THE TOYOTA KLUGER HAS proven a popular choice with Australian buyers (not least the over-50s) being “not too large, not too small”. But SUV buyers in many categories are missing the economy of diesel as it progressively is no longer being offered.
In keeping with its commitment to offer every model in both conventional and hybrid variants, Toyota has confirmed the next-generation Kluger SUV will be available with both hybrid and petrol engine options when it arrives in Australia in the first half of next year.
The new seven-seat Kluger embraces a similar dual-powertrain strategy to that adopted by the Yaris Cross SUV due later this year and the latest-generation C-HR and RAV4. We’ll be interested to see how a hybrid Kluger copes with towing duties. Our enquiries to Toyota indicate it’s still too early for them to release details regarding the hybrid Kluger’s towing abilities. As soon as we get details, we’ll bring them to you.
Toyota is the leader in both SUV and hybrid sales in Australia with the all-new Kluger expected to add to the increasing popularity of both categories.
It will be the first time a hybrid powertrain has been offered on Kluger in Australia with the hybrid range now accounting for more than one in every five Toyota sales.
Built in the United States, the newest Kluger will provide customers with the choice of a 2.5-litre new-generation hybrid system or a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine.
Kluger’s total hybrid system power output is expected to be 179kW when it arrives in Australia, with excellent fuel economy and low emissions.
Its performance is supplemented by electric motors and a hybrid battery located under the second-row seats.
The powerful quad-cam V6 is expected to deliver 218kW to the road through a direct shift eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Kluger will also offer front and all-wheel-drive (AWD) traction alternatives for the V6, with the hybrid drivetrain equipped exclusively with an intelligent AWD system that incorporates front and rear electric motors.
The fourth-generation Kluger sits on the Toyota New Global Architecture GA-K platform, providing multiple benefits for dynamics, safety and styling.
It has enabled engineers to develop a lightweight and highly rigid bodyshell with a low centre of gravity – features that provide the new SUV with nimble handling and comfortable driving around town and on the highway.
The new Kluger will be equipped with advanced Toyota Safety Sense active safety technologies designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions across a wide range of traffic situations.
Kluger’s new platform has also allowed designers to craft a longer, more distinctive body that delivers a more flexible interior with expanded cargo space and a more tailored ambience.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales and Marketing Sean Hanley said the hybrid Kluger is a logical step for a company that has sold more than 15 million hybrid vehicles globally, including in excess of 135,000 in Australia.
“The all-new hybrid Kluger is the result of combining Toyota’s hybrid leadership with extensive experience in SUVs, along with an unrivalled reputation for quality, durability and reliability,” Mr Hanley said.
Once we have tested and assessed the new Toyota Kluger hybrid SUV, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.