Toyota Kluger Problems

There can be no doubt that Ford had an enormous impact on the SUV scene when it launched the Territory, so much so that other carmakers, such as Toyota, simply had to respond. One of the features of the Territory that drove sales was the option of two-wheel drive. Once dismissed as a silly idea the success of the two-paw Ford made others sit up and take notice.As a result the new Toyota Kluger unveiled in 2007 came with the choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The reality of the market was that the SUV was being used as a replacement for the old station wagon, and all-wheel drive simply came as part of the package rather than a priority.The arrival of the front-wheel drive Kluger was hailed as the birth of a whole new car, at least by Toyota, who seemed to be claiming the idea as their own rather than a rip-off of Ford's.MODEL WATCHThe new Kluger was larger than the previous model, with a larger cabin, which matched or bettered the Territory in some dimensions. It also boasted more luggage space than the old model as well as a bigger third-row seat package.A larger, 3.5-litre V6 provided the power to the tune of 201kW and 337Nm, up 29 kW and 9 Nm. It was hooked up to a five-speed automatic transmission; with final drive through either the front wheels or all four in the case of all-wheel drive models.The range kicked off with the KX-R and moved up through the KX-S to the Grande. At the lower end of the range the KX-R came standard with air-conditioning, alloy wheels, a reversing camera, electronic stability control, ABS brakes and seven airbags.IN THE SHOPThe Kluger boasts the same quality of engineering and production as all Toyotas do, and despite some recent glitches, it stands up well in all ways. Make the usual checks to confirm routine servicing, which is the key to a long trouble free life on the road. Also check for offroad use, not that many Klugers go beyond the blacktop, but it's worth the check anyway.IN A CRASHANCAP awarded the Kluger five stars in recognition of its comprehensive array of safety gear, which included electronic stability control and ABS brakes, and front, head and side airbags.UNDER THE PUMPToyota claimed the front-wheel drive model would average 11.0L/100km, while the all-wheel drive model would return 11.6L/100km. When tested by CarsGuide the all-wheel drive Grande consumed 12.4L/100km.AT A GLANCEPrice new: $39,990 to $59,990Engine: 3.5-litre V6 petrol, 201 kW/337 NmTransmission: 5-speed automatic, front or all-wheel driveEconomy: 11.0 L/100 km (FWD), 11.6 L/100 km (AWD)Body: 5-door wagonVariants: KX-R base model, KX-S, Grande Safety: 5-star ANCAPVERDICTHigh ride and handsome, the Kluger is rightly a firm family favourite.

SUVs like the Toyota Kluger have replaced the station wagon as the   favourite transport for many families. Their appeal lies in their flexibility, size and perceived safety. Toyota has been one of the innovators in the SUV market with a number of models to suit all sizes and budgets.The Kluger is the mid-sized model aimed fairly and squarely as the average family. The Kluger was a close relative of the Camry and that's a pretty good way to look at it. Like the Camry it was conservatively styled, but does everything pretty well without being too outstanding in anything.Typically Toyota really. It carried up to seven and still had a bit of space for those things families seem to need to take with them when they hit the road. It had a capable all-wheel drive system, which was able to cope with most rough roads the average family adventurer would encounter. On the upper models there was an array of electronic helpers to keep you out of trouble in the rough stuff. Power came from a smooth 3.3-litre double overhead camshaft V6 with plenty of punch, and all models had a five-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.While it felt safe and sound it was a little vague on the road and felt disconnected from the driver. Off road the suspension soaked up the bumps with ease, and it was capable on bush tracks that upset other similar cars.Three models made up the Kluger range. The base CV had cloth trim and carpets, the CVX had leather, a sports steering wheel, powered driver's seat, and alloy wheels, while the Grande also had wood grain highlights.IN THE SHOPThere are no serious flaws in the Kluger; any problem will be unique to the individual car. It's important to check for signs of offroad use. Few will have been taken down anything more challenging than a gravel road, but it's best to be safe and check underneath.Look for sand blasting of the underbody, bent or dented brackets and fittings, and torn rubber boots and seals. Check for a service record to confirm the oil and filter have been changed regularly. The Kluger engine has a cam-timing belt that needs changing at around 150,000 km.IN A CRASHThe CV has dual front airbags, but the CVX and Grande had an array of   front and side airbags, plus traction control and stability control. It was enough to win a 4-star stamp from ANCAP. AT THE PUMP Toyota claimed the Kluger would average 12.3 L/100 km. The   recommended fuel was 91-octane regular unleaded, and E10 blend was approved.Toyota Kluger - 2003-2007Price new: $43,990 to $58,990Engine: 3.3-litre V6; 172 kW/328 NmTransmission: 5-speed auto, AWDEconomy: 12.3 L/100 kmBody: 5-door wagonVariants: CV, CVX, GrandeSafety: 4-star ANCAPVERDICTTypically bland Toyota looks hide competent, well-built family wagon.