Review: Toyota XV50.I Camry Hybrid (2012-15)

Overview

Released in March 2012, the Toyota XV50 Series I (XV50.I) Camry Hybrid was a front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Altona, Victoria, the Camry Hybrid had a ‘Hybrid Synergy Drive’ powertrain which consisted of:

• a 2.5-litre 2AR-FXE four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine;
• two 650-volt AC motor/generators;
• a step-up converter and inverter to draw current from the 244.8 volt DC nickel metal hydride battery; and,
• an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT).

Of the two motor/generators, one acted primarily as a generator while the other operated primarily as the electric drive motor but could also function as a generator during regenerative braking. Furthermore, the compound planetary gear seat consisted of two sets of planetary gears. While the first planetary gear set acted as a power-split device (dividing petrol engine between the generator and the front axle), the second worked as a reduction gear for the electric drive motor. 

Drive modes and fuel consumption

To minimise fuel consumption, the XV50 Camry Hybrid had:

• An ‘ECO’ drive mode which adjusted throttle response and air-conditioning output for maximum fuel economy;
• An ‘Electric Vehicle’ (EV) mode in which it could operate solely on its electric motor for up to 2 kilometres at speeds below 45 km/h; and,
• A regenerative braking function whereby a generator converted the kinetic energy of the wheels when braking to an electric current to charge the battery pack.

Over the combined ADR 81/02 test cycle, the Camry Hybrid models achieved fuel consumption of 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres.

Comparison with XV50 Camry

Compared to the standard XV50 Camry , the Camry Hybrid had additional sound-absorbing materials in the engine compartment and an acoustic windscreen (i.e. with noise-absorbing film between the two layers of glass). For the XV50 Camry Hybrid, the DC/DC converter was relocated to the engine bay to increase boot space to 421 litres, though this was 94 litres less than the standard XV50 Camry’s 515 litre boot.

Visually, the hybrid Camry variants could be identified by their radiator grilles which had a chrome upper section, ‘hybrid blue’ Toyota badges and blue-accented headlight extensions. Inside, the hybrid variants had additional brushed silver inserts.

Dimensions

Compared to the XV40 Camry Hybrid , the XV50 Camry Hybrid was the same length (at 4815 mm), 5 mm wider (1825 mm), 10 mm lower (1470 mm) and had the same length wheelbase (2775 mm). Kerb weight for the XV50 Camry Hybrid was reduced by 35 kg to 1610 kg, while the XV50 Camry Hybrid also had an unbraked towing capacity of 300 kg.

Steering and suspension

The XV50 Camry Hybrid had electric power-assisted steering, coil-over suspension with MacPherson struts front and rear, with L-shaped lower arms at the front and dual transverse links at the rear. For Australia, the Camry Hybrid had locally-developed steering and suspension calibrations.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Camry Hybrid included dual front airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

The Camry Hybrid HL was further equipped with a blind spot monitoring system which used a sub-millimetre radar used to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes and alert the driver if changing lanes. The system activated once the vehicle exceeded 40 km/h and could detect a maximum relative speed difference of 28 km/h.

Brakes

The XV50 Camry Hybrid had 296 mm by 28 mm ventilated front brake discs and 286 mm by 10 mm solid rear discs.

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , the XV50 Camry received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 36.27 out of 37; based on evidence supplied by Toyota to ANCAP , this rating was also applied to the Camry Hybrid. In the offset crash test, there was a slight risk of serious leg injury for the front occupants. In the side impact and pole tests, however, maxiumum points were awarded.

Features: Camry Hybrid H

Like the XV50 Camry Altise , standard features for the Camry Hybrid included 16-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with CD player, MP3-compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth audio streaming, cruise control, automatic headlights, steering wheel audio controls, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power mirrors and windows, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, height adjustable front seats, two 12 volt power outlets, a trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser.

The Camry Hybrid, however, was further equipped with dual-zone climate control air conditioning, a power adjustable driver’s seat and a reversing camera with a 6.1-inch touch-screen.

Features: Camry Hybrid HL

The Camry Hybrid HL was distinguished by its ten speaker JBL sound system with 5.1-channel surround sound, digital radio receiver (DAB+), seven-inch touch screen with satellite navigation and RDS live traffic updates, power adjustable front seats (with memory settings), leather trim, front fog lights, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, rear parking sensors, reverse parking guide, automatically dipping mirrors when reversing, an electrochromatic rear view mirror and powered rear sunshade.

Brochures

• Brochure: Toyota XV50 Camry Hybrid (November 2012)

Related links

• Press Kit: Toyota XV50 Camry Hybrid (March 2012)

Review: Toyota XV50.II Camry Hybrid (2015-17)

Overview

Released in May 2015, the Toyota XV50 Series II (XV50.II) Camry Hybrid introduced a revised range that consisted of Altise, Atara S and Atara SL variants. Visually, the XV50.II Camry Hybrid could be identified by its larger, trapezoidal lower grille, low-profile headlamps and LED daytime running lamps, pronounced side character lines, lower LED tail lamps; the body of the XV50.II Camry Hybrid was also 10 mm wider. Inside, the XV50.II Camry had new upholsteries, revised instruments and a smaller three-spoke steering wheel.

The XV50.II Camry Hybrid introduced a ‘preload’ differential which had a conical spring between the differential case and the side gear. The conical spring applied ‘preload’ in the differential case during light loads and at low differential revolutions, providing torque to limit the speed difference between the driven wheels. According to Toyota, the differential provided smoother acceleration from rest, enhanced steering feel and greater straight-line stability on rough surfaces.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the XV50.II Camry Hybrid was unchanged. The XV50.II Camry Hybrid Atara SL, however, was further equipped with the following active safety technologies:

• Pre-collision safety system: used a millimetre-wave radar sensor in the grille to monitor the distance of potential obstacles in front of the vehicle. If the distance decreased such that a collision was considered a possibility, a buzzer and light would be activated to warn the driver. If the driver did not apply sufficient braking force and the possibility of a collision continued, the system would apply maximum braking force to reduce the vehicle’s speed. Where the system determined that a collision was unavoidable, the brakes would be applied automatically even if the driver had not used the brake pedal (i.e. autonomous emergency braking, or AEB) – such action could reduce impact speed by up to 30 km/h;
• Active cruise control: used the radar sensor in the grille to monitor the distance to vehicle ahead and maintain a safe distance by automatically applying the brakes;
• Lane departure alert: used a windscreen mounted camera to monitor lane markings and detect if the vehicle was about to deviate from its lane without prior activation of the indicators. If so, a warning tone would sound and a message would appear on the multi-information display screen; and,
• Blind spot monitoring: used rear radar sensors used to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes and alert the driver if changing lanes. The system activated once the vehicle exceeded 40 km/h and could detect a maximum relative speed difference of 28 km/h; and,
• Rear cross traffic alert: used the rear radar sensors to detect approaching traffic that may cross the vehicle’s path as it reversed out of a parking space.

Features: Camry Hybrid Atlise

Like the XV50.II Camry Altise , standard features for the XV50.II Camry Hybrid Altise included 16-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with a 6.1-inch touch screen, CD player, MP3-compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth audio streaming, air conditioning, cruise control, LED daytime running lights, automatic headlights, a reversing camera, steering wheel audio controls, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power mirrors and windows, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, height adjustable front seats, two 12 volt power outlets, a trip computer, alarm and immobiliser.

The Camry Hybrid Altise, however, was further equipped with dual-zone climate control air conditioning, a proximity key (for keyless entry), push-button start and, in the instrument cluster, two Optitron gauges that were separated by a full-colour 4.2-inch TFT display.

In May 2016, standard equipment for the Toyota XV50.II Camry Hybrid was extended to include:

• Rear parking sensors; and,
• ISOFIX attachment points for the rear seats.

Features: Camry Hybrid Atara S

Relative to the Altise, the Camry Hybrid Atara S was further equipped with ten-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, a seven-inch touch screen, ‘Toyota Link’ connected mobility system with voice recognition, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, power adjustable driver’s seat, rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, proximity key and push-button start. From June 2015, the Toyota Link system included Pandora internet radio.

From October 2016, the Camry Hybrid Atara S was fitted with a satellite navigation system as standard.

Features: Camry Hybrid Atara SL

The range-topping Camry Hybrid Atara SL was distinguished by its fifteen-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, JBL sound system with ten speakers, a GreenEdge amplifier and Matrix 5.1 channel surround system, satellite navigation system with real-time traffic updates, leather seats, power adjustable front seats, front parking sensors, automatic high beam headlights, rain-sensing wipers and front seat memory settings. Furthermore, the instrument cluster for the Atara SL featured two Optitron meters and a full-colour 4.2-inch TFT display which could display audio, navigation, warning and communication information.

From May 2016, the Camry Hybrid Atara SL was fitted with a wireless phone charger.

2017 Toyota Camry Hybrid Commemorative Edition

The Toyota Camry Hybrid Commemorative Edition was released in September 2017. Based on the Camry Hybrid Atara SL, the Camry Hybrid Commemorative Edition could be identified by its metallic silver paint finish, red garnish on the lower grille and black roof. Inside, the Camry Hybrid Commemorative Edition featured sports mesh trim, blue footwell illumination, ‘Camry’ branded scuff plates and ‘Commemorative Edition’ floor mats.

Production of the Toyota Camry Hybrid Commemorative Edition was limited to fifty-four (54) vehicles, representing one vehicle for each year since 1963 that Toyota vehicles were manufactured in Australia.

Brochure

• Brochure: Toyota XV50.II Camry and Camry Hybrid (May 2015)

Related links

• Press Kit: Toyota XV50 Camry (May 2015)
• Toyota Press: Toyota Camry Hybrid Commemorative Edition (September 2017)
• Toyota Australia: Toyota Camry Hybrid
• Wikipedia.org: Toyota XV50 Camry

Review: Toyota XV50.I Aurion (2012-15)

Overview

Released in April 2012, the Toyota XV50 Aurion was a large, front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Altona, Victoria, the Toyota XV50 Aurion was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. As per the table below, the XV50 Aurion range consisted of five variants: AT-X, Prodigy, Sportivo SX-6, Sportivo ZR-6 and Presara.

2GR-FE V6 engine

The 3.5-litre 2GR-FE V6 engine had an aluminium block and cylinder head, double overhead camshafts per cylinder bank (chain-driven), roller rockers, four valves per cylinder, variable inlet and exhaust valve timing (Toyota’s ‘dual VVT-i’), an Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) which increased the length of the induction tract for low-rev torque and shortened the tract for top-end power and a compression ratio of 10.8:1.

Over the combined ADR 81/02 test cycle, the XV50 Aurion achieved fuel economy of 9.3 litres per 100 km.

Dimensions and body

Compared to the Toyota XV40 Aurion , the XV50 Aurion was 10 mm longer (at 4835 mm) and 5 mm wider (1825 mm), though its wheelbase and height were unchanged (2775 mm and 1470 mm, respectively); kerb mass was also reduced by at least 55 kg for each variant. Toyota also claimed that the XV50 Aurion was more refined than its predecessor due to its increased body rigidity, acoustic glass windscreen, three-layer construction of the firewall insulation, reduced panel gaps (down from 5 mm to 3.5 mm) and new dampers with reduced internal friction and increased high-speed rebound damping.

Steering and suspension

The XV50 Aurion had electric power-assisted steering, coil-over suspension with MacPherson struts front and rear, with L-shaped lower arms at the front and dual transverse links at the rear.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Toyota XV50 Aurion included dual front airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

The Aurion Presara and Sportivo ZR6 variants were further equipped with a blind spot monitoring system which activated when the vehicle exceeded 40 km/h and could detect a maximum relative speed difference of 28 km/h. These variants were also fitted with directional, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights with automatically controlled high- and low-beam.

Brakes

The Toyota XV50 Aurion had 296 mm by 28 mm ventilated front brake discs and 286 mm by 10 mm solid rear discs.

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , the Toyota XV50 Aurion received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 36.59 out of 37. In the offset crash test, there was only a slight risk of serious lower leg injury for the front occupants. In the side impact and pole tests, however, maximum points were awarded.

Features: Aurion AT-X, Prodigy and Presara

Standard features for the Toyota Aurion AT-X included 16-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels with 215/60 R16 Michelin tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3-compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5mm/USB/iPod), 6.1-inch touch-screen and Bluetooth audio streaming, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, a power adjustable driver’s seat, cruise control with speed alert, automatic headlights, a reversing camera, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, a tilt and reach adjustable steering wheel, courtesy lamps, trip computer, 12 volt power outlet, an alarm and immobiliser.

The Aurion Prodigy was further equipped with 17-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels with 215/55 R17 Bridgestone tyres, a power adjustable front passenger seat, front fog lights, leather seat trim, front and rear parking sensors, a proximity key, leather-wrapped steering wheel, driver’s seat and mirror memory settings, automatically dipping door mirrors when reversing, a powered rear sunshade and an electrochromatic rear view mirror.

The range-topping Aurion Presara was distinguished by its ten speaker JBL sound system with a seven-inch display, digital radio (DAB+), satellite navigation with live traffic updates, park assist display, power-operated moonroof and woodgrain interior trim (for the instrument panel, door trims and gear shifter area).

Features: Aurion Sportivo SX6 and Sportivo ZR6

Compared to AT-X, the Aurion Sportivo SX6 was further equipped with 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with sports suspension and 215/55 R17 Bridgestone tyres, contoured front sports seats, a power adjustable front passenger seat, front fog lights, a proximity key and steering wheel gearshift paddles.

Visually, the Sportivo variants could be identified by their front and rear spoilers and rear diffuser; inside, there was a three-spoke steering wheel. The Sportivo variants also had ‘Drive’ and ‘Sport’ modes for the automatic transmission – in ‘Sport’ mode, the transmission provided faster upshifts and rev-matched throttle-blipping for downshifts.

The Aurion Sportivo ZR6 was further equipped with a ten speaker JBL sound system with a seven-inch display, digital radio (DAB+), satellite navigation with live traffic updates, a power adjustable front passenger seat, two-tone leather seats, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a park assist display, automatically dipping door mirrors when reversing, driver’s seat and mirror memory settings and an electrochromatic rear view mirror.

2012 Aurion Touring Edition

In September 2012, 1500 limited-run Touring Editions were released. Compared to the AT-X variants, the Touring Editions could be identified by their 17-inch sports alloy wheels, front fog lights, sports grilles, rear spoilers and ‘SE’ badges. Inside, the Aurion Touring featured a premium steering wheel (with audio controls) and sports pedals.

Brochures

• Brochure: Toyota XV50 Aurion Touring (November 2012)
• Brochure: Toyota XV50 Aurion (May 2014)

Related links

• Press Kit: Toyota XV50 Aurion (April 2012)

Review: Toyota XV50.II Aurion (2015-17)

Overview

Released in May 2015, the Toyota XV50 Series II (XV50.II) Aurion introduced a revised range as the Prodigy variant was discontinued and the Sportivo SX-6 and ZR-6 were replaced by a single Sportivo variant.

The XV50.II Aurion could be identified by its new headlights, grille and alloy wheel designs; the Aurion Sportivo was fitted with a revised bodykit which included a lower chin spoiler and blacked-out fog lamp bezels. Beyond this,

• The Aurion AT-X had a black mesh-type grille, body-coloured head board and body coloured rear garnish (previously chrome); and,
• The Aurion Presara had a premium grille that was flanked by LED headlamps, LED fog lamps and a body-coloured lip spoiler.

As standard, the XV50.II Aurion had a dual-dial Optitron instrument clusters with 4.2-inch colour thin-film transistor (TFT) multi-information display (MID). Chrome-plated rings surrounded the dials which featured blue and white illumination.

Like the XV50.II Camry, the XV50.II Aurion was fitted with a ‘preload’ differential which had a conical spring between the differential case and the side gear. The conical spring applied ‘preload’ in the differential case during light loads and at low differential revolutions, providing torque to limit the speed difference between the driven wheels. According to Toyota, the differential provided smoother acceleration from rest, enhanced steering feel and greater straight-line stability on rough surfaces.

Safety equipment

Compared to its XV50.I predecessor, standard safety equipment was unchanged. For the XV50.II Aurion Presara, however, standard safety equipment was extended to include:

• Lane departure alert: used a windscreen mounted camera to monitor lane markings and detect if the vehicle was about to deviate from its lane without prior activation of the indicators. If so, a warning tone would sound and a message would appear on the multi-information display screen; and,
• Rear cross traffic alert: used the rear radar sensors to detect approaching traffic that may cross the vehicle’s path as it reversed out of a parking space.

From June 2016, the Toyota Aurion Sportivo was also fitted with lane departure alert and rear cross traffic alert.

Features: Aurion AT-X, Sportivo and Presara

Standard features for the XV50.II Aurion were extended to include a 4.2-inch colour multi-information display, Toyota connected mobility system, front and rear parking sensors, a proximity key for keyless entry and push-button start, Optitron instrumentation,

Relative to the XV50.I Sportivo SX6, the XV50.II Aurion Sportivo was fitted 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with a gloss black finish, sports suspension, voice recognition and a rear sunshade. For the XV50.II Aurion Sportivo, the electric power-steering map and front shock absorbers were tuned by Toyota Australia’s local engineers.

Standard features for the Aurion Presara were extended to include 17-inch 15-spoke alloy wheels, LED headlights with auto high-beam and LED fog lights and front seat memory settings. The XV50.II Aurion Presara was available with black or ivory leather-accented trim.

June 2016 update

In June 2016, standard features for the Toyota Aurion AT-X were extended to include 17-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels with 215/55 R17 tyres, and a premium steering wheel (four-spoke) and gear shift lever. Furthermore, all Toyota Aurion vehicles were fitted with rear-seat ISOFIX attachment points for child safety seats.

Standard features for the Toyota Aurion Sportivo were also extended to include a JBL sound system with ten speakers, digital radio tuner (DAB+), satellite navigation with seven-inch touch screen and real-time traffic updates, Toyota Link connected mobility, leather-accented seats, a power adjustable driver’s seat with two memory positions, LED headlights, LED fog lights, power-operated rear window sunshade. Visually, the post-June 2016 Toyota Aurion Sportivo could be identified by its black 18-inch alloy wheels, while a new exterior paint colour, Cherry, was also introduced.

Brochure

• Brochure: Toyota XV50.II Aurion (May 2015)

Related links

• Press Kit: Toyota XV50.II Aurion (May 2015)
• Toyota Australia: Toyota Aurion
• Wikipedia.org: Toyota XV50 Aurion

Recalls: Toyota XV50 Camry Hybrid

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Toyota XV50 Camry Hybrid

• In August 2012, a recall was issued for Toyota XV50 Camry models that were manufactured between October 2011 and July 2012 due to an incorrectly manufactured fuel hose (PRA 2012/13258). In these vehicles, the fuel hose that connects the main fuel supply line to the engine may have become wrinkled during manufacture – this could result in a small hole in the fuel hose which may allow fuel to leak. As part of the recall, the fuel hose was to be inspected and repaired if wrinkled. The recalled vehicles were in the following VIN ranges:
  • Camry: 6T1 BF3FK # 0X001018 to 0X014805; and,
  • Camry Hybrid: 6T1 BD3FK # 0X123010 to 0X125913.

Problems and faults: Toyota XV50 Camry Hybrid

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Toyota XV50 Camry Hybrid

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Toyota XV50 Camry Hybrid.

Recalls: Toyota XV50 Aurion

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Toyota XV50 Aurion

• In August 2012, a recall was issued for XV50 Camry models that were manufactured between October 2011 and July 2012 due to an incorrectly manufactured fuel hose. In these vehicles, the fuel hose that connects the main fuel supply line to the engine may have become wrinkled during manufacture – this could result in a small hole in the fuel hose which may allow fuel to leak. As part of the recall, the fuel hose was to be inspected and repaired if wrinkled. The recalled vehicles were in the VIN range 6T1 BK3FK # 0X228018 to 0X232106 (PRA 2012/13258).

Problems and faults: Toyota XV50 Aurion

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

2GR-FE oil changes

The Toyota 2GR-FE engine is sensitive to the condition of the oil. Over time, particles of unburnt fuel and combustion by-products cause a build-up of carbon (soot) in the engine oil, forming a jelly-type substance. As per the Aurion warranty and service book, this oil thickening ‘can cause serious engine damage through oil starvation,’ such that it is essential that the engine oil is changed according to the maintenance schedule.

U660E: transmission fluid replacement

For the U660E automatic transmission, the Toyota Aurion warranty and service book indicates that the automatic transmission fluid – Toyota Genuine ATF WS (ATF JWS3324 or NWS9638) – is to be inspected every 45,000 kms or 36 months, with the fluid replaced ‘only as necessary’.

Furthermore, the Toyota Aurion owners’ manual states that ‘[g]enerally, it is necessary to change automatic transmission fluid only if your vehicle is driven under one of the Additional Service Requirements’ (i.e. ‘severe driving conditions’ such as towing), in which case replacement of the automatic transmission fluid is recommended every 90,000 kms or 72 months. To prevent transmission damage and extend the life of the transmission, however, AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that the transmission fluid be replaced every 90,000 kms or 72 months.

Please note that using automatic transmission fluid other than Toyota Genuine ATF WS may cause deterioration in shift quality, locking up of your transmission accompanied by vibration, and ultimately damage the automatic transmission. For information on checking the transmission fluid level of the U660E transmission, please see the video below.

Released in March 2012, the Toyota XV50 Camry Hybrid was a front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Altona, Victoria, the Camry Hybrid had a ‘Hybrid Synergy Drive’ powertrain which consisted of a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine, two 650 volt AC motor/generators, a step-up converter and inverter to draw current from the nickel metal hydride battery, and an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT). Of the two motor/generators, one acted primarily as a generator while the other operated primarily as the electric drive motor but could also function as a generator during regenerative braking… Read full Toyota XV50 Camry Hybrid review

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Images: Toyota XV50.II Camry Hybrid (2015-17)

Released in May 2015, the Toyota XV50 Series II (XV50.II) Camry Hybrid introduced a revised range that consisted of Altise, Atara S and Atara SL variants. Visually, the XV50.II Camry Hybrid could be identified by its larger, trapezoidal lower grille, low-profile headlamps and LED daytime running lamps, pronounced side character lines, lower LED tail lamps; the body of the XV50.II Camry Hybrid was also 10 mm wider. Inside, the XV50.II Camry had new upholsteries, revised instruments and a smaller three-spoke steering wheel.

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Released in April 2012, the Toyota XV50 Aurion was a large, front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Altona, Victoria, the XV50 Aurion was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, the XV50 Aurion range consisted of five variants: AT-X, Prodigy, Sportivo SX-6, Sportivo ZR-6 and Presara… Read full Toyota XV50 Aurion review

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Images: Toyota XV50.II Aurion (2015-17)

Released in May 2015, the Toyota XV50 Series II (XV50.II) Aurion introduced a revised range as the Prodigy variant was discontinued and the Sportivo SX-6 and ZR-6 were replaced by a single Sportivo variant. The XV50.II Aurion could be identified by its new headlights, grille and alloy wheel designs; the Aurion Sportivo was fitted with a revised bodykit which included a lower chin spoiler and blacked-out fog lamp bezels.

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ANCAP: 2012 Toyota XV50 Camry crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing, the XV50 Camry received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 36.27 out of 37; based on evidence supplied by Toyota to ANCAP, this rating was also applied to the Camry Hybrid.

Toyota: Camry Hybrid – Hybrid System

ANCAP: Toyota XV50 Aurion crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing, the Aurion received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 36.59 out of 37. For more information, please see the ANCAP website.

Drive: Holden VF Calais V, Ford FG.II Falcon G6E & Toyota XV50 Aurion Presara

Toyota: Aurion V6 Presara Virtual Tour

Toyota: Dual VVT-i V6 Engine