You're spot on ! For 75k, I'd expected ALOT more Toyota. C'mon, don't drop your standard Toyota for Australia. While waiting for the hybrid to come to oz i watched the USA Highlander updates and totally loved the technology they have hence, I was utterly disappointed with this one.
It would hv been better if Toyota Australia were to release a PHEV model around this price given that the US also has these options such as the Rav4 Prime. Interestingly it's also not shown to be compatible with Connected Services. Not sure why the options served for the US are vastly better than in Australia especially in auto and tech
I think you should do a light off-roading comparison. It'd be interesting to see how things like a RAV4, CX-8, or Puma actually handle off road. I'm sure a lot of those cross-overs are actually more than capable on wet grass, sand, dirt tracks and national parks on the way to camp sites and things like that but people dismiss them immediately for massive 4x4 vehicles that are realistically overkill, just because they want to go camping once or twice throughout the entire time they own it. Curious to see how engineers efforts actually pay off. Take a RAV4 down a beach, through a muddy dirt track and up a grass trail to a campsite. Nothing extreme, but I'm sure it would handle it.
@@CarExpertAus Would love to know how well it handles in the snow, especially with the torque steer. I can't imagine it to be too confidence inspiring when driving up to the alps.
I had waited with great anticipation for this new Kluger. Having now seen the Australian version (not the US variant), I won't be upgrading to this new model for the following reasons: Cost; lack of rear window opening; out-dated (retro grade) infotainment screen; poor external cam quality; piano black interior; no wireless charging; no bluetooth CarPlay connection; no electric (video) rear view mirror; still not digital display for driver. Hoping Toyota might listen and correct these oversights in the next upgrade for this new model.
Toyota is making the most of the demand for their cars here in Australia aren't they, by giving us that (relatively) substandard infotainment system, no wireless charging and those hard plastics for 75k!? Also to your question on the light off-road segment for these SUVs Paul, yes please!
Hi Paul, yes an off road comparison between the Kluger AWD Hybrid GXL vs the Subaru Outback Touring vs the RAV 4 Edge. Not just down dirt tracks, but down some rough tracks, mud tracks and on sand. Look forward to the results.
Hi Paul, thanks for another detailed review and for not holding back on your opinions. I have to agree about the shortcomings you pointed out on what seems a fairly expensive vehicle. Regarding off-road capabilities, yes, *some* would be great. Not sure I'd ever consider taking a ($75k or more) semi-4WD vehicle down a track lined with overgrown blackberries, but corrugated and potholed dirt roads...absolutely!
LED headlights aren’t that good, I live in the country so no street lighting and they are so bright that your eyes adjust and you can’t see anything pass the end of the beam. Also other LED headlights come towards you are irritating.
Definitely a off road test as I do a lot gravel work and my AWD Territory has been a gem. Fuel economy is its short fall. In the hunt for a outback country trip SUV.
Can you imagine the meeting at Toyota HQ… “Australian Kluger, let’s not include the big screen or wireless charging” “Why not? We have the parts…” “Those crazy aussies won’t want those features. Trust me, I’m in marketing” “….”
The american version has the wireless charger in the centre console, too small for most phones with a case to fit in, so not useful for most. Back to the drawing board!
I would love to see a towing test with hybrid. Given I only tow the Jayco a few times a year I’d be happy for the towing ability to be just OK, then benefit from the hybrid the rest of the year.
Is it better off going for a Kia Sorento GT Edition over Toyota Kluger? I guess the higher end Kia is priced at around $68k with better tech incorporation as opposed to $75k in this one. The infotainment & the dashboard looks so dated in Kluger.
Great review Paul! I recently test drove the kluger hybrid gx. I was unsure if it had anything to do with the 30 minute test drive in and around the suburban roads but the fuel consumption came up to 7.8litres/100kms. I was quite positive and keen to book it but this fuel consumption put some brakes on my decision. What are your thoughts on it? I have a RAV4 which gives a very high fuel consumption upon refuelling and slowly gets back to around the usual 7.8 to 8Litre mark. Do you think that my higher reading o the fuel consumption on the kluger test drive was due to suburban roads or maybe had been recently fuelled up? Any advice is much appreciated! Also thoroughly enjoy all your reviews mate👍
Great review Paul. Good job. My review: Re: Klugger! Engine 7/10 (ok) Interior 5/10 (Bland) Exterior 1/10 (As usual the ugly car image must keep working for a Toyota). Price: Crazy. Question for Toyota HQ: How ugly can you design a car before people actually say yuk we are not buying? Keeping trying you are just about there.
Thinking about doing same. I reckon Toyota kluger has the least difference between trims, quite disproportionate with the price bumps. May I ask did you get much off of the advertised drive away price?
I’ve been driving my new kluge GXL for 2 weeks. I agree on the review. Interior is a let down. But it’s the best option for similar size city driving. For those still thinking, maybe get GX is best value but definitely get the hybrid. It is so smooth and you never have to worry about petrol bills.
@@KBWarrioR2018 yes, pre ordered and paid full price. My one was the first one delivered to the dealership. Again whichever version, choose hybrid. That’s what makes it worth, being only hybrid seven seater on market.
I like how this is the first time ever that the Highlander has been offered in the UK, I love the way it looks but it seems that we get pretty much exactly the same model as you guys without the 12" infotainment screen and the wireless charging pad. Strange. Great review too however I did notice how you commented on the way the seats look but not how comfortable they are although in the driving portion is does look like you are cacooned in safety.
Paul what would you expect this to use on long trips? Does the hybrid continue to provide benefits by continually storing excess energy or do the advantages diminish on longer trips?
In your speed test the Hybrid Kluger seemed to do 0-100 km in 7.76sec which is incredibly fast for a family SUV! You make light of this by saying its just 'adequate' but in reality it is as quick as the outgoing Holden Commodore, a speed response most people would be ecstatic about in a family SUV.
I'm kind of glad its not a fully digital dash...those are just another gimmick to go wrong down the track! 75k is a fair chunk of change. You'd have to be pretty mad to buy the V6 now that the hybrid is out. Amazing fuel economy.
Hi Paul, nice review as always. Since your reviews, other reviewers really do feel like they are reading the brochures. 😀 Regarding the light off road, I literally have to pause this video and comment. YES PLEASE. You can find a nice state forest, some fire trails or a camping ground with gravel roads and that should help a lot. A bit of info on their ground clearance, approach angle and their AWD systems, will be icing on the cake. Also I would really appreciate if you can find a shorter human than you (5'4"-5'8") to try out the third row. Rest everything is just perfect.
Another Great Video. Light Trail test... YES Please..!! In review of what's available the only things it's got going for it is 6.3l/km, just doesn't seem to compete
20:40 - ride on bumpy country roads. Would a Prado be better? I live regionally and the roads are pretty bad. We are tossing up between Kluger hybrid & Prado. But not sure if hybrid is still good when we mainly drive on 90 roads and 110 freeways. We probably wouldn't use the 4wd capability of Prado often but just can't help but feel for the same purchase price why not go Prado?
@@Ash_Simo and yet $70K. Maybe they want people to buy the RX instead! I know I'd spend more to get away from this, or the same money for something better from competitors.
As a previous owner and respectful of their vehicles, i can,t help thinking they are being a bit arrogant and burying their head in the sand when it comes to competing in the market place.
Sure Paul, an off-road test for SUV's would be a good to have. I've currently booked a Kia Sorento 2021 diesel GT-Line and the decision was driven partly by your review of the car too. In the mean while would also be good if you could do a compare between cars like Kia Sorento / Skoda Kodiaq / Volkswagen Toureg and the Highlander. Thanks a lot for your informative videos as always. Cheers!!
V6 cost extra 18,000 dollars in fuel, if do 300,000kms. Hybrid battery cost and maintenance cost approximately extra 8,000. I'll take a smooth reliable and powerful V6 anyday!
Those hard touchpoints, no wireless charging and the 8-inch screen only, yikes for a $75K car... I got a top spec Acadia AWD plus a top spec Yaris Hybrid for just $5K more. Best of both worlds!
I own a bronze edition here in California. this is the smoothest-riding SUV on the road. it handles very well. it's quiet. I like it lots. compare to my GR86 it is a loud and stiff ride.
Great review Paul! Was expected to be as good as the current race but after listen what you said for me it may worth to wait another year or two till some of the issues have improved. A light off road would be great but you seem not quiet satisfied with the performance.
Each to their own, but there are so many options in this class now I couldn’t imagine this would be near the top of the list for the price vs. features. Many other vehicles that look a heap better than this too.
There really anthing to compare it too. Hyundai/Kia makes you choose a Diesel. Waiting for the new Pathfinder, looks nicer, not sure if the new model will be offered in a Hybrid as it isn't in the US.
Thank you for your review, Paul. It's disappointing this vehicle is sourced from the US. Unfortunately that means lower build quality compared to the Japanese sourced Camry and RAV, which share TNGA-K platform with the Kluger, as indicated with your "Shake Test". It also means variations with some components compared to its cousins. FYI, 6.3 litres/100 km equates to 44.7 MPG, as in real Gallons, not the undersized US Gallon, so you're underquoting here.
Pity this model is so expensive and lacks finish. The Peugeot 5008 GT diesel is a bit smaller but seems so much better value for money and with a wonderful finish. Looking forward to Paul reviewing that one. There is a definate lack of fuel efficient 7 seaters in Australia.
We have the same issue with the Yaris cross urban awd,the lane assist with lane centre assist is absolutely shocking,bouncing off the lines then forgets where it’s going, tries to push across to the next lane. We just had Toyota look at it and they can’t fault 🤷🏼♂️
I’d love to see a slightly narrower versions of Klugger in Japan. Although I think previous gen was more utilitarian. I wished this car was more square and utilitarian.
Gday Paul, Could you please do a review on the V6 Grande Toyota Kluger? We are in the market for a new SUV and your reviews I find are very informative and you generally know more then the car dealers. Also like others have commented, a semi off road review would be great with other SUVs. I think it's something that's missing in the semi off road market, which is accessories. We have taken our previous Kluger's off road and to the snow and beach and have performed well.. just missing some ground clearance. There are so many after market accessories in America for these cars and it's a shame we can't get them here. I would love to put a 2inch lift kit/BF Goodrich Trail Terrains/Nudge bar and small GME arial onto the Kluger. I know Kluger's aren't off road machines like Hilux, Prado and Landcruiser but are a good practical in-between semi off-road SUV, if you need 7 seats.
@@CarExpertAus Thanks for the quick reply. Yes I know about the four-cylinder turbo but I have a soft spot for the V6 and also have my eye on one which seems to have had a "black pack" optioned on it. All black grill, black side mirrors and black wheels done by the dealer.
At 75k and considering some of the points you mentioned about screen and camera clarity and blurb indicators. I think the prado is a better option for the price. Get more a more capable vehicle. Kruger can’t tow much or go off-road so I can’t see this selling huge volumes. Another competitor would be Everest or even disco.
In terms of fuel, could you Please shed some light on why highlanders in US and CA runs on regular unleaded (their 87) whereas klugers here require premium gas? Reason this is important is if you consider the price difference between v6 and hybrid to begin with and then factor in the premium fuel price on top, the v6 starts to look pretty close.. might I say justifiable for the extra hp. Thanks in advance.
"Dear Khan, Thank you for your recent email received by the Toyota Guest Experience Centre on 21 June 2021 Regarding 2021 Kluger Hybrid. We appreciate your enquiry and wish to confirm the fuel type to be used in this model is as follow: -Research octane number- 95 or higher -Premium unleaded. Regrettably, we cannot confirm any specification on any overseas model. Thank you for contacting Toyota and allowing us the opportunity to respond"
You're spot on ! For 75k, I'd expected ALOT more Toyota. C'mon, don't drop your standard Toyota for Australia. While waiting for the hybrid to come to oz i watched the USA Highlander updates and totally loved the technology they have hence, I was utterly disappointed with this one.
Toyota has always treated Australia poorly with less features and trim choice's
@@daweigo6851 you should,see the bs we get in Trinidad....Not for private importers we would be stuck for choice and festures
It would hv been better if Toyota Australia were to release a PHEV model around this price given that the US also has these options such as the Rav4 Prime. Interestingly it's also not shown to be compatible with Connected Services. Not sure why the options served for the US are vastly better than in Australia especially in auto and tech
The entry model is 52k and is only different in interior trim. The top trim is overpriced to be sure
Light off roading comparing different modes and their effectiveness will be a great thing!
Absolutely.!.!
I agree
Agreed!
I think you should do a light off-roading comparison. It'd be interesting to see how things like a RAV4, CX-8, or Puma actually handle off road. I'm sure a lot of those cross-overs are actually more than capable on wet grass, sand, dirt tracks and national parks on the way to camp sites and things like that but people dismiss them immediately for massive 4x4 vehicles that are realistically overkill, just because they want to go camping once or twice throughout the entire time they own it.
Curious to see how engineers efforts actually pay off. Take a RAV4 down a beach, through a muddy dirt track and up a grass trail to a campsite. Nothing extreme, but I'm sure it would handle it.
18:10 Yes Paul. Personally I would love to see you guys test out the off-road performance of these cars
THank you! We'll add it to the list.
@@CarExpertAus Would love to know how well it handles in the snow, especially with the torque steer. I can't imagine it to be too confidence inspiring when driving up to the alps.
Yes Paul, please do a test of the off-road capability for those all 4WD or AWD hybrid. Cheers.
@@wellymotten +1 to that
If you want an off road Toyota then get a Prado or Hilux, maybe even a Fortuner. These soft ones are for the normal road.
$75k AUD for this Toyota is about $25k in Toyota tax. Like most Toyota vehicle it looks modern enough but the tech is something from 10 years ago.
Off-road SUV tests would be nice!
Thanks for the vote!
Would be good to know how it handles going to the snow.
I’d love to see it.
Pajero Sport would easily win 😅
Light off road test would be great, especially on the new Sorento with its Mud, Snow and Sand mode please
Baffles me why they don’t offer the 12” screen in Australia unlike the US
Agreed!
Exactly, they say it's hard to fit the 12 inch in R H drive configuration. Can't understand the logic.
I think they are waiting for the next get infotainment system coming out this year
Toyota infotainment has always been woeful.
Form Corolla to LandCruiser, they always seem a decade behind.
Hard to reconfigure the 12" into a 30cm screen. Metric is tough for many brands.
I had waited with great anticipation for this new Kluger. Having now seen the Australian version (not the US variant), I won't be upgrading to this new model for the following reasons: Cost; lack of rear window opening; out-dated (retro grade) infotainment screen; poor external cam quality; piano black interior; no wireless charging; no bluetooth CarPlay connection; no electric (video) rear view mirror; still not digital display for driver. Hoping Toyota might listen and correct these oversights in the next upgrade for this new model.
Hi Paul, a V6 comparison and an off road test will be great. I would love to know what is the performance like between the 2. Cheers
Finally, an in-depth 3rd-row review, thank you!
Definitely off road test, since it’s snow season soon I’d love to see a dedicated video for snow driving
Definitely keen to see how some of these SUVs perform off-road.
Toyota is making the most of the demand for their cars here in Australia aren't they, by giving us that (relatively) substandard infotainment system, no wireless charging and those hard plastics for 75k!?
Also to your question on the light off-road segment for these SUVs Paul, yes please!
rather go for kia sorento GT
Exactly
Hi Paul, yes an off road comparison between the Kluger AWD Hybrid GXL vs the Subaru Outback Touring vs the RAV 4 Edge. Not just down dirt tracks, but down some rough tracks, mud tracks and on sand. Look forward to the results.
Very selfishly, I'd like to see how this goes on snowy roads. I'd also love to see how the storage is with the seats in a 2-2-1 configuration.
Hi Paul, thanks for another detailed review and for not holding back on your opinions. I have to agree about the shortcomings you pointed out on what seems a fairly expensive vehicle. Regarding off-road capabilities, yes, *some* would be great. Not sure I'd ever consider taking a ($75k or more) semi-4WD vehicle down a track lined with overgrown blackberries, but corrugated and potholed dirt roads...absolutely!
So glad to see they didn’t stick with the old candle burner head lights
Me too!
But with no active shadowing I'll never buy it
LED headlights aren’t that good, I live in the country so no street lighting and they are so bright that your eyes adjust and you can’t see anything pass the end of the beam. Also other LED headlights come towards you are irritating.
Great Video Paul, can you please update us when the new Landcruiser 300 will be available in Australia and what price range?
Thanks
Definitely a off road test as I do a lot gravel work and my AWD Territory has been a gem. Fuel economy is its short fall. In the hunt for a outback country trip SUV.
Can you imagine the meeting at Toyota HQ…
“Australian Kluger, let’s not include the big screen or wireless charging”
“Why not? We have the parts…”
“Those crazy aussies won’t want those features. Trust me, I’m in marketing”
“….”
Agreed. Some of these decisions are so dumb lmao.
The american version has the wireless charger in the centre console, too small for most phones with a case to fit in, so not useful for most. Back to the drawing board!
I would love to see a towing test with hybrid. Given I only tow the Jayco a few times a year I’d be happy for the towing ability to be just OK, then benefit from the hybrid the rest of the year.
Finally I never knew this day would come
😄
Fair vid👍it looks like Subaru front n $75k I thought Holden SUV was expensive at 60k+ no match for Hyundai Palisade.
Is it better off going for a Kia Sorento GT Edition over Toyota Kluger? I guess the higher end Kia is priced at around $68k with better tech incorporation as opposed to $75k in this one. The infotainment & the dashboard looks so dated in Kluger.
Hi Paul, congrats to you and your team on achieving the 100k subscribers. Keep up the good job!
Front makes it look a bit like Subaru, rear end looks like Lexus version of the Fortuner.
Great review Paul! I recently test drove the kluger hybrid gx. I was unsure if it had anything to do with the 30 minute test drive in and around the suburban roads but the fuel consumption came up to 7.8litres/100kms.
I was quite positive and keen to book it but this fuel consumption put some brakes on my decision. What are your thoughts on it?
I have a RAV4 which gives a very high fuel consumption upon refuelling and slowly gets back to around the usual 7.8 to 8Litre mark.
Do you think that my higher reading o the fuel consumption on the kluger test drive was due to suburban roads or maybe had been recently fuelled up? Any advice is much appreciated! Also thoroughly enjoy all your reviews mate👍
Great review Paul. Good job.
My review:
Re: Klugger!
Engine 7/10 (ok)
Interior 5/10 (Bland)
Exterior 1/10 (As usual the ugly car
image must keep working for a Toyota).
Price: Crazy.
Question for Toyota HQ: How ugly can you design a car before people actually say yuk we are not buying? Keeping trying you are just about there.
So your not a fan
I mean he is right tho. My dad has a Kluger and it doesn't look that great, interior looks very bland, hybrid engine is efficient but barely quick.
Excellent review as always. Was actually waiting for this.
I have ordered Kluger GX AWD Hybrid. Have to wait 4 to 6 months. All the safety features are standard on all grades so went with the GX.
Thinking about doing same. I reckon Toyota kluger has the least difference between trims, quite disproportionate with the price bumps.
May I ask did you get much off of the advertised drive away price?
@@KBWarrioR2018 not much as they are in high demand and takes longer to order.
@@dixitapatel7790 i guessed so. Thank you. Congrats 👏 on ur new car
toyota hybirds are so good love the review paul keep it up
Thanks for watching!
Not if you want, to tow more than 2t.
@@brycem0 no ones buys a highlander to tow. Lets be honest here
@@1PvP true alough here in Australia we do call it the Kluger but overseas it's called the Highlander
Hi Paul great review. Keen to get your view on the performance of Kluger Highlander vs CX 9 Azami. Does the Kluger have an edge over Mazda?
Love the detailed analysis. Love the drive test pointers. Definitely OFF ROAD TEST. ROLL OVER TEST, Sharp turns.
Testing offroad performance for AWD cars is a definite yes for me. Actually I even mentioned this point on your 100k celebration post
I’ve been driving my new kluge GXL for 2 weeks. I agree on the review. Interior is a let down. But it’s the best option for similar size city driving. For those still thinking, maybe get GX is best value but definitely get the hybrid. It is so smooth and you never have to worry about petrol bills.
Just picked up my GXL too 3 days ago. Would agree. I think Grande is disappointing Value.
Wow u guys got it quick! Did you pre order? Also did u have to pay the full advertised price?
@@KBWarrioR2018 yes, pre ordered and paid full price. My one was the first one delivered to the dealership. Again whichever version, choose hybrid. That’s what makes it worth, being only hybrid seven seater on market.
@@adrianquek1849 agree, with over 80k of price . we would have range of selections to choose from.the price is very embracing
I like how this is the first time ever that the Highlander has been offered in the UK, I love the way it looks but it seems that we get pretty much exactly the same model as you guys without the 12" infotainment screen and the wireless charging pad. Strange. Great review too however I did notice how you commented on the way the seats look but not how comfortable they are although in the driving portion is does look like you are cacooned in safety.
Paul what would you expect this to use on long trips? Does the hybrid continue to provide benefits by continually storing excess energy or do the advantages diminish on longer trips?
@paul
Thanks for the review Paul. We would love to see commentary on the new Kluger's off-road capabilities.
Yes light off road tests please 👍
In your speed test the Hybrid Kluger seemed to do 0-100 km in 7.76sec which is incredibly fast for a family SUV! You make light of this by saying its just 'adequate' but in reality it is as quick as the outgoing Holden Commodore, a speed response most people would be ecstatic about in a family SUV.
I'm kind of glad its not a fully digital dash...those are just another gimmick to go wrong down the track! 75k is a fair chunk of change. You'd have to be pretty mad to buy the V6 now that the hybrid is out. Amazing fuel economy.
Hi Paul, nice review as always.
Since your reviews, other reviewers really do feel like they are reading the brochures. 😀
Regarding the light off road, I literally have to pause this video and comment. YES PLEASE.
You can find a nice state forest, some fire trails or a camping ground with gravel roads and that should help a lot. A bit of info on their ground clearance, approach angle and their AWD systems, will be icing on the cake.
Also I would really appreciate if you can find a shorter human than you (5'4"-5'8") to try out the third row.
Rest everything is just perfect.
Another Great Video. Light Trail test... YES Please..!! In review of what's available the only things it's got going for it is 6.3l/km, just doesn't seem to compete
Hi Paul as usual great review, Paul can you review the New Ssangyong Rexton, I am thinking of buying one need your advise on that, Thanks Manik
20:40 - ride on bumpy country roads. Would a Prado be better? I live regionally and the roads are pretty bad. We are tossing up between Kluger hybrid & Prado. But not sure if hybrid is still good when we mainly drive on 90 roads and 110 freeways. We probably wouldn't use the 4wd capability of Prado often but just can't help but feel for the same purchase price why not go Prado?
How good is the drive assistant
Is it just me, or is the interior already dated?
The whole car almost seems dated. Lacks in external LED lighting. Interior is same old same old.
@@Ash_Simo and yet $70K. Maybe they want people to buy the RX instead! I know I'd spend more to get away from this, or the same money for something better from competitors.
Interior looks so bland. 70 plus car nearing luxury tax segment and interior looks like 25k corolla ...
Toyota hasn't and doesn't ever sell so many based on its window dressings. You're the wrong target demographic of that's the deciding factor
As a previous owner and respectful of their vehicles, i can,t help thinking they are being a bit arrogant and burying their head in the sand when it comes to competing in the market place.
I'd stick to diesel instead of a hybrid
Yes please do a light off road test or attempt your standard off-road course see how far they make it!! Thanks Paul
Coming in April for mid-size SUVs first :-D
@@CarExpertAus would have loved to see the new RAV4 you did the other day - :)
Hi, i cannot find a review of the 2021/22 Kluger Grande V6 petrol. Will you be doing one as i am interested in buying one. Thanks.
Paul backkk, now I am waiting for BMW X7 and congratulation for your new born baby!!!
Thank you! Will try and track an X7 down in the coming months.
Another wicked review, thank you!
Much appreciated!
At this point in time a would only like a petrol V6 with AWD :) Fuel consumption isn't a worry. I have a cheap little hatchback as a daily.
Light off roasting for sure. Definitely would like to see how a hybrid Handles with a bit of off Road.
Sure Paul, an off-road test for SUV's would be a good to have. I've currently booked a Kia Sorento 2021 diesel GT-Line and the decision was driven partly by your review of the car too. In the mean while would also be good if you could do a compare between cars like Kia Sorento / Skoda Kodiaq / Volkswagen Toureg and the Highlander. Thanks a lot for your informative videos as always. Cheers!!
Thanks for the excellent review. Please add off road SUV review. Thanks
V6 cost extra 18,000 dollars in fuel, if do 300,000kms. Hybrid battery cost and maintenance cost approximately extra 8,000.
I'll take a smooth reliable and powerful V6 anyday!
Hello Paul good video
Hope to see more like this!
Thanks, will do!
Thank you for great video, are you able to make video for Toyota Kluger Grande Hybrid 2022
Paul, can we also cover towball downweight for all SUV,s.
And did this have the same powertrain as the RAV4 hybrid?
Is the Kluger hybrid GX capable of towing a caravan approx (1600kg),up steep hills as the torque is less than the non hybrid variant?
Those hard touchpoints, no wireless charging and the 8-inch screen only, yikes for a $75K car... I got a top spec Acadia AWD plus a top spec Yaris Hybrid for just $5K more.
Best of both worlds!
Which car would you choose Kluger gxl or Mazda CX60 phev
Which one would you choose between this Kluger or Sorento GT sir? :)
Do it! Test the Klugger in an off road setting. Also test it against other similar vehicles.
I own a bronze edition here in California. this is the smoothest-riding SUV on the road. it handles very well. it's quiet. I like it lots. compare to my GR86 it is a loud and stiff ride.
Great review Paul! Was expected to be as good as the current race but after listen what you said for me it may worth to wait another year or two till some of the issues have improved. A light off road would be great but you seem not quiet satisfied with the performance.
Buy the 2023 one
Definitely keen to see how some of this performs light off-road.
Each to their own, but there are so many options in this class now I couldn’t imagine this would be near the top of the list for the price vs. features. Many other vehicles that look a heap better than this too.
What would you recommend?
There really anthing to compare it too. Hyundai/Kia makes you choose a Diesel. Waiting for the new Pathfinder, looks nicer, not sure if the new model will be offered in a Hybrid as it isn't in the US.
Thank you for your review, Paul. It's disappointing this vehicle is sourced from the US. Unfortunately that means lower build quality compared to the Japanese sourced Camry and RAV, which share TNGA-K platform with the Kluger, as indicated with your "Shake Test". It also means variations with some components compared to its cousins.
FYI, 6.3 litres/100 km equates to 44.7 MPG, as in real Gallons, not the undersized US Gallon, so you're underquoting here.
I don't see that at all, it's built to Toyota standards. Not sold in Japan because its not suitable to the market.
Pity this model is so expensive and lacks finish. The Peugeot 5008 GT diesel is a bit smaller but seems so much better value for money and with a wonderful finish. Looking forward to Paul reviewing that one. There is a definate lack of fuel efficient 7 seaters in Australia.
We have the same issue with the Yaris cross urban awd,the lane assist with lane centre assist is absolutely shocking,bouncing off the lines then forgets where it’s going, tries to push across to the next lane. We just had Toyota look at it and they can’t fault 🤷🏼♂️
Can you please review the base hybrid model? It does look like a much better buy with $25k saving.
nice review Paul, thank you. please review for off road performance. It would be nicer GXL trim this time:)
Like your review Paul but not impressed with the new Kluger. America is given the best and we get whatever’s left!!
I’d love to see a slightly narrower versions of Klugger in Japan.
Although I think previous gen was more utilitarian. I wished this car was more square and utilitarian.
European variants have Wireless Charger that is located in the center armrest.
Heated Steering Wheel is also available for them as well.
The European models have Paddle Shifters.
Australia / New Zealand does not get them?
Like the durometer ....you should invest in a decibel meter....which will give us an idea whether the cabin is quite in coarse chip roads
Yes - do some light off road stuff. Reasonably Muddy/slippery hill (not referring to proper off road conditions)
I’m tossing up between the Grande and the Kia Sorento GT diesel what you think ?
Go the Kia Sorrento. Way get value for money.
Absolutely Kia.
Can you do light off road test on the new toyota kluger hybrid please
Gday Paul, Could you please do a review on the V6 Grande Toyota Kluger? We are in the market for a new SUV and your reviews I find are very informative and you generally know more then the car dealers. Also like others have commented, a semi off road review would be great with other SUVs. I think it's something that's missing in the semi off road market, which is accessories. We have taken our previous Kluger's off road and to the snow and beach and have performed well.. just missing some ground clearance. There are so many after market accessories in America for these cars and it's a shame we can't get them here. I would love to put a 2inch lift kit/BF Goodrich Trail Terrains/Nudge bar and small GME arial onto the Kluger. I know Kluger's aren't off road machines like Hilux, Prado and Landcruiser but are a good practical in-between semi off-road SUV, if you need 7 seats.
The V6 has just been killed and replaced by a four-cylinder turbo. We have a review on the four-cylinder dropping soon.
@@CarExpertAus Thanks for the quick reply. Yes I know about the four-cylinder turbo but I have a soft spot for the V6 and also have my eye on one which seems to have had a "black pack" optioned on it. All black grill, black side mirrors and black wheels done by the dealer.
Light off road comparison between Kluger vs Sorento vs Santa Fe will make a great video
Please make a video on the Toyota Kluger Grande (Hybrid) 2024
Is the new Kluger good for a single man???
Plus one to test the off road capabilities for the Kluger, Santa Fe, Sorento, Pathfinder, and their like.
Hi Paul have you tested the line keeping system, the demo I test it was a joke
At 75k and considering some of the points you mentioned about screen and camera clarity and blurb indicators. I think the prado is a better option for the price. Get more a more capable vehicle. Kruger can’t tow much or go off-road so I can’t see this selling huge volumes. Another competitor would be Everest or even disco.
They should give us the RAV4 prime here is Aus
That engine in a kluger would be perfect
In terms of fuel, could you Please shed some light on why highlanders in US and CA runs on regular unleaded (their 87) whereas klugers here require premium gas?
Reason this is important is if you consider the price difference between v6 and hybrid to begin with and then factor in the premium fuel price on top, the v6 starts to look pretty close.. might I say justifiable for the extra hp. Thanks in advance.
"Dear Khan,
Thank you for your recent email received by the Toyota Guest Experience Centre on 21 June 2021 Regarding 2021 Kluger Hybrid.
We appreciate your enquiry and wish to confirm the fuel type to be used in this model is as follow:
-Research octane number- 95 or higher
-Premium unleaded.
Regrettably, we cannot confirm any specification on any overseas model.
Thank you for contacting Toyota and allowing us the opportunity to respond"
There are two octane ratings RON and MON we use research and the US uses motor, can’t remember maybe there 85 is our 91.
Bring on the light off road suv tests!
Off-Road tests are always good Paul 🤩
The camera looks down on Paul because Egor is 6'8". Egor has kyphosis and a hunched back which he developed in Russia as a child.
Welcome back Paul.
Awesome review, more cons than pros considering it's a new model.
Is there any chance you could review a 4Runner?
Would love to see off roading for SUV’s great channel
Great review mate!
Hey guys, @ CarExpert, have been able to arrange the off-road part ???