What's the difference?
Straight off the bat, let's just acknowledge that there's nothing new about the Toyota Kluger large SUV for 2025 – but that might not be a bad thing.
In a world where there seems to be some new fangdangled piece of car tech out there that works on paper but not in reality - like keyfobs that don't unlock the car properly, or multimedia systems that are just too darn smart for their own good.
There is something quite charming about the familiar specs and on-road comfort of the mid-spec Toyota Kluger GXL seven-seater we're family testing this week. In true Toyota style, it has a healthy mix of the tradition thrown in with workable technology.
It's newer seven-seat SUV rivals might try to tell you that the old Kluger is starting to fall behind, but is it? Or will simplicity win out for tired parents who just want an SUV to do what it says it will?
The entire 2025 Nissan Patrol range – including the Ti-based, Premcar-boosted Warrior – has undergone a cabin update.
Changes include a new bigger touchscreen multimedia system, wireless charging and an off-road monitor.
The same V8 engine remains across the range so there are no changes to power and torque.
So, do these cabin tech updates make any kind of significant difference to the Warrior package?
The Toyota Kluger GXL Hybrid has been the ultimate SUV this week, as it fits my gear and family in comfort, the on-road handling is excellent and the fuel usage makes owning this long term actually feasible.
This is a great example of a mid-spec seven-seater that is both functional and comfortable. There’s lots to satisfy here and even though it hasn’t been updated, it may be a case of ‘if it aint broke, don’t fix it’.
The Nissan Patrol Warrior is a very capable 4WD, it’s a refined, comfortable all-rounder with plenty of potential as a touring vehicle.
PremCar’s work here – as on the Navara – has made a good 4WD even better.
All of that conversion work, engineering upgrades and fitment of accessories is the kind of sensible work an experienced 4WDer would apply via the aftermarket. The bonus here is that it’s all factory-backed and covered by a 10-year/300,000km warranty, albeit with conditions.
If you can cope with the fuel bills, this big V8 4WD remains a refreshingly old-school style of off-roader – relying more on sheer grunt than touchy tech – and the latest round of cabin updates has added more appeal to what is already a very appealing vehicle.