Toyota Kluger Reviews

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.

The car of the future is surprisingly normal. It still looks like a car - in this case, a Toyota Kluger - and it still has all the normal stuff you expect to find in a car, from the steering wheel to the aircon and sound system.But you don't have to dig too deeply to discover that the Toyota FCHV - advanced is very un-normal. For a start, the only thing that comes out the exhaust pipe is water. And you fill it up with hydrogen, not petrol. That's because the FCHV is a fuel cell car that makes onboard electricity that is used to turn an electric motor that spins the wheels. It also has a battery to store energy from the fuel cell 'stack'.It sounds simple and it is. Honda has had a similar future car on the road for more than 18 months, although only a handful are actually running in Japan and the USA in what amounts to a real-world labratory experiment. The FCHV is also a lab rat and, just like the Honda Clarity - which Carsguide first drove when it was still called the FCX fuel cell concept and there were only two cars - it is doing most of its work on the roads of Los Angeles, conveniently close to Toyota's advanced US research base.Carsguide has arrived for a quick preview drive, actually a refresher after an early tease two years ago, and to learn how things are going with the long-term plan to electrify motoring. "We're two years closer," jokes fuel cell development boss Craig Scott as we sit in what looks like a regulation Shell service station in the suburb of Torrance. Except there is no cash register, no sign of Red Bull or Tim Tams, and the only fuel coming out of the pumps is hydrogen.VALUEThe HFCV is a prototype and that means it would probably cost around $2 million to build a copy. But costs are coming down fast and Scott says the price of the fuel cell 'stack' - a combination of 400 individual cells that looks a little like a battery - is now one-hundredth of the price when development began."The target is $50,000 for a production vehicle," says Scott. Best of all, he is crunching running costs as the Fuel Cell Hydrogen Vehicle is refueled. "There are two ways of calculating the numbers, with tanked hydrogen or hydrogen from a pipeline. Right now this is the only piped station in the USA," Scott says. "If you look at the energy in the tanks compared to gasoline, we're getting about 5.4 litres/100km and that's about double the fuel economy of the petrol model. And the price of hydrogen is about one- fifth the cost of gasoline."So that means the HFCV is currently 10 times cheaper to run than a V6- powered Toyota Kluger. But that's before governments get involved with the inevitable energy taxes ... And there is another problem in using hydrogen for transport. "You cannot sell hydrogen legally for vehicle at the moment because there is no measurement, although we talk in terms of kilograms of fuel," says Scott.TECHNOLOGYAt its simplest, the FCHV is a Kluger with the running gear from a Prius and a fuel cell stack replacing the petrol engine. But that's a very simplistic way of looking at a car that's at the cutting edge of hydrogen power. The computer control systems are massively expensive and even the fuel tanks - designed to carry hydrogen at 10,000 pounds-per-square-inch of pressure, are aluminium wrapped around a complex plastic base. The FCHV has also been beefed-up to support the fuel tanks that sit below the floor and the technology is always changing as improvements come online. "Fuel cell stacks used to cost $2-3000 per kiloWatt hour. We need to get that down closer to $100 to make hydrogen power workable," says Scott.DESIGNThere is nothing remotely special about the FCHV. Even the giant graphics splashed down the side look as if they were done by an engineer, not a designer. But the Kluger does the job and that's the most important thing about its design. It has plenty of space for hydrogen tanks and there are no visible changes to either the external or internal design of the original Kluger. It would be good to see something more George Jetson, like the original Honda FCX, but that's not the Toyota way. Boring but effective works.SAFETYToyota has deliberately expanded its FCHV fleet in the past year to get more real-world experience - including crashes. And, no surprise, its evaluation drivers in New York have delivered."We've had three accidents this year, including two rear-enders. Everyone has walked away," says Scott. "That's great and we actually wanted to see how the car would perform. There are no hidden bugs." Of course, he's talking about the hydrogen tanks, which are the biggest worry. Otherwise, the Kluger is much as it originally came from the factory and the original is a five-star ANCAP car since 2008.DRIVINGAfter driving a bunch of electric cars over the past five years, there is nothing surprising in the FCHV. You turn the key and nothing happens, at least that you can see or hear, beyond a few dashboard lights. But, like the Prius, once it's lit you can push and go on the accelerator pedal. The FCHV feels more ponderous than a regular Kluger, which is not exactly the most nimble car, thanks mostly to the bulk of the tanks.It also rides lower in the rear, which could be the tanks or the members of the video crew who have joined Carsguide for the day. But heading into the Torrance traffic it gets along well, seems quiet and cushy, and the aircon works fine enough. It's no fireball, and there is no chance to push through corners or try and panic stop, but it is still a lab rat on a relatively short lead.It definitely provides a window with a clear view to the potential future of motoring, and that picture is fairly crisp, colourful and exciting. Now all we need is somewhere beyond a BOC Gases base to get the hydrogen in Australia.VERDICTThe FCHV is not for everyone, but for anyone who wants to taste the future it has a recipe that beats a Masterchef contestant. It's not the nicest drive, but that's no different to a petrol-powered Kluger. What it shows is that the world's biggest carmaker is committed to an electric car future, and one that stretches well beyond the Prius.TOYOTA FCHVPrice: Not for saleWarranty: NoneResale: Not for resaleService interval: OftenSafety: Claimed 5-star ANCAPEngine: fuel cell stack, 90kW; permanent magnet electric motor, 90kW/ 260NmBody: Five-door wagonWeight: 1880kgTransmission: Front-wheel driveFuel: high-pressure hydrogenTank: 156 litresRange: approximately 860kmTop speed: 155km/h.

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.

I'd forgotten just how toey the Kluger is. With 200 "killer wasps" under the bonnet, it certainly gets mobile and gets mobile quickly. The trade-off unfortunately is higher fuel consumption, because Kluger has a reputation for knocking it back, given its head.Launched here in 2003 this is the second generation and is much larger and more powerful than before. Toyota upgraded the mid-sized softroad wagon in November, in the face of stiff competition and sliding sales, with price cuts but the addition of extra kit at the same time.Available in two and four-wheel drive configuration, with seating for five or seven people, Kluger is in many ways the ideal family wagon.VALUEOur test vehicle the mid range KX-S is priced from $50,990, or $4500 less than the all-wheel drive version.The revised range includes a revamped exterior with a new bonnet, grille, bumpers, front fenders, headlamps, taillights and door mouldings. Inside, Kluger has revised centre-dash register colour for all grades and increased seating flexibility for seven-seat versions with a 50:50 split-fold backrest for the third-row seat. Puddle lamps have also been added to the exterior mirrors.The seven seat KX-S is $500 cheaper but now gets perforated leather-accented trim on the first and second-row seats, and chrome finish on the roof rails. It also has an improved audio display screen and USB input for its six-disc CD MP3 audio unit.Our test vehicle has plenty of interior room, a good sized luggage area and will take most dirt tracks and beach access roads in its stride, which is generally the only off-roading that most people want to do.TECHNOLOGYOfficially, the mid-sized softroader is good for 11.0 litres/100km, but in reality it tends to use more than this. We were getting 12.5 litres/100km during testing, but in the past we've seen 14.5. At first we thought this might have been because this particular model is front wheel drive only, but the all-wheel drive spends most of its time in front-wheel drive and Toyota quotes the same 11.0 litres/100km for both wagons anyway.With 201kW of power at 6200 revs 337Nm of torque at 4700 revs, Kluger has a tow rating of 2000kg. With seven airbags and a full complement of safety systems, Kluger has a five-star safety rating and receives a three-star rating from the Movement’s Green Guide.VERDICTIf you don't mind paying for the fuel, then Kluger is sure to hit the spot.TOYOTA KLUGER KXS 2WDPrice: from $50,990Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmEngine: 3.5-litre V6 engine, 201kW/337NmBody: SUVTransmission: 5-speed automatic, two-wheel driveThirst: 11.0L/100km

More and more manufacturers are realising they can attract extra sales by creating two-wheel-drive versions of their 'soft roaders'.2WD buyers are looking for the practicality of the wagon - a commanding driving position, perhaps a little higher ride height for a short drive down a dry dirt track, the 'look' of an SUV, strong suspension, and in some cases seven seats - without getting a people-mover.If they don’t need to go offroad, in the snow, through muddy tracks, they don’t need the four-wheel-drive ability. But they can get everything else they want with 2WD versions of the SUV.What’s the benefit of 2WD?By opting for the 2WD version, the vehicle costs thousands of dollars less because that second set of drive-shafts, differentials, wheel joints and bits are not in the vehicle. And that means the 2WD versions weigh considerably less. Less weight means less fuel, a cost saving to the owner and lower exhaust emissions for the planet. And less weight means better performance in acceleration and handling.The month of May this year was the best-ever May for new-vehicle sales in Australia. Part of the reason was a staggering 29 per cent growth in SUV sales over May of last year. Clearly Aussies still love their SUVs and many of those extra sales were because of 2WD versions.Toyota offering its large Kluger in 2WD and 4WD, in all trim levels. The choice (between 2WD and 4WD) will give buyers an alternative purchase decision based on their real needs. Toyota also offers the RAV4, which gets revised gear ratios for with 2WD.Ford launched its Territory SUV in 2004 in 4WD and 2WD right from the start. But some brands don’t offer the full choice of models of the 4WD. For example, the Kia Sorento 2WD cannot have Kia's excellent turbo-diesel engine of the 4WD, but it's recognised that 2WD buyers are looking for lower buying and running costs and so only a base model engine is provided.KIA SORENTO - $36,490 Drives well with good ride; six-speed automatic, fuel economy Engine sometimes works hard to move 1814kg weightA much better onroad wagon than previous (4WD-only) model. The 2WD Kia Sorento is available only with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine to keep down cost.Engine: 2.4-litre, four-cylinder, petrolPower: 128kW @ 6000rpmTorque: 226Nm @ 3750rpmTransmission: Six-speed automatic; front-wheel-drive.HOLDEN CAPTIVA - $27,990 Low price, plenty of Holden dealers for back-up Modest power, tows only 1500kg, no auto optionThe Holden Captiva 2WD gives wagon motoring to Holden followers not wanting a V6 or V8 Commodore Sportwagon. Captiva has been selling well lately.Engine: 2.4-litre, four-cylinder, petrolPower: 103kW @ 5200rpmTorque: 220Nm @ 2400rpmTransmission: Five-speed manual; front-wheel-drive.TOYOTA KLUGER - $40,990 Engine power, full model range, including seven-seater Large, blunt design, fuel useThe larger option from Toyota can be had in all the trim levels of the Kluger 4WDs, which means seven-seaters as well. The well-known 3.5 V6 engine is a good 'un.Engine: 3.5-litre, V6, petrolPower: 201kW @ 6200rpmTorque: 337Nm @ 4700rpmTransmission: Five-speed automatic; front-wheel-drive.FORD TERRITORY - $39,890 Torque at low revs, parts costs, seven-seat option Size to park, fuel use, dating body shape, auto only a four-speedThe only Australian-designed and built SUV, Territory uses Ford Falcon running gear and is a popular vehicle, especially now that Falcon wagon is ceasing production.Engine: Four-litre, six-cylinder, petrolPower: 190kW @ 5250rpmTorque: 383Nm @ 2500rpmTransmission: Four-speed automatic; rear-wheel-drive.BMW X1 sDrive18i - $43,500 BMW owner pride, diesel option, equipment, fuel economy, 1430kg weight Expensive parts and servicingBMW's new compact SUV in two-wheel-drive form is known as the sDrive. It is one of the low-cost ways of getting behind the famous BMW badge and suits Yuppies.Engine: Two-litre, four-cylinder, petrolPower: 110kW @ 6400rpmTorque: 200Nm @ 3600rpmTransmission: Six-speed manual (optional six-speed automatic); rear-wheel-drive.TOYOTA RAV4 - $28,990 Fuel economy, Toyota reputation, modest kerb weight (1525kg), price Tows only 1500kgRAV is the most recent 4WD SUV available in 2WD and uses the Toyota Camry 2.4 engine. RAV started the compact SUV segment and has kept updated nicely since.Engine: 2.4-litre, four-cylinder, petrolPower: 125kW @ 6000rpmTorque: 224Nm @ 4000rpmTransmission: Five-speed manual (optional four-speed automatic); front-wheel-drive.

SUVs like the Toyota Kluger have been a major new force in the local car market in the last two decades, but the spiraling price of fuel is now putting their very survival under threat.The SUV has replaced the station wagon as the favourite transport for many families. Their appeal lies in their flexibility, size and perceived safety. They have become so popular that every car company has been forced to have at least one in their product offering. Toyota has been 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.MODEL WATCH Australians have always had a fascination with the bush; they have always been intrepid travelers, willing to drive thousands of kilometres over rough roads to explore this vast land. Carmakers understood this need to explore distant places and came to realize there was a market for a vehicle that could double as family transport while possessing the capability of getting to these sometimes remote locations.Initially they responded with models that were essentially toned down four-wheel drives, plenty tough enough for the bush, but far too rugged for town. It was in the 1990s that purpose-built models began to emerge. They had four-wheel drive and rode high, but were closer to the regular family four-door than the rough and tough wagon that had blazed a trail through the bush.There was the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V, but then came the Kluger, and mid-sized wagon capable of transporting the average family round town or the bush.The Kluger was a close relative of the Camry and that’s a pretty good way to look at it. It’s the softroader to suit the average family. Like the Camry it’s conservatively styled, but does everything pretty well without being too outstanding in any one area. Typically Toyota really.It will carry up to seven and still have 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 3.3-litre double overhead camshaft V6 producing 172 kW at 5600 revs and 328 Nm at 3600 revs, which gave it plenty of punch.All Klugers came with a five-speed automatic transmission, and all had four-wheel drive.On the black top the Kluger felt a little vague, typical of most offroaders. While it felt safe and sound it felt disconnected from the driver, all controls were light and lacked feel, but the ride was very comfortable. Off road, on rough bush tracks, the Kluger felt quite at home. Its suspension soaked up the bumps with ease, and it was a delight to drive down bush tracks that unsettled 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 SHOP 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. If you find anything walk away, there are plenty of Klugers on the market that haven’t been taken off the black top.The Kluger engine has a cam timing belt that needs changing at around 150,000 km, but few if any will have done anywhere near that amount of kays yet. While Toyota is renowned for its reliability there have been a number of concerning reports that suggest there are problems with the Kluger engine. Reports include damaged cylinder heads requiring replacement at 150,000-200,000 km, and con rods through blocks requiring the replacement of the whole engine.IN A CRASH There’s always an argument about the safety of offroad vehicles. The high driving position affords the driver a good view of the road ahead, which has to be good for safety, but that same high ride works against you when it comes to an emergency situation.The Kluger handles satisfactorily. It’s predictable, but not as responsive as a regular sedan and takes time to change course in an emergency. That can make it a bit of a handful in the lead up to a collision. The CV has dual front airbags, but the CVX and Grande had an array of front and side airbags, plus traction control and stability control.AT THE PUMP We are getting lots of queries from owners of all SUVs, including the Kluger, about switching to LPG to save on their running costs. That suggests they are concerned about it. Expect to get 10-12 L/100 km on average, a little less on the open road.OWNERS SAY Roger Turnbull’s 2005 Kluger CVX has done 81,000 km. It has been totally reliable and drives as fresh and tight as it did when new. He uses it for family transport, tows a small trailer, but doesn’t go offroad. He says it’s very comfortable and quiet and quite economical, but he has been unhappy with the standard of the service he’s received from the three Toyota dealers he’s tried.Richard Chaplin wanted a seven-seater for family transport when he bought his 2005 Kluger CV Sport. Richard chose the Kluger over a Ford Territory because it offered better fuel economy, resale and quality and was nicer to drive. His wife preferred it because it was a bit smaller than the Territory and she didn’t like the larger size of the Ford. They have had it for nearly three years now and still love it. It’s done 78,000 km it has never had a problem, only requiring regular servicing. It’s quiet and smooth, tows without a problem, and is reasonably economical. Unlike Roger Richard reckons his Toyota dealer is great.Jack van Bakel bought his Kluger in 2006 after considering a range of other vehicles. The one he chose had to be large enough to tow a caravan, it had to have four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, had to be value-for-money, and it had to easy to get in and out of. His only regret is that the Kluger, according to Toyota, is not suitable to be converted to LPG.LOOK FOR • comfortable ride• spirited performance• family-sized wagon• good visibility from high seating position• Toyota reliability• capable offroadTHE BOTTOM LINE Typically bland Toyota looks hide competent, well-built family wagon with the capability to tour the outback.RATING 75/100

It had appeared to be a good idea at the time.A couple of days away from the computer's big square eye so why not take a Toyota Kluger off the beaten trail and see what it can do in terms of off-road work.Nothing too strenuous. After all, it does not have a low range gearbox, no diff locks and it is impossible to turn the computer controlled stability control program off. It has only computer controlled all-wheel drive and hill descent assist.But there was time to spare so a romp through some forests near Dayboro should do the trick.All was going perfectly until the Kluger reached a section of track about which my 16-year-old navigator said; “Do you realise this part of the track is marked in red?”The "red” section consisted of a series of very steep descents with built-in steps. And on the other side of the “great divide” a similar section heading skyward again."What have I done?”There is no room to turn around and the Range Rover ahead of us has gone on and will shortly disappear from sight and the chance to render assistance."How am I going to explain to Toyota that their Kluger can be returned if it can be winched by helicopter out of the state forest.”"Does The Courier-Mail's insurance policy cover stupid actions by dopey testers?”They were just some of the thoughts running through this driver's mind.Nothing for it but to give it a go.Lock the auto into first and hit the hill descent assist button then hold the breath.The KX-S sports Kluger required just steering. Any attempts to use brake or accelerator while the hill descent button was engaged resulted in free fall. But left to its own devices the Kluger went down over the steps faultlessly. No skidding, no getting caught on the steps, no crabbing or sliding — just a slow controlled descent into the chasm."Wow. Amazing. But what about getting up the other side?”Keep it in first and give it gentle but well timed throttle. The 3.5-litre, 201kW, V6 performed faultlessly. Accelerate gently up the hill, ease off over the 'step' and repeat for the next half dozen steps.The all-wheel-drive system worked faultlessly. With no wheelspin or drama of any other sort the Kluger took the stairway to heaven in its stride. Up and over, up and over until the going was once again maintained forestry track.This SUV had already impressed with its road manners; very little body roll, impressive acceleration with the five-speed auto doing its job unobtrusively and a quiet cabin.The 3.5-litre V6, as used in a range of Toyotas including the Aurion, is a willing worker with a smooth, seamless power delivery and goodly amounts of torque spread at low to mid engine revs.The version of the Kluger on test was an all-wheel drive and a seven seater. It can be had, at a cheaper price, as two-wheel drive only and five-seater.The seven-seat arrangement was easy to use with the extra bench portion used in the second row to make it a three-person bench being stowed in the centre console between the driver and front passenger.Perhaps the biggest criticism of the Kluger is that the claimed fuel consumption of 11l/100km is hard to achieve on the open road never mind combining it with round town toottling. The test vehicle was returning around 13-14litres/100km if any of the ample performance was being used.And if you give it a flogging the amount of fuel used will make you think there is a V8 under the bonnet.But all in all this version of the Kluger is a delight to drive.It is only when you start sticking it into corners at sport sedan speeds that it cries enough and in the bush it will take some real rough country before it cries enough.But the traction and stability control cannot be turned off which, while being a boon in the boondocks, may turn out to be a setback in the sand. Snapshot Toyota Kluger KX-SPrice: $54,490Engine: 3456cc, DOHC, 24-valve, fuel injected V6 bore x stroke: 94 x 83mm, compression: 10.8:1Power: 201kW @ 6200rpmTorque: 337Nm @ 4700rpmAcceleration: 0-100km/h in 8secTransmission: AWD, 5-speed automatic, electronically controlled with sequential shift and flex lock-up torque converterDifferantial ratio: 3.478:1Fuel: ULP, 72-litre tankEconomy: 11L/100kmCO2 Emissions: 259g/km, Euro IVTurning circle: 11.8mBrakes: ventilated discs, twin-piston calipers (front), solid discs, single-piston calipers (rear); ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, traction control, stability control and hill holder systemSuspension: independent, MacPherson struts, L-arms, coil springs, gas dampers and ball joint-mounted stabiliser bar (front); independent, MacPherson struts, coil spring/damper units, dual lower transverse links, lower trailing arm, gas dampers and ball joint-mounted anti-roll bar (rear)Wheels: 17 x 7.5J alloysTyres: 245/65R17Dimensions (MM): 4785 (L), 1910 (W), 1730 (H), 2790 (Wheelbase), 206 (Clearance)Track: 1630mm (front), 1640mm (rear)Angles (DEGREES): 29 (approach), 24 (departure), 17 (breakover)Kerb weight: 1920-2020kgTowing: 2000kg (braked), 700kg (unbraked) 

Hill descent control is one of those electronic driver aids, increasingly common on SUVs, designed to take the guesswork out of off-roading. Judicious use of the brakes or low-range gears are needed to stop a vehicle running away dangerously on a steep slope. Hill descent systems do the braking for you.Every four-wheel drive is different, though, and the first time I nudge one to the point of no return on a challenging descent, HDC button pressed, I instinctively hover one foot over the brake pedal just in case.At the launch of the new Toyota Kluger at a 4WD park in Victoria early this week, I need not have worried. The second version for Australia of this mid-size SUV handled the rocky declines just as easily as it climbed the muddy inclines. Philosophically, it's from the soccer mum end of the market, but gizmos engaged, nerves were rapidly calmed.The Ford Territory is another SUV designed very much with school runs in mind and it also offers hill descent control.However, an electronic system isn't much use when you're careering down a sales slope. Since its brief heyday in 2005, the Territory has been suffering. Last year, as rising fuel prices scared buyers away from large vehicles, sales fell 22 per cent. Since then, the mid-size SUV segment has recovered strongly but the Territory has not. To the end of July it's down a further 7 per cent.The Ford SUV has clung onto segment leadership while losing sales to new entrants like the Holden Captiva. But the Kluger, backed by the impressive marketing might of Toyota, it has the potential to accelerate the Territory's descent and steal its crown. This week's presentations were explicit about Toyota's intention to take on the locally built Ford. “We have a very simple goal,” said sales and marketing chief David Buttner, “to maximise sales in the medium SUV market.”At $39,990 the Kluger range begins with a price disadvantage of $2000 against the cheapest Territory, but the Toyota product has been aimed with extreme accuracy at its target market. The Kluger can match the seven-seat capacity of the Territory and has an equipment list calibrated like a telescopic sight.Toyota has done its homework and knows the importance of safety features on the school run, so the Kluger has lots of them, all standard. It even introduces something I was surprised to learn had yet to appear in a Toyota; active headrests to prevent whiplash.Toyota knows that fuel thirst is a Territory weakness and so the Kluger is more economical to run, by more than one litre per 100km. It also comes with three years of fixed-price servicing.Needless to add, the new Kluger is bigger, more powerful and better equipped than the previous model. It lacks a diesel engine in the range, but so does the Ford.If you want one of those, then Toyota has the Prado, a more expensive, traditional mid-size off-roader.But all the sales action these days is in crossovers and the most significant move by Toyota is to borrow Ford's approach in making four-wheel drive an option on an SUV. The standard Kluger, like the standard Territory, puts power to the tarmac via only two of its wheels.Toyota expects the availability of a 2WD version to bring plenty of extra buyers to the badge. One executive forecast volumes at least quadruple the current running rate of 300 a month. At that level, the Kluger is edging into Territory territory. And you know when Toyota is willing to talk numbers, then its expectations are higher. The mid-size SUV segment is one of the few it doesn't lead.Toyota describes the Kluger as effectively an Aurion wagon, referring to the company's locally built large car. Although the two vehicles don't share any sheet metal, they both employ the same platform engineering and 3.5-litre V6 engine. With Toyota's global bodyline production system, the Kluger could be built on the same assembly lines in Melbourne which make Aurion and Camry.Although Toyota denies it, the possibility that the Kluger could be built at its Melbourne plant must figure in its thinking. At the moment, the Kluger is mainly a US market car, built in right-hand drive solely for Australia.Making it here would help fulfil many of Toyota Australia's production goals and its belief it needs a third model to secure its future. Supplying untapped right-hand drive export markets from Australia could make Kluger volumes viable.Right now though, it threatens to take sales from the Ford Territory just when Ford needs them more than ever to keep its Melbourne plant busy. The Territory is struggling at the showroom, but Ford's locally built Falcon, Fairlane and Ute are hurting even more.Success for the Kluger and the chance to build it here could come at the price of yet more pain for Ford.

Toyota has a knack of making drivers feel totally in control of its cars within minutes of taking the wheel. Such is the case with the new Kluger Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) due here in August at an as yet unannounced price.New Kluger replaces a popular model that rang a bell with family buyers. It's forged a place as the practical new family wagon and sold up a storm as a result despite styling that could be described as being rather pedestrian.It's bigger, better, bolder and offers five or seven seats depending on the model. Toyota execs remained tight lipped about the price and model lineup at a US preview of the new Kluger last week but there will probably be three grades and it will be highly unlikely to be a big step up in price compared to the existing model.Here's the big news.It will also be available in two wheel drive (front wheel drive) to counter the popular Ford Territory 2WD, at a price that will reflect a less sophisticated drive train.This alone will make new Kluger a strong contender in the medium SUV segment.All models are built on a Camry-derived platform and run the 3.5-litre, petrol V6 engine from Aurion and Tarago. It features variable valve timing and will kick out about the same amount of power as Aurion – 200kW making Kluger the most powerful medium SUV on the market.The constant all wheel drive system is similar to existing Kluger, refined and enhanced on the new model but there is no low range transfer case. Surprisingly, Kluger is a fairly handy tool off road as long as you don't expect too much.A five speed automatic transmission will be standard across the range offering sequential gear change mode.Built in Japan, new Kluger fits between RAV4 and Prado and boasts some impressive safety credentials, such as seven air bags and Toyota's version of stability control called VSC on all models.The VSC system is not only linked to the brakes and engine but also has an effect on steering in a skid situation.All Aussie models have electric power steering and a rear view camera, 17 inch alloy wheels with optional 19 inch on models that don't have them as standard.The body has ample room for seven thanks to 75mm more wheelbase and a design that features a short bonnet/large passenger compartment.Access to the third row of seats is facilitated by a removable centre second row seat.The spare is full size.As is the case with all Toyota's sold in Australia, significant local input has been used on suspension set-up and engine cooling.It is likely we will also see hill descent control and hill start assist on the local model.On the road, new Kluger is an impressive beast with plenty of performance despite weighing in at around 1800kg.It is smooth and powerful and the new five speed auto is silky smooth.The ride is supple and controlled and it is whisper quiet at highway speed.Some models will be equipped with high-end audio including a sub-woofer which sounds superb. The Kluger is easy to drive and is full of practical features including more drink holders than I could count, multi-adjustable driving position and opening tailgate glass.The interior has a generic Toyota look that's easy on the eye and simple to use.When it arrives, Kluger will be well specced for the money and comes in some striking new colours. 

Toyota has been king of the 4WD market in Australia for decades. Some models, such as the best-selling LandCruiser, are synonymous with offroading in this country and the staple transport of many country folks.In recent years Cruisers have often become part of the suburban scene as well. However, they are truck-like in some respects and many suburban dwellers look for something softer, though still with a degree of toughness in looks and physical makeup.Enter, in late 2003, the Toyota Kluger. Slightly smaller than the traditional LandCruiser but still capable of carrying seven people, provided two of them are child-size, Kluger has more offroad ability than most owners will ever need.Based on the front-drive Toyota Camry, and a close cousin of the recently introduced Lexus RX330, the Kluger is a large, conservatively styled station wagon that performs almost as well as a conventional wagon in on-road conditions but is aimed at those who don't actually want a 4WD but rather the macho looks and practical interior space they provide.Cynics may laugh at vehicles like this but Toyota is merely being pragmatic in providing a tough-looking people-mover. And sales figures confirm Toyota has hit the nail on the head because it has been a winner here since the day it arrived. So there is already a good number on the used-4WD market.The limiting factor of the Kluger by 4WD standards is poor ground clearance. Kluger ride height is about halfway between that of a normal 4WD and a passenger car.However, the 4WD system is a good one that gives the Kluger good grip on slippery dirt roads so you can do some off-the-beaten-track running with little risk of getting stuck.But beach driving should be attempted only if the sand is reasonably firm as deep ruts can get the Toyota bogged down to its belly.Because of the lower ground clearance, ride comfort is good and Kluger's suspension soaks up typical Australian bush roads well.Handling on-road is better than average for the class. Interior noise levels are well suppressed almost to passenger car standards, because there's some Lexus in every Kluger — the two share a fair bit of underbody gear.Kluger can carry four adults and three children in comfort. The rear seat has a 60/40 split and slides backwards and forwards depending on how much passenger/luggage space you require. Rear-seat legroom with it pushed all the way rearwards is impressive.The front seat backrests can be folded back at right angles to make a not-very-comfortable emergency bed.The rearmost seat row is an optional extra that folds completely out of sight. When you buy a Kluger as a five-seater you get handy underfloor luggage spots. Build quality is good and, although relatively new to the Australian market, the Kluger looks set to have a long and trouble-free life.Toyota's dealer network is legendary in Australia for its reach and competence. Though not all outback dealerships will carry spare parts for the Kluger, they can generally get bits freighted to them within a day or so.Spare parts prices are about average for this class and we have heard of no complaints about availability.Underbonnet space is good and the competent home mechanic should be able to do routine servicing and maintenance work.As always, leave safety-related items to experts. And we recommend having a workshop manual on standby before you pick up the first spanner.Insurance costs are reasonable for a vehicle in this class. The fact that Kluger is really regarded as a car by virtually all owners certainly stands it in good stead in this area.UNDER THE BONNETPower comes from a 3.3-litre twin-cam V6 engine with plenty of grunt, even in the low-to-mid-range areas.At this stage the Kluger's engine hasn't been upgraded to the 3.5-litre engine seen in the Lexus RX350, but we expect that will be only a matter of time.The Kluger five-speed automatic is a sophisticated unit that's smooth and intelligent in its operation. It's easy to use it manually, though it's not a full sequential transmission in the modern mode.As befits a relatively upmarket passenger car, there's no option of a manual gearbox.DANGER SIGNSKluger's still quite new on the market, so there's no real history of problems at this stage, nor do we expect any.Be sure the engine starts within a second or so of you turning the key, and that it settles into a steady idle immediately it kicks over.Check that an automatic transmission doesn't hunt up and down through the gears and doesn't hold onto too high a gear when it should change down.Look over the body for signs of crash repairs. Examine the underbody for damage. The most likely areas to suffer are the bumper corners and the door sills. So few are taken into real offroad conditions that it's probably best to pass up on one that has.