Comparative examination of seven-seater vehicles: Toyota Kluger GX with all-wheel drive
The third-generation Toyota Kluger, also known as the Highlander in some markets, has undergone significant changes, setting it apart from its predecessors. The key differences mainly lie in its production location, powertrain, and specifications.
Production Location
The third-generation Kluger is produced at Toyota's manufacturing facilities in North America, reflecting its North American focus. This contrasts with previous generations, which were primarily produced in Japan or other regions.
Platform and Specifications
The current Kluger shares its underpinnings closely with the US Toyota Camry and Avalon, moving onto a more modern and efficient platform. It adopts a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine combined with hybrid technology, producing a total system output of approximately 184 kW, delivered through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with all-wheel drive. This is a shift from previous models that often used larger V6 engines with less focus on hybrid efficiency. Fuel economy has significantly improved, with the hybrid Kluger models claiming about 5.6L/100km combined cycle, whereas the older V6 models typically consumed between 9 and 10L/100km in mixed driving conditions. The ride quality has been softened compared to previous, more performance-oriented tuning, emphasizing comfort consistent with its North American market positioning.
Warranty and Servicing
The latest Kluger offers an extended warranty setup, such as a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, engine and driveline warranty up to seven years, and a hybrid battery warranty extending to 10 years, conditioned on servicing within Toyota's dealer network.
The Toyota Kluger is more powerful than previous models, with strong acceleration and mid-range urge. Its dynamics are between dull and delightful, with a muted steering feel but agile handling. The Kluger's dimensions are (L/W/H/W-B): 4865/1925/1730/2790mm and its weight is 2020kg.
The MY17 facelift of the Toyota Kluger has been unveiled in the US, featuring an eight-speed auto for improved economy. The Kluger is the biggest seller in this test. Its suspension has been retuned in Australia for improved handling and gravel-road stability.
The Toyota Kluger's negatives include having an unsettled ride, flat seats, road noise, and no diesel option. However, it offers adult-accommodating space, rear variable air-con control, overhead lights, cupholders, storage, and sufficient glazing for passengers to gaze through. Its cargo capacity is 529 litres. The tyres are Michelin Latitude Tour 245/60R18 105T.
The Kluger's braking distance from 100km/h is the longest in the test (41.2m), and its test fuel consumption is 13.5L/100km. It can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 7.8 seconds and can do 0-400m in 15.7 seconds at 147.4km/h. The verdict for the Toyota Kluger is 6.5/10. The Kluger's positives include being strong, roomy, gutsy, practical, and relatively efficient.
In comparison to its competitors, the Nissan Pathfinder, while smooth and likeable, falls short of the competition. The Holden Captiva LT AWD fails to make a compelling case over more composed competitors. The Hyundai Santa Fe has headroom and visibility issues in the third row. The Honda Odyssey has experienced a downward slide in its story. The Volkswagen Multivan's commercial vehicle origins let it down against more sophisticated competition.
The revamped V6 engine in the Toyota Kluger now has direct injection. The Kluger's 3-year resale value is 55%. The Kluger's headlights, grille, bumpers, and tail-lights have been redesigned. The Kluger's price as tested is $46,740, including metallic paint.
[1] Wheels magazine, October 2016 issue [2] Source: Toyota Australia website and various automotive reviews
Cars are a notable part of the lifestyle emphasized in the North American market, as evidenced by the shift in powertrain and focus on hybrid efficiency in the third-generation Toyota Kluger, produced exclusively in Toyota's North American manufacturing facilities. A more sporty driving experience can be found in the Kluger, as it boasts a stronger acceleration and agile handling compared to previous models, making it suitable for a variety of sports and leisure activities.
