STEVE COLQUHOUN June 20, 2012
They are the same price, but one delivers performance, the other fuel-efficiency. Who wins?
Toyota Camry Hybrid HL: From $41,490 plus on-road and dealer costs. 2.5-litre 4-cyl plus electric motor; 118kW/213Nm; continuously variable transmission; 5.2L/100km and 121g/km CO2; FWD
Toyota Aurion Prodigy: From $41,490 plus on-road and dealer costs. 3.5-litre V6, 200kW/336Nm; 6-sp auto; 9.3L/100km and 215g/km CO2; FWD
Camry
Top model in two-step Camry Hybrid range well appointed with electrically-adjustable leather seats, dual-zone climate control with rear-seat vents, auto headlights, 10-speaker audio system with Bluetooth phone connection and audio streaming, sat-nav, reversing camera and rear parking sensors. Seven airbags (includes driver’s knee), stability control and five-star ANCAP crash rating.
Aurion
Mid-spec Aurion matches the Camry specification but adds memory settings for the driver, keyless entry and start, and auto wipers. However, it misses out on sat-nav and gets only a six-speaker audio system.
Winner: Camry
Camry
Instrumentation is clear and legible with excellent displays to show engine performance and fuel use. Cabin quality is generally high, save for a few jarring design issues. Big, comfy seats aren’t as supportive as Aurion’s.
Aurion
With both cars joined at the hip throughout their local development, layout and storage are equally impressive. Doesn’t dazzle with technology like the Camry does, though.
Winner: Camry
Camry
Petrol-electric drivetrain combined with CVT can feel a bit artificial until you get used to it. Perky for its size and keeps up well in traffic. Ability to run in zero-emission EV mode at lower speeds is handy.
Aurion
Feisty V6 feels just like a family sedan should with good response and a nice, although well muted, engine note. Can’t lay a glove on the Camry Hybrid in the fuel use stakes, though.
Winner: Camry
Camry
Feels the more planted courtesy of extra weight of the battery pack over the rear axle. Some body roll in cornering, though, and steering - though direct - offers little feedback. Brakes have a wooden feel and pedal makes an annoying clicking noise when pressed.
Aurion
Slightly busier ride with small intrusions more regularly evident. Both cars are respectably quiet, but the Aurion feels more relaxed at highway speeds. Has a tendency to push into gentle understeer if pressed. Steering offers better feel than the Camry’s.
Winner: Aurion
Camry
Excellent array of storage options throughout the cabin. Large car-like rear seat real estate for a medium car. Boot space compromised by battery pack, though and only one seat folds down to liberate a small gap for transporting long items.
Aurion
Interior dimensions are identical but larger boot (515 litres v 421) with rear seats that split-fold down clinches the family vote.
Winner: Aurion
Camry
The Aurion might have more power but the Camry’s stellar fuel use is a decisive advantage. It’s not as much fun to drive as the Aurion, but that’s something many Toyota buyers will be happy to trade off for a smaller petrol bill.
Aurion
A capable and viable alternative to the traditional large cars, with excellent value, capable road manners and plenty of room for growing families. Some people will simply prefer the traditional combo of a V6 and a six-speed auto and they won’t be disappointed here.
Winner: Aurion