Likes
- Typical Toyota build quality
- Excellent performance from the V6
- A more refined driving experience than an equivalent Ford or Holden
Used Toyota Aurion review
2012 - 2017
Dislikes
- Reports of some interior material wearing badly
- They retain their value (bad if you’re after a bargain)
- If fuel use matters to you, maybe go for a 4-cyl or hybrid Camry
Stuff you should know
The Toyota Aurion was a mid-size sedan manufactured by the Japanese automaker Toyota from 2006 to 2017. The second-generation Aurion was produced from 2012 to 2017 and received several updates and improvements during its production run.
The 2012 Toyota Aurion was launched with a refreshed exterior design featuring a new front grille, headlights, and taillights. The interior was also updated with new materials and technologies, including a touchscreen infotainment system with satellite navigation.
Under the hood, the Aurion was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 200kW and 336Nm of torque. The engine was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, which sent power to the front wheels. The Aurion was also available with a sports-tuned suspension and larger brakes, which improved its handling and stopping power.
In 2015, Toyota introduced a facelifted Aurion, which included updates to the exterior and interior styling. The new model featured a more aggressive front fascia, redesigned headlights, and new alloy wheels. The interior received a new steering wheel and an updated infotainment system with improved functionality.
The 2015 Aurion was also equipped with additional safety features, including a rearview camera, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. These features were added to the existing suite of safety features, which included stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes.
Overall, the 2012-2017 Toyota Aurion was a reliable and comfortable mid-size sedan that offered good performance and a range of features. Its stylish design, spacious interior, and advanced technologies made it a popular choice among buyers looking for a practical and stylish family car.
What goes wrong
Although no official recalls have been issued for the problem, owners have reported that sunroofs can rattle on earlier Aurions.
Owners have reported a persistent issue of a loud whirring noise during cold starts, which tends to last for approximately 10 minutes before subsiding.
Inside, there are reports that the dash can melt and deteriorate in harsh conditions, there was apparently an issue with glare as well as fumes in the cain from the dash. Allegedly, some owners received a free replacement for the affected cars.
The engine’s efficiency is significantly influenced by the quality of its oil, as per multiple owner accounts. Over time, oil tends to accumulate carbon deposits and unburnt fuel residues, resulting in the formation of a gel-like substance. This thickening of the oil, if not dealt with promptly, can lead to severe engine harm caused by lack of lubrication. It’s essential to follow the maintenance schedule and replace the engine oil on a regular basis.
Owners have complained about the ride quality of the Aurion, citing a harsh and inflexible driving experience caused by suspension.
Recalls:
- August 2012 – An official statement released by Toyota Australia suggests that there might be a problem with the fuel hose that connects the primary fuel supply line to the engine. As per the statement, the fuel hose could have been folded during the insertion of the connector, which could result in a tiny hole, potentially causing fuel leakage.
- 11 October 2012 – Reports indicate that the power window master switch located on the driver’s side may feel “sticky” when operated because of the uneven application of lubricating grease. Consequently, the internal sliding contact points might wear out over an extended period.
- 13 January 2016 – Several Toyota vehicles, including the Camry, Camry Hybrid, Aurion, Corolla, RAV4, and Yaris, were subject to a recall of their Power Window Master Switches due to a possible fire risk associated with the switches.
Although no official recalls have been issued for the problem, owners have reported that sunroofs can rattle on earlier Aurions.
Owners have reported a persistent issue of a loud whirring noise during cold starts, which tends to last for approximately 10 minutes before subsiding.
Inside, there are reports that the dash can melt and deteriorate in harsh conditions, there was apparently an issue with glare as well as fumes in the cain from the dash. Allegedly, some owners received a free replacement for the affected cars.
The engine’s efficiency is significantly influenced by the quality of its oil, as per multiple owner accounts. Over time, oil tends to accumulate carbon deposits and unburnt fuel residues, resulting in the formation of a gel-like substance. This thickening of the oil, if not dealt with promptly, can lead to severe engine harm caused by lack of lubrication. It’s essential to follow the maintenance schedule and replace the engine oil on a regular basis.
Owners have complained about the ride quality of the Aurion, citing a harsh and inflexible driving experience caused by suspension.
Recalls:
- August 2012 – An official statement released by Toyota Australia suggests that there might be a problem with the fuel hose that connects the primary fuel supply line to the engine. As per the statement, the fuel hose could have been folded during the insertion of the connector, which could result in a tiny hole, potentially causing fuel leakage.
- 11 October 2012 – Reports indicate that the power window master switch located on the driver’s side may feel “sticky” when operated because of the uneven application of lubricating grease. Consequently, the internal sliding contact points might wear out over an extended period.
- 13 January 2016 – Several Toyota vehicles, including the Camry, Camry Hybrid, Aurion, Corolla, RAV4, and Yaris, were subject to a recall of their Power Window Master Switches due to a possible fire risk associated with the switches.
Although no official recalls have been issued for the problem, owners have reported that sunroofs can rattle on earlier Aurions.
Owners have reported a persistent issue of a loud whirring noise during cold starts, which tends to last for approximately 10 minutes before subsiding.
Inside, there are reports that the dash can melt and deteriorate in harsh conditions, there was apparently an issue with glare as well as fumes in the cain from the dash. Allegedly, some owners received a free replacement for the affected cars.
The engine’s efficiency is significantly influenced by the quality of its oil, as per multiple owner accounts. Over time, oil tends to accumulate carbon deposits and unburnt fuel residues, resulting in the formation of a gel-like substance. This thickening of the oil, if not dealt with promptly, can lead to severe engine harm caused by lack of lubrication. It’s essential to follow the maintenance schedule and replace the engine oil on a regular basis.
Owners have complained about the ride quality of the Aurion, citing a harsh and inflexible driving experience caused by suspension.
Recalls:
- August 2012 – An official statement released by Toyota Australia suggests that there might be a problem with the fuel hose that connects the primary fuel supply line to the engine. As per the statement, the fuel hose could have been folded during the insertion of the connector, which could result in a tiny hole, potentially causing fuel leakage.
- 11 October 2012 – Reports indicate that the power window master switch located on the driver’s side may feel “sticky” when operated because of the uneven application of lubricating grease. Consequently, the internal sliding contact points might wear out over an extended period.
- 13 January 2016 – Several Toyota vehicles, including the Camry, Camry Hybrid, Aurion, Corolla, RAV4, and Yaris, were subject to a recall of their Power Window Master Switches due to a possible fire risk associated with the switches.
Should you buy it?
Simply put? Yes.
The Toyota Camry on which the Aurion is based has long been the epitome of solid, no-nonsense motoring. Adding a V6 to that recipe spiced up the offering and meant it could compete with cars like the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon. The 3.5-litre V6 in the Aurion is renowned for its longevity, much like anything with the Toyota badge.
The interior is spacious and family-friendly, and find a post-2015, high-spec model and you’ll find aids like a rear-view camera, seven airbags, traction and stability control, rear cross-traffic alert and lane departure warning.
Given some versions of the Aurion on the used market will be over 10 years old, it’s crucial to make sure any you’re looking at have a full and thorough service history and get a pre-purchase inspection done.
The Aurion isn’t the most fuel-efficient form of motoring, so if you don’t necessarily need the V6 powerplant, find a 4-cyl hybrid Camry.
Simply put? Yes.
The Toyota Camry on which the Aurion is based has long been the epitome of solid, no-nonsense motoring. Adding a V6 to that recipe spiced up the offering and meant it could compete with cars like the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon. The 3.5-litre V6 in the Aurion is renowned for its longevity, much like anything with the Toyota badge.
The interior is spacious and family-friendly, and find a post-2015, high-spec model and you’ll find aids like a rear-view camera, seven airbags, traction and stability control, rear cross-traffic alert and lane departure warning.
Given some versions of the Aurion on the used market will be over 10 years old, it’s crucial to make sure any you’re looking at have a full and thorough service history and get a pre-purchase inspection done.
The Aurion isn’t the most fuel-efficient form of motoring, so if you don’t necessarily need the V6 powerplant, find a 4-cyl hybrid Camry.
Should you buy it?
Simply put? Yes.
The Toyota Camry on which the Aurion is based has long been the epitome of solid, no-nonsense motoring. Adding a V6 to that recipe spiced up the offering and meant it could compete with cars like the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon. The 3.5-litre V6 in the Aurion is renowned for its longevity, much like anything with the Toyota badge.
The interior is spacious and family-friendly, and find a post-2015, high-spec model and you’ll find aids like a rear-view camera, seven airbags, traction and stability control, rear cross-traffic alert and lane departure warning.
Given some versions of the Aurion on the used market will be over 10 years old, it’s crucial to make sure any you’re looking at have a full and thorough service history and get a pre-purchase inspection done.
The Aurion isn’t the most fuel-efficient form of motoring, so if you don’t necessarily need the V6 powerplant, find a 4-cyl hybrid Camry.
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Models, pricing & features
Tech specs
Body Styles
4 door Sedan
ANCAP Ratings
5 stars – tested 2012 (AT-X, Touring, Prodigy, Presara, Sportivo SX6, Sportivo ZR6)
5 stars – tested 2014 (AT-X, Sportivo, Presara)
Engines
3.5 litre 6-cylinder engine
Power
200kW – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder engine
Torque
336Nm – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder engine
Transmissions
6-speed Sports Automatic
Fuel Consumption
9.3L/100km
Length
4835 – 4855mm (4 door Sedan)
Width
1825mm (4 door Sedan)
Height
1470mm (4 door Sedan)
Wheelbase
2775mm (4 door Sedan)
Kerb Weight
1525 – 1555kg (4 door Sedan)
Towing
500kg (unbraked), 1600kg (braked)
Body Styles
4 door Sedan
ANCAP Ratings
5 stars – tested 2012 (AT-X, Touring, Prodigy, Presara, Sportivo SX6, Sportivo ZR6)
5 stars – tested 2014 (AT-X, Sportivo, Presara)
Engines
3.5 litre 6-cylinder engine
Power
200kW – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder engine
Torque
336Nm – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder engine
Transmissions
6-speed Sports Automatic
Fuel Consumption
9.3L/100km
Length
4835 – 4855mm (4 door Sedan)
Width
1825mm (4 door Sedan)
Height
1470mm (4 door Sedan)
Wheelbase
2775mm (4 door Sedan)
Kerb Weight
1525 – 1555kg (4 door Sedan)
Towing
500kg (unbraked), 1600kg (braked)
Body Styles
4 door Sedan
ANCAP Ratings
5 stars – tested 2012 (AT-X, Touring, Prodigy, Presara, Sportivo SX6, Sportivo ZR6)
5 stars – tested 2014 (AT-X, Sportivo, Presara)
Engines
3.5 litre 6-cylinder engine
Power
200kW – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder engine
Torque
336Nm – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder engine
Transmissions
6-speed Sports Automatic
Fuel Consumption
9.3L/100km
Length
4835 – 4855mm (4 door Sedan)
Width
1825mm (4 door Sedan)
Height
1470mm (4 door Sedan)
Wheelbase
2775mm (4 door Sedan)
Kerb Weight
1525 – 1555kg (4 door Sedan)
Towing
500kg (unbraked), 1600kg (braked)
Warranty & servicing
Warranty
- 3 years / 100000 km
Service Intervals
- 15000 km / 9 months
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of March 28, 2023.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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