Toyota Aurion Release - first drive and prices.
Just found the first reviews and pricing for the new Toyota Aurion. http://.au/car-review/2112878.aspx. Nothing new in the styling. But the pricing is as sharp as was feared; $34,990 for the base model with a 200kW 3.5 litre V6; six speed auto as standard; full safety kit of dual airbags, curtain airbags & side airbags and stability control (I assume they mean ESP); and the usual air cond, electric seats, cruise, remote locking. Have to say it - that pricing is very competitive against the VE Omega with only a 4-speed auto and fewer airbags. In fact - it kills the VE Omega on pricing and fleets will be looking very, very closely at it. The report sounds positive on the car's handling and ride and refinement levels. But the big selling point - the six speed auto - isn't particularly liked by the reviewers. And they note - as many have pointed out in the forums already - that the engine needs to be revved hard to perform. That said, the engine sounds like its plenty smooth and refined. Just doesn't have the instant low down torque of say a Falcon. The review is pretty average. I'll wait for Wheels to put it to the test in the next issue. Have to say - it looks like the VE/Aurion match (settle guys - at the base levels, not compared to the SS...) will be damned close. And it also looks like the Aurion - like the VE - may not quite match the hype. And its auto transmissions in both cases that seem to be the weak point.