exceeded our expectations in many departments. Although aimed at the fleet and rental market, private buyers looking for a spacious family car with plenty of power and good comfort levels won't be disappointed.
In reality, in terms of size it fits in somewhere between a mid-size and large-size car, but it does everything that most large car buyers would be looking for, and on the road it is better than most.
Toyota's reputation for bullet-proof reliability, coupled with the Aurion's very capable on-road performance and a high standard of fit and finish, translate into a car that is very worthy of consideration.
One thing is for sure, you do a lot worse than test drive this Aussie built Toyota.
Safety
Driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), Antilock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). 4 Star ANCAP Safety rating.
Technical
3.5 litre 2GR-FE DOHC V6 Engine with 6 speed automatic transmission, now with sequential manual mode. 204kW @ 6200rpm, 346Nm of torque @ 4700rpm. 4825mm long, 1820 wide, 1470mm high. Vented disc brakes front and rear.
Pricing
$43,990
Test Drive Top Tips
You can look forward to a pleasing driving experience. Minimum body roll for a car of this size and class, Silky smooth engine and transmission perform effortlessly. We loved the no fuss controls. Be prepared for a pleasant surprise.