Smooth steed

The toyota aurion is just another term for rock-solid reliability. Plus, it offers comfort and safety and is aesthetically pleasing, says Paolo Rossetti

So where does the newly-unveiled Toyota Aurion fit in the Japanese powerhouse scheme of things? That was what was on my mind as I looked over the Aurion, parked in prime position under the showroom spotlights, almost basking in the attention it generated from visitors.

Quite honestly, it looks quite a bit like the Camry to me - and that's a compliment. Actually, is it a Camry? Strange, Toyota is not really in the habit of creating competition for itself.

Well, here's my understanding of the strategic launch of the Aurion: The venerable Camry has been a bestseller for aeons, almost mythical in its volume of sales and accolades from its owners.

The Camry Grande model was the most luxurious version, and above it was the even more luxurious plush sedan, the Avalon. Hmmm, don't see many of those on the roads.

And that indeed was the problem - so powerful was the draw and sales of the Camry that Toyota factories around the world were swamped by demands to produce more.

The Camry was offered in so many variants that it covered all customers' needs and stole the limelight not only from competitors, but also from its Toyota siblings.

Hence, the plan begins to make some sense. The new 2007 Camry (beautiful car!) is now only available in 4-cylinder models; and for those Toyota enthusiasts who require the highway smoothness of a 6-cylinder - make way for the Aurion!

It is a nicely designed car, modern in flow and smooth in overall aesthetics. It gives the impression of a trustworthy steed - always ready to serve you.

The design concept of "Dynamic yet Majestic" has been adopted for the Aurion's interior and exterior styling, which convey a contemporary, premium and quality image, which we have come to expect from Toyota.

Design cues of the new Camry are evident, since the assembly lines and even some body parts are identical, but it is in the engine department that things become truly unique to the Aurion.

The Toyota Aurion features a rock-steady version of the 2GR-FE V6 engine that also powers the American sixth generation Toyota Camry (not available in the UAE).

The engine is 3.5l in capacity with 268hp/6200 rpm and torque of 34.3 kg-m/4700 rpm. The combined fuel economy is rated at 9.9l/100 km, which puts it in the top spot in its class.

This is where the Aurion reaches maturity as a stand-alone model. The engine is superb - powerful yet fuel-efficient, smooth yet dynamic. It's the crown jewel of the modern Toyota line-up.

To achieve perfection in delivery, it is coupled to another superb piece of engineering: the new 6-speed sequential automatic transmission, which incorporates the latest technologies, including low-speed lock-up control and deceleration shift-down control.

Trying is believing, and this engine-transmission combination truly deserves a trial - even if you're not particularly considering purchasing an Aurion, it's worth your time to sample it so it can become a benchmark against which you can measure other cars.

Another brilliant feature of the Aurion is the quietness that Toyota vehicles are well known for, but excelled at in this particular model.

This incredible smoothness, almost a separation of air to let the Aurion flow through, has been achieved with focus on reduced engine and wind noise, and the extensive use of sound insulation throughout.

Safety, as expected, is another of Toyota's strong points, and the Aurion does not disappoint. It features anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution, plus Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control.

These are complemented by an advanced Global Outstanding Assessment body structure that absorbs collision impacts for vehicle occupants and pedestrians, together with driver and passenger airbags, side, and curtain shield airbags.

Toyota does not cut corners in this regard, and the six SRS airbags stand testament to this commitment to outstanding safety.

Inside I did feel the dash layout was a bit spartan, maybe even insipid, and I think it could be fancied up a bit to give it a little more personality, despite the three-dimensional gauge controls which were an interesting twist, but you can't argue with the comfort and spaciousness - it was excellent overall, both front and back.

Luxury conveniences such as 8-way adjustable seats, Smart Entry and Push-Button Engine Start systems, dual automatic air-conditioning, a rear powered sunshade, and available satellite navigation reinforce the Aurion's premium feel.

In the UAE four different option levels are available: Touring, two levels of Premium, and Luxury, so there is something for everyone, with changes mostly in the navigation system, leather seats and wheel rims moving from 16 to 17 inches in diameter.

Overall, I very much liked the new Toyota Aurion, and its place in the hierarchy of passenger Toyotas available in the UAE.

Expanding on what the new Camry has to offer, I have no doubt that it will be a resounding success with motorists who want to drive a refined, powerful and luxurious family sedan, with the peace of mind that comes from the legendary Toyota reliability and service support.

And when the time comes to sell or trade-in, you can be sure the value will be there.