Likes

  • Typical Toyota build quality
  • Excellent performance from the V6
  • A more refined driving experience than an equivalent Ford or Holden

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.

Need help with finance?

What is the car's build year?

2020

Loan Amount

$5,000

Finance estimate ~

$30

Per week*

8.49%

Comparison rate p.a#

Models, pricing & features

Toyota Aurion-13

AT-X

Price when new: $36,490

Price used: $6,100 - $18,800

Standard equipment:

12V Socket(s) – Auxiliary
16″ Alloy Wheels
6 Speaker Stereo
ABS (Antilock Brakes)
Adjustable Steering Col. – Tilt & Reach
Air Cond. – Climate Control 2 Zone
Air Conditioning – Rear
Airbag – Driver
Airbag – Knee Driver
Airbag – Passenger
Airbags – Head for 1st Row Seats (Front)
Airbags – Head for 2nd Row Seats
Airbags – Side for 1st Row Occupants (Front)
Alarm – Personal Safety (Panic)
Armrest – Rear Centre (Shared)
Audio – Aux Input Socket (MP3/CD/Cassette)
Audio – Aux Input USB Socket
Audio – Input for iPod
Audio – MP3 Decoder
Bluetooth System
Body Colour – Bumpers
Body Colour – Door Handles
Body Colour – Exterior Mirrors Partial
Bottle Holders – 1st Row
Bottle Holders – 2nd Row
Brake Assist
CD Player
Camera – Rear Vision
Central Locking – Once Mobile
Central Locking – Remote/Keyless
Chrome Door Handles – Interior
Chrome Grille
Chrome Rear Garnish
Clock – Digital
Control – Electronic Stability
Control – Traction
Cruise Control
Cup Holders – 1st Row
Cup Holders – 2nd Row
Disc Brakes Front Ventilated
Disc Brakes Rear Solid
Door Pockets – 1st row (Front)
Door Pockets – 2nd row (rear)
EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution)
Electric Seat – Drivers
Engine Immobiliser
Exhaust – Stainless Steel Dual System
Headlamps Automatic (light sensitive)
Headrests – Adjustable 1st Row (Front)
Headrests – Integrated 2nd Row
Illuminated – Entry/Exit with Fade
Independent Front Suspension
Intermittent Wipers – Variable
Laminated Windscreen
Map/Reading Lamps – for 1st Row
Metallic Finish Centre Console
Metallic Finish Dash Board
Metallic Finish Door Inserts
Metallic Finish Interior Inserts
Multi-function Control Screen – Colour
Multi-function Steering Wheel
Park Brake – Foot Operated
Power Door Mirrors
Power Steering – Electric Assist
Power Windows – Front & Rear
Rear View Mirror – Manual Anti-Glare
Remote Boot/Hatch Release
Remote Fuel Lid Release
Seat – Driver with Electric Lumbar
Seat – Height Adjustable Driver
Seatback Pockets – 1st Row (Front) seats
Seatbelt – Adjustable Height 1st Row
Seatbelt – Load Limiters 1st Row (Front)
Seatbelt – Pretensioners 1st Row (Front)
Seatbelts – Lap/Sash for 5 seats
Seats – 2nd Row Split Fold
Spare Wheel – Full Size Alloy Wheel
Storage Compartment – Centre Console 1st Row
Sunglass Holder
Sunvisor – Illuminated Vanity Mirrors Dual
Tacho
Trim – Cloth
Trip Computer
Spare Wheel – Full Size Steel
Alarm
Chrome Interior highlights
Chrome Ringed Instruments
Chrome Window Surrounds – Exterior
Digital Instrument Display – Partial
Independent Rear Suspension
Keyless Start:- Key/FOB Proximity related
Seatback Pocket – Front Passenger Seat
Spare Wheel – Space Saver/Temporary
Starter Button

Touring

Price when new: $37,990

Price used: $6,900 - $11,300

Adds:

17″ Alloy Wheels
Body Colour – Rear Garnish
Fog Lamps – Front
Pedals – Sports
Spoiler – Rear

Prodigy

Price when new: $41,490

Price used: $7,500 - $16,600

Adds:

Blind – Power Rear
Central Locking – Key Proximity
Chrome Door Handles – Exterior
Control – Park Distance Front
Control – Park Distance Rear
Electric Seat – Drivers with Memory
Electric Seat – Passenger
Leather Look – Inserts in Doors
Leather Seats – Partial
Leather Steering Wheel
Power Door Mirrors – Auto Dipping (Reversing)
Power Door Mirrors – with Memory
Rain Sensor (Auto wipers)
Rear View Mirror – Electric Anti Glare
Scuff Plates – Embossed or personalised
Starter Button – Key/Fob Proximity
Woodgrain – Dash Board

Presara

Price when new: $49,990 - $50,440

Price used: $9,700 - $25,400

Adds:

10 Speaker Stereo
Blind Spot Sensor
GPS (Satellite Navigation)
Headlamp – High Beam Auto Dipping
Headlamp Washers
Headlamps – Active (Cornering/steering)
Headlamps – Electric Level Adjustment
Headlamps – High Intensity Discharge
Leather Gear Knob
Parking Assist – Graphical Display
Premium Sound System
Radio – Digital (DAB+)
Subwoofer
Sunroof – Electric
Woodgrain – Centre Console
Woodgrain – Inserts
Fog Lamps – Front LED
Headlamps – LED
Lane Departure Warning
Warning – Rear Cross Traffic (when reversing)

Sportivo

Price when new: $40,990 - $43,990

Price used: $12,200 - $23,600

Adds:

18″ Alloy Wheels
Voice Recognition

Sportivo SX6

Price when new: $40,990

Price used: $7,500 - $16,100

Adds:

Body Kit – F&R Spoilers, Skirts, Rear Apron
Gear Shift Paddles behind Steering Wheel
Paint – Metallic
Sports Instruments
Sports Seats – 1st Row (Front)
Steering Wheel – Sports
Suspension – Sports

Sportivo ZR6

Price when new: $47,990

Price used: $9,200 - $19,300

Adds:

Seats – Two Tone

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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