Overview

Released in August 2007, the TRD Aurion was a large, front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Altona, Victoria, the front-wheel drive XV40 Aurion was powered by a supercharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with a sequential shift function. The TRD Aurion range consisted of 3500S and 3500SL variants (‘sports’ and ‘sports luxury’, respectively).

2GR-FE engine

The 3.5-litre 2GR-FE V6 engine had a die-cast aluminium block and cylinder heads, double overhead camshafts (per cylinder bank), four valves per cylinder, and variable valve timing on the intake and exhaust cams (‘dual VVT-i’). Unlike the Toyota XV40 Aurion , however, the TRD Aurion engine was fitted with an Eaton TVS (Twin Vortices System) four-lobe supercharger which was driven by a V-belt off the engine’s crank shaft. Furthermore, the engine had a compression ratio of 10.8:1 and required 98 RON premium unleaded petrol.

Although peak torque was 400 Nm at 4000 rpm, more than 300 Nm was available from 1250 rpm. As such, the TRD Aurion could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds.

Dimensions and body

Compared to the Toyota XV40 Aurion , the TRD XV40 Aurion was 65 mm longer (at 4890 mm) and 10 mm lower (1460 mm), though width (1820 mm) and wheelbase length (2775 mm) were unchanged. Furthermore, the TRD Aurion was fitted with sports body kit, rear underbody bracing, underbody aerodynamic enhancements and upgraded brakes, while SL variants also had a reinforced rear bumper to for greater rigidity. Visually, the TRD Aurion could be identified by its smoke headlights and rear combination lights and sports body kit.

Suspension

The TRD Aurion had coil-over suspension with MacPherson struts front and rear, with L-shaped lower arms at the front and dual transverse links at the rear. Compared to the Toyota XV40 Aurion, the unique suspension package for the TRD Aurion included:

• Increased spring rates front and rear (by 11 and 10.5 per cent, respectively);
• A 12 mm lower ride height;
• TRD-specific dampers;
• Increased negative camber, front toe-in and neutral rear toe; and,
• 25 mm front and 16 mm rear stabiliser bars (as per the Aurion Sportivo).

Safety equipment

Safety equipment for the TRD Aurion included with dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), ABS, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts load limiters and pretensioners.

Brakes

The TRD Aurion had 325 mm by 32 mm ventilated front discs with twin-piston aluminium calipers and 310 mm by 18 mm ventilated rear discs with single-piston aluminium calipers.

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , the Toyota XV40 Aurion received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 30.03 out of 37. In the offset crash test, protection from serious leg injury was marginal for the driver. In the side impact test, there was a slight risk of serious chest injury for the driver. A pole test, which could provided an additional two points, was not conducted.

Features: Aurion 3500S and 3500SL

Standard features for the TRD Aurion 3500S included 19-inch alloy wheels with 245/35 ZR 19 Dunlop Sport Maxx performance tyres, a six speaker sound system with a six-disc CD player and MP3/WMA compatibility, air conditioning, combination leather/alcantara seats, a power adjustable driver’s seat, cruise control with speed alert, front fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a height adjustable driver’s seat, 12 volt power outlet, courtesy lamps, tinted windows, a trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser. The 3500S was available with Ink, Wildfire, Silver Ash and Diamond White paint finishes and a Dark Red interior.

The TRD Aurion 3500SL was further equipped with dual zone climate control air conditioning, full leather seat trim, power adjustable front seats, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, proximity key with keyless starting and floor mats. Visually, the 3500SL could be identified by its bright silver metallic alloy wheels, mid-grey accented grille surround and mid-grey bumper accents. The 3500SL was available with Ink and Silver Ash paint finishes and a Plum interior.

Related links

• Press Kit: TRD XV40 Aurion (August 2007)
• Wikipedia.org: Toyota XV40 Aurion

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

Review: Toyota XV40.I Aurion (2006-09)

Overview

Released in October 2006, the Toyota XV40 Series I (XV40.I) Aurion was a large, front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Altona, Victoria, the Toyota XV40 Aurion was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The XV40.I Aurion range initially consisted of five variants: AT-X, Prodigy, Sportivo SX6, Sportivo ZR6 and Presara, though limited-run Touring variants were released in 2007, 2008 and 2009.

2GR-FE 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 81/01 test cycle, fuel consumption for the XV40 Aurion was 9.9 litres per 100 km (using 95 RON premium unleaded petrol).

Body and dimensions

The Aurion was based on the XV40 Camry platform, but was differentiated from the Camry by its V6 engine, six-speed automatic transmission and styling. As such, the Aurion was 10 mm longer than the Camry (at 4825 mm) and 10 mm lower (1470 mm), though width (1820 mm) and wheelbase length (2775 mm) were unchanged.

Suspension

The Toyota Aurion had 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 XV40.I Aurion included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The Toyota XV40 Aurion had 296 mm by 28 mm ventilated front disc brakes and 286 mm by 10 mm solid rear discs.

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , a 2007 Toyota XV40.I Aurion AT-X received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 30.03 out of 37. In the offset crash test, protection from serious leg injury was marginal for the driver. In the side impact test, there was a slight risk of serious chest injury for the driver. A pole test, which could provided an additional two points, was not conducted.

A 2009 Toyota XV40.II Aurion subsequently received a five star adult occupant protection rating – with a score of 33.03 – following the introduction of a front passenger seatbelt reminder (one point) and the completion of the pole test (two points).

Features: Aurion AT-X, Prodigy, Presara

Standard features for the Toyota Aurion AT-X included 16-inch steel wheels, a six speaker sound system with an MP3-compatible CD player, air conditioning, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat (including lumbar adjustment), cruise control with speed alert, automatic headlights, steering wheel audio controls, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a tilt and reach adjustable steering wheel, courtesy lamps, rear ski port, an alarm and immobiliser.

The Aurion Prodigy was further equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, six-stack CD player, dual zone climate control air conditioning, leather seats and door trim, a six-way power adjustable front passenger seat, front and rear parking sensors, front fog lamps, a multi-function trip computer, woodgrain interior trim and a leather-wrapped four-spoke steering wheel and gearshift lever.

The range-topping Aurion Presara was distinguished by its 17-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation system, reversing camera, driver’s seat and mirror memory settings, Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel climate and Bluetooth controls, high intensity discharge (HID) headlights, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry and start, a kerbside-tilting mirror when reversing, moonroof and powered rear blind.

Features: Aurion Sportivo SX6 and Sportivo ZR6

Compared to the AT-X, the Aurion Sportivo SX6 added 17-inch alloy wheels with sports suspension settings and a six-stack CD player. The Sportivo variants were also fitted with additional rear bracing, undercarriage aerodynamic enhancements and a sports body kit, including front and rear spoilers, side skirts and rear apron.

The Aurion Sportivo ZR6 was further equipped with dual zone climate control air conditioning, black leather seats, a six-way power adjustable front passenger seat, front and rear parking sensors and keyless entry and start.

Aurion Touring

In October 2007, April 2008, October 2008 and April 2009, limited-run Touring variants were released. Relative to the AT-X, the Aurion Touring added 16-inch alloy wheels, a six-stack CD player, dual zone climate control air conditioning, front and rear parking sensors, front fog lamps, a four-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift, trip computer and rear spoiler. The 2009 Touring variants were also distinguished by their 17-inch alloy wheels and Sportivo grille, head and tail-lights and sports pedals.

Related links

• Press Kit: Toyota XV40.I Aurion (October 2006)
• Press Release: Toyota XV40.I Aurion Touring (September 2008)
• Press Release: Toyota XV40.I Aurion Touring (May 2009)

Review: Toyota XV40.II Aurion (2009-11)

Overview

Released in September 2009, the Toyota XV40 Series II (XV40.II) Aurion introduced additional features and minor cosmetic changes. Visually, the XV40.II Aurion could be identified by its new front mask (including new bumpers, grilles, upgraded headlamps and fog lamp surrounds), faster-acting LED brake and tail lamps and new wheel designs. Inside, there were new colour combinations and improved instruments, lighting and storage spaces.

Safety equipment

Following the introduction of a front passenger seatbelt reminder, the XV40.II Aurion was awarded a five star adult occupant protection rating; its crashworthiness, however, was the same as its XV40.I predecessor.

Features: AT-X, Prodigy, Presara

Standard features for the Toyota XV40.II Aurion were extended to include a Bluetooth hands-free telephone kit and 3.5 mm auxiliary audio input. Beyond this, the Prodigy gained a six-stack CD player, Bluetooth audio streaming, a 4.3-inch colour LCD display with reversing camera, rain-sensing wipers, powered rear blind and an electrochromatic rear view mirror. The Presara was fitted with an eight speaker.

Features: Sportivo SX6 and Sportivo ZR6

In addition to the new standard features, the Aurion Sportivo variants featured 17-inch split five-spoke alloy wheels, a six-stack CD player, Bluetooth audio streaming and a 4.3-inch colour LCD display with a reversing camera. The Sportivo SX6 was also fitted with dual zone climate control air conditioning, while the Sportivo ZR6 was further equipped with heated door mirrors and a kerbside-tilting mirror when reversing.

2010 Aurion Touring

In May 2010, the limited-run Aurion Touring was released. Based on the AT-X, the Touring was distinguished by its 17-inch alloy wheels, six-disc CD player, dual zone climate control air conditioning, reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, a four-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift, trip computer, sports pedals, and Sportivo grille, lights and rear spoiler.

2011 Aurion White

In May 2011, a limited-run White variant was released. Based on the Prodigy, the White was distinguished by its 17-inch grey-finished five-spoke alloy wheels, leather seat trim, ‘carbon fibre-look’ highlights, a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel, power sunroof, multi-function trip computer, floor mats, Sportivo bodykit, head and tail-lights and ‘Crystal Pearl’ mica white paint finish.

Brochures

• Brochure: Toyota XV40.II Aurion (September 2009)
• Brochure: Toyota XV40.II Aurion (May 2010)
• Flyer: Toyota XV40.II Aurion (April 2011)
• Brochure: Toyota XV40.II Aurion White (April 2011)

Related links

• Press Release: Toyota XV40.II Aurion (September 2009)
• Press Release: Toyota XV40.II Aurion Touring (May 2010)
• Press Release: Toyota XV40.II Aurion White (May 2011)
• Wikipedia.org: Toyota XV40 Aurion

Recalls: TRD XV40 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: TRD XV40 Aurion

No recall information is available for the TRD Aurion (XV40). To search for recalls of Toyota models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Toyota.

Problems and faults: TRD XV40 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.

Problems and faults: TRD XV40 Aurion

• The 3.5-litre 2GR-FE V6 petrol engine (generally pre-2009 build) had a design fault which could lead to oil leaking from a short rubber hose that supplied oil to the VVT-i on the rear cylinder bank; this generally occurred 70,000 and 105,000 km.
• Air from the centre rear air conditioning may be warmer than the front – this problem was fixed by revised servo motors and air conditioning amplifiers.
• The check engine light may illuminate due to a problem with the variable valve timing camshaft oil control valve.
• Dashboard rattles were not uncommon, even on new cars. To fix, the dashboard had to be removed and insulating clips installed.

Recalls: Toyota XV40 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 XV40 Aurion

2006-10 Toyota XV40 Aurion: driver’s window switch could become defective #1

In October 2012, a recall was issued for Toyota XV40 Aurion vehicles produced prior to 31 May 2010. In these vehicles, a sliding electrical contact module in the driver’s side power window master switch may have a ‘sticky’ feel during operation due to the non-uniform application of lubricant – this could cause wear to the internal sliding contact points. As a result, the switch may become inoperative. If, however, a commercially available lubricant was applied to rectify the operation, the switch assembly could potentially overheat and melt (PRA 2012/13327).

2009-10 Toyota XV40 Aurion: driver’s window switch could become defective #2

In November 2015, a recall was issued for Toyota XV40 Aurion vehicles that were manufactured from April 2009 to December 2010. In these vehicles, the sliding electrical contacts in the driver’s side power window master switch may not have been lubricated with sufficient grease. As a result, wear residue from the electrical contact points could accumulate between the terminals during normal operation. This wear residue could cause a short circuit between the contact points, posing a fire hazard. The recalled Toyota XV40 Aurion vehicles had VINs in the range 6T1 53KK40 # 0X321461 to 6T1 53KK40 # 0X345675 (PRA 2015/14999).

Problems and faults: Toyota XV40 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.

2006-09 Toyota XV40 Aurion: VVT-i oil hose leak

In August 2014, Toyota USA issued its extended ‘Limited Service Campaign’ (LSC) 90K for vehicles that had 3.5-litre 2GR-FE V6 engines. Since LSC 90K was issued for the US market, the Toyota Aurion was not identified by name, but AustralianCar.Reviews understands that the Aurion was affected by VVT-i oil hose leaks since its 2GR-FE engine had the same oil supply hose as other affected vehicles. As such, the affected Toyota Aurion vehicles were manufactured prior to June 2009.

In affected vehicles, the rubber portion of the oil supply hose for the VVT-i actuator could develop a pinhole and exposure to small amounts of corrosive gases from the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system may cause this pinhole to expand and oil to leak. If this occurred, the engine noise may be ‘abnormal’ and the oil pressure light may illuminate.

As part of LSC 90K, the VVT-i oil hose was to be replaced with a ‘newly designed’ hose at no charge to owners. Vehicle owners could participate in the service campaign until 31 December 2021.

2GR-FE engine: 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.

2007-08 Toyota XV40 Aurion: 2GR-FE idler pulley noise

In February 2009, Toyota USA issued Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0056-09 for 2007-08 Toyota Camry V6 vehicles that had 3.5-litre 2GR-FE V6 engines. According to the bulletin, these vehicles may exhibit a squeaking noise from the engine compartment while the engine was running due to the no.2 idler pulley. However, AustralianCar.Reviews understands that this bulletin also applies to Toyota XV40 Aurion vehicles since they had the same idler pulley (shared with the XU40 Kluger and XA30 RAV4).

To replace the idler pulley,

• The accessory drive belt was to be loosened;
• The no.2 idler pulley(s) were to be removed;
• The original no.2 idler pulley cover plate was be fitted to the front of each new no.2 idler pulley;
• A new idler pulley cover (part no. 16649-31020) was to be fitted to the rear of each new pulley (part no. 16604-0P011) and the assemblies were to be bolted onto the engine;
• The accessory drive belt was to be re-installed.

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 Special Operating Conditions’ (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.

Toyota Aurion U660E transmission: 3rd to 4th gear shift flare

For 2006-07 Toyota Aurions, owners may experience a sharp increase in engine RPM between the 3rd to 4th gear shift point during the first ten minutes of operation after a cold start. A revised transmission valve body was developed to address this concern.

Toyota XV40 Aurion: drifts or pulls to left when driving straight

When driving in a straight line, some Toyota Aurion vehicles would drift or pull to the left of the road. It has been suggested that this occurs because the suspension has been configured for left-hand drive vehicles (i.e. designed to offset the normal slope of left-hand drive roads which is opposite to that of right-hand drive roads). As such, the left-hand side has less caster and camber.

Since a basic wheel alignment does not fix this problem, there are a number of possible solutions:

• Fitting polyurethane offset bushes;
• Having a thorough wheel alignment by suspension specialists which adjusts camber, caster and toe. Specifically, the upper control arms are aligned to adjust caster and camber, then toe is adjusted; or,
• It is understood that Toyota dealerships were able to fix the problem with a suspension kit, but would insist on performing a wheel alignment first.

2006-11 Toyota Aurion: sticky/melting dashboard

For2006-11 Toyota XV40 Aurion vehicles, the polymer which the dashboard is made from may degrade due to sunlight/heat and humidity. As a result, the dashboard surface may:

• Become sticky to the touch; and,
• Appear shiny and reflect more light, causing increased glare and impaired visibility.

The driver may also experience a ‘chemical’ smell.

Inresponse, Toyota USA initiated Warranty Enhancement Program ZE6 in 2014. The specific condition covered by the Warranty Enhancement Program was a cracked and/or sticky/melting dashboard in a covered (i.e. non-convertible) vehicle as a result of heat or humidity. If the condition was verified, the repair would be performed in accordance with the applicable Technical Service Bulletin (T-SB-0039-15). For the Warranty Enhancement Program,

• The ‘Primary Coverage’ extended the warranty until 31 May 2017 regardless of mileage or date of first use of the vehicle; and,
• The ‘Secondary Coverage’ supplemented the Primary Coverage for some owners by extending the warranty for ten (10) years from the date of first use of the vehicle, regardless of mileage.

Within Australia, there have been instances of owners having had their dashboards replaced free of charge.

Toyota XV40 Aurion: other problems and faults

• Air from the centre rear air conditioning may be warmer than the front – this problem was fixed by revised servo motors and air conditioning amplifiers.
• On early models, the battery could go flat overnight due to the remote start control module failing.
• The check engine light may illuminate due to a problem with the variable valve timing camshaft oil control valve.
• Dashboard rattles were not uncommon, even on new cars. To fix, the dashboard had to be removed and insulating clips installed.

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 August 2007, the TRD Aurion was a large, front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Altona, Victoria, the front-wheel drive XV40 Aurion was powered by a supercharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with a sequential shift function. The TRD Aurion range consisted of 3500S and 3500SL variants (‘sports’ and ‘sports luxury’, respectively). Unlike the Toyota XV40 Aurion, the TRD Aurion engine was fitted with an Eaton TVS (Twin Vortices System) four-lobe supercharger which was driven by a V-belt off the engine’s crank shaft… Read full TRD XV40 Aurion review

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Released in October 2006, the Toyota XV40 Series I (XV40.I) Aurion was a large, front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Altona, Victoria, the Aurion was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The XV40.I Aurion range initially consisted of five variants: AT-X, Prodigy, Sportivo SX6, Sportivo ZR6 and Presara, though limited-run Touring variants werReleased in 2007, 2008 and 2009… Read full Toyota XV40 Aurion review

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Images: Toyota XV40.II Aurion (2009-11)

Released in September 2009, the Toyota XV40 Series II (XV40.II) Aurion introduced additional features and minor cosmetic changes. For the latter, the Toyota XV40.II Aurion could be identified by its new front mask (including new bumpers, grilles, upgraded headlamps and fog lamp surrounds), faster-acting LED brake and tail lamps and new wheel designs. Inside, there were new colour combinations and improved instruments, lighting and storage spaces.

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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: Toyota XV40 Aurion crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing, a 2007 Toyota XV40 Aurion AT-X received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 30.03 out of 37. For additional information regarding this testing, please see the  ANCAP website.

Drive.com.au: 2007 TRD Aurion test