| Australian Model News | First TRD Showroom Model | Toyota Aurion TRD |
Toyota's Australia-only Aurion saloon has been given a workout by the team at Toyota Racing Developments (TRD). It's the first Toyota to be sold and branded as a TRD model, the company's tuner division likely to become more prominent in much the same way as other firm's sporting departments are now recognised names in their own right.
Based on the Camry, the Aurion features a 268bhp 3.5-litre V6 engine as standard. However, TRD has bolted on an Eaton Twin Vortices supercharger to boost its output to 323bhp. Torque rises to 295lb.ft, too. That all sounds terrific fun until you realise that unlike the Australian Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore rivals, the Aurion is front-wheel drive.
That boosted output finds its way to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. It could all get a touch unruly so unsurprisingly TRD has been careful to upgrade the mechanicals to help the Aurion cope with its increased power. Lower, firmer suspension with a degree of negative camber has been specified, TRD's own information amusingly stating that the changes 'mean agro never overtakes agility'. Should that not prove the case then usefully the Aurion is also fitted with Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, ABS with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution.
Two models are offered, the TRD 3500 S and the more luxurious TRD 3500 SL. Both wear their increased outputs with pride, with deeper front and rear bumpers, spoilers, a rear diffuser and 19-inch alloy wheels all adding some sporting swagger to the already smart-looking Aurion. Inside there's the usual sports seats and a push-start button. Prices start at Aus $56,990 for the S, the SL costing Aus $61,500. That's just £22,985 and £24,800. And to think we sent them there as a punishment...
Kyle Fortune - 22 Aug 2007