I got a 2012 Toyota kluger grande,the thing is just fantastic, it’s a like having a very loyal dog, you know it’s always got your back and it should never break down
There is nothing boring about the security you feel knowing you're going to get from point A to point B without being stranded on the side of the road. 2009 Toyota highlander limited, 123,000 miles, absolutely zero issues in six years of driving.
I've a 2009 Highlander Limited, purchased new and 14 years later I still love it. I was 58 and joked when I brought it home that, given Toyota quality, this might be my last new car and that is proving to be true. With only 97K miles I suspect it will lumber on after I have departed the scene. My only caveat is beware of some after market parts- time came to rebuild the front end and my mechanic used after market spindles causing a great deal of grief. A retired Toyota rep finally ID'd the problem, my mech made the necessary changes and Voila- she runs great and having always been garaged she still gleams when polished. Best money I ever spent on any vehicle.
Nice review. I've had an Australian 2008 7 seater AWD kxr since it was 6 months old. Currently 230000kmTypical city mileage is 12.5l/100km. Short trips only gets you 14 or 15l/100. Country highway is about 10 or 11l/100. Mechanically no major issues. The intermediate steering column goes clunk on left turns. Can be repaired if you care. The front tyres wear quickly on the edges. The original alternator and water pump both died in the last 12 months. Find an independent mechanic to fix the water pump. Its about a 3 or 4 hour job, engine in. Toyota will charge 14 hours, engine out Paint chips on the front of the bonnet are common. Peeling clear coat on the roof is common. They go well in the sand and off road btw. Just the clearance lets them down. Interior quality is very good. Nice car. I'm keeping mine. They're the last of the low tech cars so not much to go wrong.
I have owned a 2007 kluger (2nd model) since new and it has been as reliable and confortable to drive as the day it was bought. It is a gas guzzler, it does have a little body roll when you turn, but it comes with good suspension and has no lag when you have 6 adults in the car. The description you have was 100% accurate.
Have a 2009 model, the rubber lines to the oil cooler were replaced as a recall, also power window switches were 'lubricated'. Mine's a FWD model & struggles with grip on some surfaces in the wet. The 'snow' button dumbs the throttle down making it easier to get moving. Used as a work vehicle, ladders, tools etc, just regular maintenance & replacement of consumables. Just over 200K km's.
Thanks for the great review! I just bought a 2011 Highlander! Its made in Japan and the option of removing the centre second row seat makes it so practical especially for families with kids! There is nothing fancy about this vehicle. I chose this vehicle mainly for Toyota reliability
We've got a 2010 upgrade with 260,000ks on it now. Had it for 7 years and taken it around Australia with a camper. The auto is the only part showing it's age mechanically. Although it can feather the gears a little it's fine to drive. We maintain it well and so far nothing has let us down. We've only had to change the centre console lid leather. Don't plan on trading it in anytime soon.
I had a 2020 Mercedes glc63 and had nothing but problems with it. I was done with euro cars. A few months ago I bought one of these 2013, grande. Absolutely love that it's reliable , practical and for an 11 year old car there isn't one squeek or noise from it. It's incredibly comfortable, a bit thirsty but still plenty of fun. I can't see me parting with it. To sum it up it's vanilla, it's safe, it's more than practical and it works.
I bought one. It feels heavy and ponderous, like a tank, but like a tank, it is hard to kill. Everything feels very solid and it just seems to work, like an appliance. Great review, thank you from the US.😊
I'm on my second Kluger. The worst thing about them is they won't bloody well die. I've had to replace the AC evaporator, and it was more than a day's work for my mechanic. They also scrub the front tyre corners so you need to rotate them to get a bit more life from tyres. My 5'0" wife can't see out of them because of the massive mirrors, but at a well cushioned 6'0" I love the big mirrors. She doesn't like to drive Freddy Kluger for that reason. With the AC on pretty much all the time I get 13-15 litres per 100km as per the test, but on the Pacific Highway to QLD (once or twice a year) we get as low as 8.9L/100km with a bike rack and full to the gills. My wife's less-used 06 Mazda has been nearly as reliable but has had some switches fail. Not a one on the Toyota Kluger. Tows well - yep Highway lounge room - yep 3x 12v outlets to power just about everything - yep Ridiculously practical with so many clever features - yep Reliable as a heavy stick - yep I'd love a fun hot hatch or a classic car but I'd miss all the practical features of my soccer mum car - and I too call it that. If I wait for my Kluger to die, I think I'll be the classic needing retirement. 270000km and not a sign of failure.
I sold my 2008 Highlander when the original factory alternator finally died at 428K Kms. It was a $600 to replace but I wanted to sell it because the AC Rubber hoses or whatever was keeping that ac cool during summer was deteriorating so I had to get it refilled every summer or every 4-5 months before it would stop cooling the cabin as well. Put an ad for 4K on a Wednesday - got sold next day for almost 7k and I had an offer for 8k. Toyota really made a solid car
2013 limited the back up camera was on a much better head unit. I have owned a 2013 Limited with almost every option since new. I went in a week before the 14s came out and walked away paying 85% the msrp. I only have 39k miles, mostly highway on the car and it has been my favorite vehicle. I have owned mustangs, z28s, Vettes, ect... Those were more fun, but my Highlander is a long distance cruising all weather brute. It is like a good fridge.
I had a 2011 Kluger KX-S for a couple of years, looked identical to this one. Absolutely loved it - I used to do a lot of long country commutes, including driving between Adelaide and Sydney a couple of times, and it was a superstar. Punchy V6, super spacious interior, great ride and road noise, and bulletproof reliability. 🤌🏼
Great, no-nonsense review. I've just ordered a 2022 Hybrid AWD GX Kluger, and really looking forward to the upgrade from my 2010 Manual Subaru Forester X. Will see how it goes towing a box trailer with camping kit, and 'minor' offroading to campsites like Booloumba Creek camping.
These Highlanders (as they were called in North America) had three engine options, a 2.7 inline four, the 3.5 V6, and a hybrid which essentially was the 3.3 V6 from the first gen with a battery pack and eCVT. Eventually toyota switched to the 3.5 for the hybrids. The 2.7 was great on fuel economy, but they were generally slow. The hybrid offer the best of both power and efficiency, but maintenance can be expensive because it has more parts than the others.
Our family had one of these in the exact same spec and colour, rock solid reliability and comfortable for us kids in the back. Thought it looked nice and aggressive for an SUV too. Dad said though it was no fun to drive and a Mustang followed not long after.
Agree 100% but I’m surprised nothing was mentioned about the importance of oil change intervals… I’ve seen a few of these Toyota V6s turn oil to grease if oil change are missed. And they tend to guzzle the gas. Otherwise they were high on my list before we bought a Rav4 Cruiser which has been brilliant
@@mrkring1526 The 2GR-FE does have a well known sludge problem too - but it’s due to the PCB system which results in sludge build up in the intake and around the valves Not as deadly as an entire crankcase of sludge blocking oil galleries and pick ups but it is a slow silent killer none the less
Me and my partner has got a 2006 Toyota kluger 7 seater 2.4L VVTi V6 4WD, I've chucked out the old Japanese double din headunit because it used too drive me crazy. Lol and put a nice pioneer with Bluetooth, USB, mp3, single Din, sounds so incredible.
Just watched this after finding your channel, I’ve got a 2012 KX-S with 160k that I’ve owned since new. Over the 11 years, the only unplanned maintenance has been 2 door lock actuators and I recently had to get the rear caliper seals replaced, so I had them rebuilt. I bought it to replace a falcon wagon, and I couldn’t stand the idea of a Territory always being at the dealer like the falcon was. The 10k service interval isn’t too bad. The two minor services still cost me about $280 at the dealer, the minor major service is about $600 and the major major service every 5 years was about $1400 including a gearbox service. The only complaint is that nothing goes wrong, so it’s impossible to justify replacement. That and fuel economy. A recent drive BNE to Sydney averaged 8.6l/100, but around the city is 14/15 every week.
I’ve got a 2019 Kluger and it’s been a rock solid car. So much room, it’s like a spaceship. Good ground clearance, decent get up and go with the V6 engine. It is a boring drive, but reliable, safe and pretty indestructible. I am considering downgrading to an earlier year model because I like the reliability and would be happy with a bit of extra cash and less frills.
Only issue I had has been the steering klunk, which was rectified by the dealer for $700. Otherwise it's solid as a rock. Last great Kluger made in Japan.
I’m thinking of selling my 2010 aurion. I’ve had it 8 years, got 230 k and never missed a beat! It could go around Australia tomorrow easy. And I love the 3.5 so much I’m looking at the kluger. Thanks for the info
My daughter brought a 2013 altitude in 2015, has three children and it gets a flogging including the inside and can't fault it. But and there is always one , 2022 she arrived home her so told her you have heaps of water under the car unfortunately it was oil. At bottom motor is a oil hose this over time percises and blows, it is known buy Toyota not as a recall but work on as they blow. The replacement is fully covered by Toyota, we found out as our normal mechanic advised us. other wise we would have cost my daughter a lot of money. Apart from this it's rock solid and made to last.
5:34 About the Head Unit, indicating to the reviewed 2010 model, back in the days Tech weren't that advanced like how it is today. Even till 2014 if they had the same head unit installed I wouldn't be surprised as Toyota for these specific Kluger/Highlander couldn't slap in more advanced head unit in a budget family Toyota SUV in that Era. (Even today some Toyota comes with head units that many peoples won't like but surely these things will change with the time) That was the era when smartphones and other tech were getting developed, the time when 6GB Ram smartphone got released was in 2016 and now in 2022 there are phones available with 18GB RAM or more even. The cost of these techs and stuff were not as cheap as today at all overall peoples were just happy with it's reliability, efficiency and what not, which is what Toyota specifically known for. (I am not comparing a phone with a head unit, the example can be linked with any tech that we are using today in any way possible) Obviously it's annoying to use such an unresponsive touch screen in today's modern world and it's unimaginable for many but back then I don't really know how people felt like for having such a head unit, since 2016 everything kept improving in the fastest pace ever and it's just getting faster and within less than 10 years, we are somewhere where most couldn't visualise to change certain things within 50 years even. But yes back to the topic, it is what it is and I'm 21 now, said everything from my experience as I saw these major changes slowly and with the pace, I might be wrong about any info so apology and correct me if I am. Thanks for the vid, really enjoyed watching it, very Informative and fun content. Your vids often popping up on my feeds which says a lot about your contents, keep up good work mate - subs.
I own a 09 kluger and apart from the odd not to expensive repair I’m very pleased It’s a three owner car the first owners were top army brass the second an average joe and myself also an average joe with a small family Bought it at high 12s with 155k on clock now it has almost 100k added and it’s still a top car to suit my needs
Just came across your channel as I’m looking at purchasing one of these. I found one with parking sensors and towbar. Had a couple things I wanted fixed before purchasing. Salesman said that they wont fix it so deal was off. Covid tax has however made them abit more expensive. Keep up the great work
@@rocknroth764 Its the tax the industry put on everyone during and even after Covid because 'supply chain issues - no cars available'. So they charge you 25% more for the cars than before Covid
Great review but these do have a commonly known issue of oil slugging up and smokey engines as a result of missed oil changes. They can also stretch timing chains at relatively low kms as a result. I’ve been told by several mechanics that replacing the timing chain on these it often done with the motor removed as it’s a nightmare to access otherwise
THis is a US made Toyota. That's probably the reason why the evaporator core in the dash leaks. I have had a few Made in Japan toyotas that was still like new after 10 years/150,000kms with just oil/filter/brake pads/tyre change And the number plate holder has Cessnock Mitsubishi label on it? I was a student in Newcastle Grammar School many years ago and Cessnock in the Hunter Valley sure brings back good memory
Great vid, thank you that was very helpful and you cant beat a Toyota. I’ve noticed that there is no review on nissan pathfinders yet, I can’t imagine it would stack up to the Toyota reliability or towing but an extremely tight budget has me considering one over a kluger as a second car for family camping trips.
Change out the radio for a Vehicle specific android radio from Teyes or Joying gives you apple car play and android auto and a better backup camera option. Teyes lets you add a 360 view camera to simplify tight space maneuvering.
Own a 2010 grande And being a full time dad ! Me and my daughter love it I got the front wheel drive version for fuel efficiency , I get 10.5 per 100k long as I drive well Amazing car
Mine is front wheels 2009 180k. Fuel consumption from Sydney to Brisbane highway drive was only 7.3L per 100km using 98 petrol and cruise control in the town drive between 14 to 15 normally I used 91 in town.
Great review. I own a 2013 and am quite happy with it. I have been advised once past 70k, beware of the vvti rear oil supply failing and losing all motor oil at once. The original is rubber and is known to fail. The replacement , which is metal, cost about $230 US part and labor . Also, look for a ticking sound coming from the engine as it indicates possible water pump failure
@@jackman2865 sorry for the delay, I believe the issue was resolved for the new model. I would double check with Toyota or your mechanic. Its a head scratcher as to why they did not issue a recall
@@thomasfolan2716 I just bought a Highlander 2013 with over 180k miles (it’s had every oil change) do u think that problem has already been fixed? And how can I go look and talk if it has. Where in my car do I see if it’s metal or rubber
@@beanteam2217 it’s possible Take a look at The Car Care Nut UA-cam channel. He shows how to remove the covers to view the part You can then see if it’s metal or rubber
@@beanteam2217 Hi Beanteam, check out Car Care Nut UA-cam channel. He"s a Toyota mechanic He shows how to take off the covers so that one can see if it is rubber or metal.
Recently been watching your videos a lot. Very informative. But I couldn’t find a video about 4runner. Can you do review about Toyota 4runner? Especially the ones come out from 2014 and later. Thanks
We have an 08 and I laugh going past X5s Q7s knowing that this thing will outlast them and do a better job. Every Christmas we will do a 12h commute between family’s and honestly nothing else could do that trip like the Kluger. We will update soon but have ticked over 300000km and everything just works. But yes horrible on the juice
Our 2007 Limited has 450k on her, and we replaced the alternator/drive belt and a wheel bearing once. That’s it. The only complaint I can even think of when it comes to this car is that it is boring. Not ugly, not slow, just.. a little boring. Is that even a complaint?
I own a 2011 kluger grande AWD. Owned it for about 2 yrs now. got it for 18000. Really great and smooth engine, not much has gone wrong and i LOVE that fast butter smooth 3.5 v6. Highway fuel is around 9-10 litres and city/town is around 13-14 litres. what i like about this car: RELIABLE AF, fast silky smooth engine, great sound system (in my opinion, however USA models come with JBL sound system), Very practical. What i dislike: the seat comfort, visiblity, transmission (whenever your parked on a hill and ya chuck it into reverse, you get a really loud bang from the tranny, i've had this issue for quite a while now so whenever i park on a hill i either park in the lane where i can go into drive, or dont park at all. This is usually caused by not changing the ATF fluid regularly), the tech in the grande is pretty average, compromised 3rd row room. Other than that, i REALLY REALLY LOVE THIS CAR. I also own an 03 kluger (which is hail damaged, ruined by my brother's harsh driving, and has just passed 300000km's, still running strong proven to be a reliable car. I LUV THESE DETAILED VIDS SO MUCH. kp up the work Adam and Jim👍👍😎.
They are a safe, easy to drive, comfortable car that offers everything a SUV can provide, however things need to be replaced at around 180k kilometres. I had to change the seals on my transfer case, the fromt shock absorbers and an alternator all between 170 and 180k kilometres. They are a pain to work on as everything is located in a shit position. The emgime is thirsty and it has a little body role. Having said that; it's probably one of the best carsninhave owned.
A guy I work with bought a 2004 highlander about 10 years ago after his rav4 got stolen out of the company parking lot. It has almost 400,000 kms and it’s the 2.7 fwd one. He is looking at a Mercedes glc or a Porsche macan to replace it.
@@ReDriven they probably would as he is obsessed with doing maintenance. Plus he already owns a Mercedes Benz slk 350 with 100,000 kms. The sad part is he bought it used from a guy who later killed a grandfather and his four grandchildren while under the influence. He had been partying in Vegas, came back on a flight to Toronto and partied all night and his friends allowed him to drive absolutely smashed drunk.
@@ReDriven yeah. You should have seen the mood my coworker was in after he learned who he bought the slk off of. I have never seen him that subdued and near tears.
@redriven you need to start mentioning in the description what watches your're wearing. You have a nice little little collection it seems. This one looks like a modded SKX?
Hi Ross. I had no idea there would be such fascination with my watches. Long story short, I was a Swiss and euro watch fan for many years however all that changed after a trip to Japan and meeting some very serious horologists. Since the trip I sold a few name brand watches and have gone a little silly on Seiko. Also, well done on picking this one. Yep it's a modded SKX. - AK
Hello, looking at a 2013 kxs AWD. $25k I like it but just not sure about the fuel consumption, especially with petrol prices at $2.20 atm. Just wondering if better to get something more expensive like a Pajero Sport but had 8L/100 so might kind of make up the price difference in fuel savings & slightly cheaper loan %?
You forgot to mention the "Snow Button"!!! For a soccer mum car it is pretty darn quick.. only complaint is the poor turning circle.. otherwise the most reliable car ever!
Most Underrated UA-cam Channel. These are cars that most of us enthusiast look at. Category "Used"
Oh mate thank you so much! Honestly, you've made our day.
They are just starting out. They will get more subs in future definitely.
@@Gioeufshi Hope so mate, thank you!
I usually don't comment. But I have to say you are a bloody good presenter mate. Always gives us the required information.
Hoping this channel grows a lot. Really enjoy the content.
Ah thanks so much mate, we hope the same!
I got a 2012 Toyota kluger grande,the thing is just fantastic, it’s a like having a very loyal dog, you know it’s always got your back and it should never break down
Just bought a 2011 Limited. Even for today still looks sharp and modern. Very reliable countrable . love it.
How much miles is your highlander?
@@zakalsaedi2012 bougth it with 120k
There is nothing boring about the security you feel knowing you're going to get from point A to point B without being stranded on the side of the road. 2009 Toyota highlander limited, 123,000 miles, absolutely zero issues in six years of driving.
I've a 2009 Highlander Limited, purchased new and 14 years later I still love it. I was 58 and joked when I brought it home that, given Toyota quality, this might be my last new car and that is proving to be true. With only 97K miles I suspect it will lumber on after I have departed the scene. My only caveat is beware of some after market parts- time came to rebuild the front end and my mechanic used after market spindles causing a great deal of grief. A retired Toyota rep finally ID'd the problem, my mech made the necessary changes and Voila- she runs great and having always been garaged she still gleams when polished. Best money I ever spent on any vehicle.
What does "rebuild the front end" mean/entail?
Nice review. I've had an Australian 2008 7 seater AWD kxr since it was 6 months old. Currently 230000kmTypical city mileage is 12.5l/100km. Short trips only gets you 14 or 15l/100. Country highway is about 10 or 11l/100.
Mechanically no major issues. The intermediate steering column goes clunk on left turns. Can be repaired if you care. The front tyres wear quickly on the edges. The original alternator and water pump both died in the last 12 months. Find an independent mechanic to fix the water pump. Its about a 3 or 4 hour job, engine in. Toyota will charge 14 hours, engine out Paint chips on the front of the bonnet are common. Peeling clear coat on the roof is common.
They go well in the sand and off road btw. Just the clearance lets them down. Interior quality is very good. Nice car. I'm keeping mine. They're the last of the low tech cars so not much to go wrong.
I’ve had this model for 7 yrs and it does Toyota proud, got no reason to trade it in, your review was spot on well done!!
Still got it
@@UghrKahn still got it!!!
It's not a boring car. It's a beast of a car. It's way more fun of a drive than my Lexus RX. I own both.
I’ve got a 2005 model, over 300k on the clock. V6 still going strong 💪🏼
Bulletproof car
I have owned a 2007 kluger (2nd model) since new and it has been as reliable and confortable to drive as the day it was bought. It is a gas guzzler, it does have a little body roll when you turn, but it comes with good suspension and has no lag when you have 6 adults in the car. The description you have was 100% accurate.
Have a 2009 model, the rubber lines to the oil cooler were replaced as a recall, also power window switches were 'lubricated'.
Mine's a FWD model & struggles with grip on some surfaces in the wet. The 'snow' button dumbs the throttle down making it
easier to get moving. Used as a work vehicle, ladders, tools etc, just regular maintenance & replacement of consumables.
Just over 200K km's.
Test drove one today. I was very impressed. I was already going to buy it but this definitely solidified that decision
Thanks for the great review! I just bought a 2011 Highlander! Its made in Japan and the option of removing the centre second row seat makes it so practical especially for families with kids! There is nothing fancy about this vehicle. I chose this vehicle mainly for Toyota reliability
We've got a 2010 upgrade with 260,000ks on it now. Had it for 7 years and taken it around Australia with a camper. The auto is the only part showing it's age mechanically. Although it can feather the gears a little it's fine to drive. We maintain it well and so far nothing has let us down. We've only had to change the centre console lid leather. Don't plan on trading it in anytime soon.
Centre console lid. $30 on eBay.
@@peterdawson8180thanks mate 👍
love how strong the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot are
I had a 2020 Mercedes glc63 and had nothing but problems with it. I was done with euro cars. A few months ago I bought one of these 2013, grande. Absolutely love that it's reliable , practical and for an 11 year old car there isn't one squeek or noise from it. It's incredibly comfortable, a bit thirsty but still plenty of fun. I can't see me parting with it. To sum it up it's vanilla, it's safe, it's more than practical and it works.
Mercedes=Expensive CRAP
@@cjsteele9594 yes I found out the hardway 😂 thankfully it was under warranty but the stress alone was the true cost.
I bought one. It feels heavy and ponderous, like a tank, but like a tank, it is hard to kill. Everything feels very solid and it just seems to work, like an appliance. Great review, thank you from the US.😊
I'm on my second Kluger.
The worst thing about them is they won't bloody well die.
I've had to replace the AC evaporator, and it was more than a day's work for my mechanic.
They also scrub the front tyre corners so you need to rotate them to get a bit more life from tyres.
My 5'0" wife can't see out of them because of the massive mirrors, but at a well cushioned 6'0" I love the big mirrors. She doesn't like to drive Freddy Kluger for that reason.
With the AC on pretty much all the time I get 13-15 litres per 100km as per the test, but on the Pacific Highway to QLD (once or twice a year) we get as low as 8.9L/100km with a bike rack and full to the gills.
My wife's less-used 06 Mazda has been nearly as reliable but has had some switches fail. Not a one on the Toyota Kluger.
Tows well - yep
Highway lounge room - yep
3x 12v outlets to power just about everything - yep
Ridiculously practical with so many clever features - yep
Reliable as a heavy stick - yep
I'd love a fun hot hatch or a classic car but I'd miss all the practical features of my soccer mum car - and I too call it that.
If I wait for my Kluger to die, I think I'll be the classic needing retirement.
270000km and not a sign of failure.
I sold my 2008 Highlander when the original factory alternator finally died at 428K Kms. It was a $600 to replace but I wanted to sell it because the AC Rubber hoses or whatever was keeping that ac cool during summer was deteriorating so I had to get it refilled every summer or every 4-5 months before it would stop cooling the cabin as well. Put an ad for 4K on a Wednesday - got sold next day for almost 7k and I had an offer for 8k.
Toyota really made a solid car
Just bought one. Pretty much everything I said about it. Great car! Boring but excellent at doing what it’s supposed to do really well!
2013 limited the back up camera was on a much better head unit.
I have owned a 2013 Limited with almost every option since new. I went in a week before the 14s came out and walked away paying 85% the msrp. I only have 39k miles, mostly highway on the car and it has been my favorite vehicle. I have owned mustangs, z28s, Vettes, ect...
Those were more fun, but my Highlander is a long distance cruising all weather brute.
It is like a good fridge.
I had a 2011 Kluger KX-S for a couple of years, looked identical to this one. Absolutely loved it - I used to do a lot of long country commutes, including driving between Adelaide and Sydney a couple of times, and it was a superstar. Punchy V6, super spacious interior, great ride and road noise, and bulletproof reliability. 🤌🏼
I have 2012 second hand one
Love it
Does the job nothing fancy
Great, no-nonsense review. I've just ordered a 2022 Hybrid AWD GX Kluger, and really looking forward to the upgrade from my 2010 Manual Subaru Forester X. Will see how it goes towing a box trailer with camping kit, and 'minor' offroading to campsites like Booloumba Creek camping.
These Highlanders (as they were called in North America) had three engine options, a 2.7 inline four, the 3.5 V6, and a hybrid which essentially was the 3.3 V6 from the first gen with a battery pack and eCVT. Eventually toyota switched to the 3.5 for the hybrids. The 2.7 was great on fuel economy, but they were generally slow. The hybrid offer the best of both power and efficiency, but maintenance can be expensive because it has more parts than the others.
It has a nice charm to it. I have a 2008 one. Perfect road trip car super comfortable super spacious i love it
I have a 2013 with 204k. Regular oil changes and tire rotations. That’s all. I do want a new stereo though!
That's amazing! Give me hope with my new (to me) high mileage 2013 (111K).
You can buy new Android head units that will bring your Kluger into the current age.
Got a 2021 XSE highlander last year… LOVE IT!
Our family had one of these in the exact same spec and colour, rock solid reliability and comfortable for us kids in the back. Thought it looked nice and aggressive for an SUV too. Dad said though it was no fun to drive and a Mustang followed not long after.
Love this! - AK
Love the great reviews for practical cars people actually buy.
This is indeed one of the most underrated channels.....
Aww cheers!
I have a toyota kluger gronde 2012 in india punjab it still going strong it still has 127,300 miles
These reviews are always great, hopefully we can upgrade soon
Agree 100% but I’m surprised nothing was mentioned about the importance of oil change intervals… I’ve seen a few of these Toyota V6s turn oil to grease if oil change are missed.
And they tend to guzzle the gas.
Otherwise they were high on my list before we bought a Rav4 Cruiser which has been brilliant
Everyone that says this probably heard about this happen on on the old 3.3 V6 3MZ-FE. Its very rare on 2GR-FE
@@mrkring1526 The 2GR-FE does have a well known sludge problem too - but it’s due to the PCB system which results in sludge build up in the intake and around the valves
Not as deadly as an entire crankcase of sludge blocking oil galleries and pick ups but it is a slow silent killer none the less
Me and my partner has got a 2006 Toyota kluger 7 seater 2.4L VVTi V6 4WD, I've chucked out the old Japanese double din headunit because it used too drive me crazy. Lol and put a nice pioneer with Bluetooth, USB, mp3, single Din, sounds so incredible.
Love this! - AK
Just watched this after finding your channel, I’ve got a 2012 KX-S with 160k that I’ve owned since new. Over the 11 years, the only unplanned maintenance has been 2 door lock actuators and I recently had to get the rear caliper seals replaced, so I had them rebuilt. I bought it to replace a falcon wagon, and I couldn’t stand the idea of a Territory always being at the dealer like the falcon was.
The 10k service interval isn’t too bad. The two minor services still cost me about $280 at the dealer, the minor major service is about $600 and the major major service every 5 years was about $1400 including a gearbox service.
The only complaint is that nothing goes wrong, so it’s impossible to justify replacement. That and fuel economy. A recent drive BNE to Sydney averaged 8.6l/100, but around the city is 14/15 every week.
The steering column can develop a clunking noise and feel. Not overly expensive to replace
Fantastic video…STILL. Just bought one
I’ve got a 2019 Kluger and it’s been a rock solid car. So much room, it’s like a spaceship. Good ground clearance, decent get up and go with the V6 engine. It is a boring drive, but reliable, safe and pretty indestructible. I am considering downgrading to an earlier year model because I like the reliability and would be happy with a bit of extra cash and less frills.
Owned 2014 kluger glx Awd until now. No issues at all, just serviced according to the logs book. The 3.5l is abit thirsty.
Only issue I had has been the steering klunk, which was rectified by the dealer for $700. Otherwise it's solid as a rock. Last great Kluger made in Japan.
@Brian Ortega I asked dealer this. Grease was not the permanent fix. If Japanese engineers recommend a replacement, I would trust that judgement
We don’t have these in the UK but what a nice used car? I’d happily buy one
I’m thinking of selling my 2010 aurion. I’ve had it 8 years, got 230 k and never missed a beat! It could go around Australia tomorrow easy. And I love the 3.5 so much I’m looking at the kluger. Thanks for the info
Thanks so much for watching! - AK
My daughter brought a 2013 altitude in 2015, has three children and it gets a flogging including the inside and can't fault it. But and there is always one , 2022 she arrived home her so told her you have heaps of water under the car unfortunately it was oil. At bottom motor is a oil hose this over time percises and blows, it is known buy Toyota not as a recall but work on as they blow.
The replacement is fully covered by Toyota, we found out as our normal mechanic advised us. other wise we would have cost my daughter a lot of money. Apart from this it's rock solid and made to last.
5:34
About the Head Unit, indicating to the reviewed 2010 model, back in the days Tech weren't that advanced like how it is today. Even till 2014 if they had the same head unit installed I wouldn't be surprised as Toyota for these specific Kluger/Highlander couldn't slap in more advanced head unit in a budget family Toyota SUV in that Era.
(Even today some Toyota comes with head units that many peoples won't like but surely these things will change with the time)
That was the era when smartphones and other tech were getting developed, the time when 6GB Ram smartphone got released was in 2016 and now in 2022 there are phones available with 18GB RAM or more even. The cost of these techs and stuff were not as cheap as today at all overall peoples were just happy with it's reliability, efficiency and what not, which is what Toyota specifically known for.
(I am not comparing a phone with a head unit, the example can be linked with any tech that we are using today in any way possible)
Obviously it's annoying to use such an unresponsive touch screen in today's modern world and it's unimaginable for many but back then I don't really know how people felt like for having such a head unit, since 2016 everything kept improving in the fastest pace ever and it's just getting faster and within less than 10 years, we are somewhere where most couldn't visualise to change certain things within 50 years even.
But yes back to the topic, it is what it is and I'm 21 now, said everything from my experience as I saw these major changes slowly and with the pace, I might be wrong about any info so apology and correct me if I am.
Thanks for the vid, really enjoyed watching it, very Informative and fun content. Your vids often popping up on my feeds which says a lot about your contents, keep up good work mate - subs.
I own a 09 kluger and apart from the odd not to expensive repair I’m very pleased
It’s a three owner car the first owners were top army brass the second an average joe and myself also an average joe with a small family
Bought it at high 12s with 155k on clock now it has almost 100k added and it’s still a top car to suit my needs
Just came across your channel as I’m looking at purchasing one of these. I found one with parking sensors and towbar. Had a couple things I wanted fixed before purchasing. Salesman said that they wont fix it so deal was off.
Covid tax has however made them abit more expensive.
Keep up the great work
Thanks so much Ken! - AK
Rhetorical question: wth is a "Covid tax" on cars.
@@rocknroth764 Its the tax the industry put on everyone during and even after Covid because 'supply chain issues - no cars available'. So they charge you 25% more for the cars than before Covid
Great review but these do have a commonly known issue of oil slugging up and smokey engines as a result of missed oil changes. They can also stretch timing chains at relatively low kms as a result.
I’ve been told by several mechanics that replacing the timing chain on these it often done with the motor removed as it’s a nightmare to access otherwise
Yeah the old 3.3 V6 not the newer 2GRFE
just got a 2011 Kluger KX-S, your video gave me a piece of mind
THis is a US made Toyota. That's probably the reason why the evaporator core in the dash leaks. I have had a few Made in Japan toyotas that was still like new after 10 years/150,000kms with just oil/filter/brake pads/tyre change
And the number plate holder has Cessnock Mitsubishi label on it? I was a student in Newcastle Grammar School many years ago and Cessnock in the Hunter Valley sure brings back good memory
Great, concise car review....love this channel. Must share with friends.
Great vid, thank you that was very helpful and you cant beat a Toyota.
I’ve noticed that there is no review on nissan pathfinders yet, I can’t imagine it would stack up to the Toyota reliability or towing but an extremely tight budget has me considering one over a kluger as a second car for family camping trips.
Change out the radio for a Vehicle specific android radio from Teyes or Joying gives you apple car play and android auto and a better backup camera option. Teyes lets you add a 360 view camera to simplify tight space maneuvering.
Do you have to run new cables for a better reverse camera, or can you use the existing cables?
Are you going to review the next series? Looking forward to that one.
100%. We have a few cars to do before we repeat a model but we'll get there. - AK
I'm really loving this channel
Tanks so much! - AK
Higher models have a nice full backup camera and large screen gps with 3 disc changer where the large screen swings open
Own a 2010 grande
And being a full time dad ! Me and my daughter love it
I got the front wheel drive version for fuel efficiency , I get 10.5 per 100k long as I drive well
Amazing car
Awesome to hear Sam. - AK
I seriously doubt many owners even know that middle seat is removable let alone about that secret cubby.
My mum uses that V6 to its full potential, just like most other mothers, shy drives this like a top heavy go kart
Hahahaha brilliant! - AK
My camry 2010 gives the same mileage per 100 km. I am now thinking about buying kluger to replace my camry to accommodate growing family
This Convinced me to take a Highlander 2010 and above. Thank You!
Awesome to hear! - AK
Ive read mixed comments on fuel consumption. Is it really that bad on rhe AWD model?
Mine is front wheels 2009 180k. Fuel consumption from Sydney to Brisbane highway drive was only 7.3L per 100km using 98 petrol and cruise control in the town drive between 14 to 15 normally I used 91 in town.
I was about to get a forester but idk now i might be getting a highlander. Sounds more reliable.
I'm confused. Which Highlander model has a 9 inch screen in the back? Google isn't pulling anything up. 6:08
Grande
300k on mine, still drives like new, chews threw the fuel, but dependable that's for sure
Wouldn't take one up a mountain but I've seen one outperform several other legit 4WDs on sand dunes.
Love the videos!
Thanks mate!!!
Great review. I own a 2013 and am quite happy with it. I have been advised once past 70k, beware of the vvti rear oil supply failing and losing all motor oil at once. The original is rubber and is known to fail. The replacement , which is metal, cost about $230 US part and labor . Also, look for a ticking sound coming from the engine as it indicates possible water pump failure
What about the 2014 new facelift model is it metal already? Thanks
@@jackman2865 sorry for the delay, I believe the issue was resolved for the new model. I would double check with Toyota or your mechanic. Its a head scratcher as to why they did not issue a recall
@@thomasfolan2716 I just bought a Highlander 2013 with over 180k miles (it’s had every oil change) do u think that problem has already been fixed? And how can I go look and talk if it has. Where in my car do I see if it’s metal or rubber
@@beanteam2217 it’s possible Take a look at The Car Care Nut UA-cam channel. He shows how to remove the covers to view the part You can then see if it’s metal or rubber
@@beanteam2217 Hi Beanteam, check out Car Care Nut UA-cam channel. He"s a Toyota mechanic He shows how to take off the covers so that one can see if it is rubber or metal.
Recently been watching your videos a lot. Very informative. But I couldn’t find a video about 4runner. Can you do review about Toyota 4runner? Especially the ones come out from 2014 and later. Thanks
We have an 08 and I laugh going past X5s Q7s knowing that this thing will outlast them and do a better job. Every Christmas we will do a 12h commute between family’s and honestly nothing else could do that trip like the Kluger. We will update soon but have ticked over 300000km and everything just works. But yes horrible on the juice
I seen a 2008 kluger for sale where I'am in QLD for $9500 and it has 357,000kilometers on it. is that too many ks for one of these
Our 2007 Limited has 450k on her, and we replaced the alternator/drive belt and a wheel bearing once. That’s it. The only complaint I can even think of when it comes to this car is that it is boring. Not ugly, not slow, just.. a little boring. Is that even a complaint?
The jingle you use, getting some Seinfeld energy from it haha
100% Neel. It our homage to Seinfeld. We're huge fans and love the little bass stabs so we "borrowed" the idea! - AK
Love the channel so far. Just subbed!
Ah cheers mate!
Thanks for the review has really made me comfortable with buying one. Im not very car savvy 😄🤦🏾♂️
Great stuff mate 👏
Cheers mate!
We have a 2011 Grande . After 140,000 km its still a good car.
How Good or Bad is The Fuel consumption, Is it 15 or 20 Per Litre, Thank you.
I own a 2011 kluger grande AWD. Owned it for about 2 yrs now. got it for 18000. Really great and smooth engine, not much has gone wrong and i LOVE that fast butter smooth 3.5 v6. Highway fuel is around 9-10 litres and city/town is around 13-14 litres. what i like about this car: RELIABLE AF, fast silky smooth engine, great sound system (in my opinion, however USA models come with JBL sound system), Very practical. What i dislike: the seat comfort, visiblity, transmission (whenever your parked on a hill and ya chuck it into reverse, you get a really loud bang from the tranny, i've had this issue for quite a while now so whenever i park on a hill i either park in the lane where i can go into drive, or dont park at all. This is usually caused by not changing the ATF fluid regularly), the tech in the grande is pretty average, compromised 3rd row room. Other than that, i REALLY REALLY LOVE THIS CAR. I also own an 03 kluger (which is hail damaged, ruined by my brother's harsh driving, and has just passed 300000km's, still running strong proven to be a reliable car. I LUV THESE DETAILED VIDS SO MUCH. kp up the work Adam and Jim👍👍😎.
They are a safe, easy to drive, comfortable car that offers everything a SUV can provide, however things need to be replaced at around 180k kilometres. I had to change the seals on my transfer case, the fromt shock absorbers and an alternator all between 170 and 180k kilometres. They are a pain to work on as everything is located in a shit position. The emgime is thirsty and it has a little body role. Having said that; it's probably one of the best carsninhave owned.
Mine is 320000 and still works nicely 2009 ksx
"...and (I said) HEY!" 🎶
Instasubscribed when you slammed that infotainment system. Hilarious
Cheers mate! - AK
I have a front wheel drive and tourqe steer is horrible but I do get about 9.2 ltr per 100 most of the time and sometimes 8.2 .
Are we able to see the passenger side of this kluger
Dennis, shhhhhhhh
As coming from a 2013 highlander in the US that radio has never seen the light of day here. I guess the us marketing team said he|| no to that radio.
How does it compare with Lexus RX350 2009-2011? Assuming that the 3rd row seat is not needed. Same 3.5L engine.
A guy I work with bought a 2004 highlander about 10 years ago after his rav4 got stolen out of the company parking lot. It has almost 400,000 kms and it’s the 2.7 fwd one. He is looking at a Mercedes glc or a Porsche macan to replace it.
Both great as long he doesn't expect either of those options to see anything close to 400,000kms.
@@ReDriven they probably would as he is obsessed with doing maintenance. Plus he already owns a Mercedes Benz slk 350 with 100,000 kms. The sad part is he bought it used from a guy who later killed a grandfather and his four grandchildren while under the influence. He had been partying in Vegas, came back on a flight to Toronto and partied all night and his friends allowed him to drive absolutely smashed drunk.
@@kevinW826 Oh my god mate!!!!!
@@ReDriven yeah. You should have seen the mood my coworker was in after he learned who he bought the slk off of. I have never seen him that subdued and near tears.
@@kevinW826 It's crazy man!
@redriven you need to start mentioning in the description what watches your're wearing. You have a nice little little collection it seems. This one looks like a modded SKX?
Hi Ross. I had no idea there would be such fascination with my watches.
Long story short, I was a Swiss and euro watch fan for many years however all that changed after a trip to Japan and meeting some very serious horologists. Since the trip I sold a few name brand watches and have gone a little silly on Seiko.
Also, well done on picking this one. Yep it's a modded SKX. - AK
@Master Yoshi like AK, I too have gone a little silly on Seiko watches.
we had a 2012 model and it’s the best car my mum ever had and yet she sold it and got a mazda which isn’t the worst thing lol
Hello, looking at a 2013 kxs AWD. $25k I like it but just not sure about the fuel consumption, especially with petrol prices at $2.20 atm. Just wondering if better to get something more expensive like a Pajero Sport but had 8L/100 so might kind of make up the price difference in fuel savings & slightly cheaper loan %?
Awesome mate
What do you reckon if I buy 350000 kilos but the model is 2018 Kluger. Is it still worth to buy? Even with the high mileage?
7:25 Hahaha, I wonder how many owners don't even know this feature of the car XD
tip -a 2nd hand the year model equivalent Lexus RX350 pretty much the same price as a AWD mid spec Kluger .
And what a brilliant thing they are. - AK
Great channel
Are there any cooled seats
Not in this generation mate
You forgot to mention the "Snow Button"!!! For a soccer mum car it is pretty darn quick.. only complaint is the poor turning circle.. otherwise the most reliable car ever!
What is the snow button?