More kit for upgraded Aurion

The final iteration of Toyota's locally-manufactured Aurion has been officially unveiled to the media today, boasting subtle new looks outside and a redesigned interior.

Based on the Camry four-cylinder, but without the same level of change to its sheet metal, the V6-powered Aurion gains a significant equipment upgrade. All models are now fitted with keyless entry/start, a 4.2-inch colour infotainment screen, Toyota Link connected services and front/rear parking sensors with acoustic guidance. Dual-zone climate control is standard across the board, and safety features the likes of seven airbags, reversing camera and stability and traction control are also on the equipment list for all variants.

Yet prices have held fast for the entry-level AT-X at $36,490 and Sportivo, at $40,990. Only the flagship Presara has risen in price to $50,440 to accommodate the previous $450 option of premium paint, which remains optional for the other two levels of trim.

The Aurion Presara also adopts lane departure alert and rear cross-traffic alert, along with LED headlights and fog lights.

As the sporty variant in the range, the Aurion Sportivo rides on 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels with firmer suspension, a recalibrated steering system and an exclusive body kit. Work done developing the underpinnings of the Aurion Sportivo was carried out by Australian engineers working here and in Japan.

All Aurion variants now drive through a new, pre-loaded front differential. According to Toyota, this delivers improved smoothness through the drivetrain and enhanced stability at speed. Other than that, and revision to the Sportivo's running gear, the Aurion carries over unchanged, mechanically. Peak output from the 3.5-litre V6 is 200kW/336Nm200kW/336Nm and the drive to the front wheels goes via a six-speed automatic transmission.

The base-grade Aurion AT-X rides on 16-inch alloy wheels and is complemented by an electrically-adjustable driver's seat and a dual-tipped exhaust. To that, the Aurion Sportivo adds a smaller-diameter three-spoke steering wheel (leather bound), shift paddles, rear sunshade, electric adjustment for both front seats, and different seat fabric.

Over and above the Aurion Sportivo specification, the Aurion Presara rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and features a blind-spot monitor and auto high-beam headlights. The 10-speaker audio system incorporates satellite navigation and the electric adjustment for the front seats comes with position memory. Seats are leather-accented, the rear spoiler fitted is body-coloured and, like the Sportivo, the Presara comes with a rear sunshade.

"Aurion Sportivo will attract buyers looking for a family sedan that dials up the fun-to-drive factor with a more engaging drive experience," said Tony Cramb, Toyota Australia executive director for sales and marketing.

"The latest Sportivo along with enhanced features and steady prices across the range will appeal to value-conscious buyers in this segment of the market," he said.