The Toyota Aurion II (XV50), specifically the facelifted model produced from 2014 to August 2017, was Toyota’s mid-size sedan offering, primarily aimed at the Australian and Middle Eastern automotive markets. Not sold in the United States, the Aurion was engineered to provide a comfortable and well-equipped alternative to domestic competitors like the Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore in Australia. The 3.5-liter V6 variant, generating 272 horsepower and coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission, represented the top-of-the-line trim, balancing performance with refinement. This model targeted buyers desiring a roomy, dependable, and reasonably powerful family sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Aurion |
| Generation | Aurion II (XV50, facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (272 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | August, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 215 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 180.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 223.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 272 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 336 Nm @ 4700 rpm (247.82 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 3456 cm3 (210.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.4 l (9.93 US qt | 8.27 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1505-1555 kg (3317.96 – 3428.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545-595 kg (1201.52 – 1311.75 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4835 mm (190.35 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2775 mm (109.25 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11-11.4 m (36.09 – 37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 3.5 V6 Aurion’s engine was the 2GR-FE, a 3.5-liter, naturally aspirated V6. The engine’s 60-degree V-angle contributed to smoother power delivery and reduced vibrations. It featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design incorporating Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) system, optimizing valve timing for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency throughout the engine’s operating range. Multi-port fuel injection was employed, delivering fuel directly to each intake port. The engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, a conventional torque converter type selected for its smoothness and reliability. While not the most advanced transmission available at the time, it complemented the engine’s characteristics and the Aurion’s intended role as a comfortable, everyday vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
The 272-horsepower output of the 3.5 V6 provided the Aurion with responsive acceleration. While not designed as a sports sedan, it offered sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission prioritized smooth shifts over aggressive gear changes. Compared to the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder Aurion, the V6 model delivered a noticeably more engaging driving experience. The 6-speed automatic, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick-shifting and lacked the manual shift mode found in some competing vehicles. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, though it didn’t match the dynamic capabilities of rear-wheel-drive alternatives.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5 V6 Aurion typically came generously equipped, representing the premium trim level. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a comprehensive suite of safety features such as ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras frequently included a sunroof, a premium audio system, and parking sensors. The interior design was functional and comfortable, prioritizing practicality over overt luxury. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, with logically arranged controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Aurion’s chassis utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration delivered a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing road imperfections. Stabilizer bars were incorporated on both axles to minimize body roll during cornering. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, providing reliable stopping power in most driving conditions. Electric power steering offered light and effortless steering, enhancing convenience for urban driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Aurion 3.5 V6 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics in Australia. It was commended for its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Some reviewers, however, noted that the automatic transmission could feel somewhat hesitant, and the interior design lacked the visual appeal of certain competitors. Fuel economy, at 9.3 l/100km, was reasonable for a V6 engine of this displacement, but not class-leading. Compared to the four-cylinder Aurion, the V6 offered a substantial performance improvement, albeit at a higher price. It positioned itself as a more refined and powerful option, appealing to buyers who valued performance and comfort.
Legacy
The Toyota Aurion, and particularly the 3.5 V6 variant, has earned a reputation for reliability and durability. The 2GR-FE engine is well-regarded for its longevity and relatively low maintenance requirements. In the used car market, Aurions equipped with this powertrain maintain their value reasonably well, attracting buyers seeking a dependable and spacious family sedan. Although production ended in 2017, the Aurion remains a popular choice for those seeking a well-built and reliable vehicle, especially in Australia, where it enjoyed a strong customer base.
