Toyota’s new Kluger SUV, due to arrive in Australia in June, is the eighth model in the company’s range to feature a hybrid drivetrain.

The new model, priced from $47,650, will also offer improved safety and technology, and will be available in three trim levels – entry-level GX, mid-range GXL and top-of-the-range Grande – with all grades offered in petrol 2WD or AWD versions, and hybrid AWD drivetrains.

Built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, it features a 60mm longer wheelbase, 60mm more in overall length and is slightly wider than the current generation.

The new hybrid system combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with two front and one rear-mounted motor generators that deliver a combined maximum output of 184kW. Combined cycle fuel consumption is 5.6l/100km.

Driving through an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), the AWD system allows up to 100 per cent of drive to be sent through the front wheels or up to 80 per cent through the rear.

The transmission offers three modes – ECO, NORMAL and SPORT – while hybrid models are also fitted with a Trail mode switch for better traction in slippery off-road conditions.

The 3.5-litre petrol V6 engine generates a maximum power of 218kW and peak torque of 350Nm that is delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission.

GX and GXL petrol versions use a new Dynamic Torque Control AWD system that allows the rear driveline to be ‘disconnected’ when AWD is not necessary with the front/rear drive torque split between 100:0 and 50:50, depending on conditions.

The Kluger Grande AWD petrol model features a more advanced Torque Vectoring AWD system that not only splits drive torque as needed front to rear – from 100:0 to 50:50 – but adds a pair of couplings on the rear axle to enable independent torque control of the rear left and right wheels.

All AWD petrol models also feature a multi-terrain select system with Rock & Dirt and Mud & Sand modes that automatically adjusts throttle, transmission, steering and brake control to provide the maximum traction and stability in all conditions.

There’s a new multilink front and rear suspension system and braking comes courtesy of 340mm front and 338mm rear ventilated disc brakes.

Safety features are comprehensive with new features for Toyota Safety Sense including Road Sign Assist, Emergency Steering Assist and Intersection Turn Assistance on every model. Standard safety features include, amongst others, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear-Cross Traffic Alert, Reversing Camera, and Front and Rear Parking Sensors.

Infotainment is delivered via the a multimedia system with controls via the steering wheel or large 8-inch touchscreen display atop the centre console. The system incorporates Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Standard equipment includes smart entry and start, manual dual-zone air conditioning, rain sensing wipers, and five USB ports. GXL models gain power-heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, power tailgate and satellite navigation. The Kluger Grande adds a panoramic roof, hands-free opening for the power tailgate, head-up display, a panoramic view monitor, and an 11-speaker JBL audio system.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (May 2021) 

13 May 2021