Next Generation Kluger breaks cover
It has gone on sale in the USA revealing its new styling. It has a new front end, with large recessed headlights flowing into muscular front guards. Toyota say it makes a contemporary and forceful statement. Kluger is larger, roomier and more spacious with improved versatility and ride comfort. Safety equipment now includes seven airbags - dual front, front side and full-length curtain plus a driver's knee airbag - as well as a reverse camera, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, and ABS anti-skid brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (AB-i). For the first time, Kluger will offer two-wheel drive models in addition to all-wheel drive.
Toyota has made major technical changes to the new Kluger.
It has a new 3.5-litre quad-cam V6 with dual VVT-i that develops at least 200kW of power, making it the most powerful non-turbo engine in its class. It drives through an electronically controlled five-speed intelligent automatic transmission with sequential shift. Ergonomics and instrument graphics enhance the feeling of space and contribute to safety by being universally similar across the Toyota range - a big plus for occupational health and safety. The steering column now offers both tilt and telescopic functions to help provide the most comfortable driving position possible.
Kluger is available with five seats or seven seats.
The second and third row seats can be folded forward and flat to provide more cargo space. Available features shown on US models include front and rear climate controlled air conditioning, leather seats, Smart Entry and Smart Start system, fog lamps, CD stacker and, for telephone connection, a Bluetooth-compatible sound system. Kluger rides on a new chassis with a longer wheelbase and greater ground clearance, making it an even more capable off-roader than the previous generation. Its suspension was significantly revised to improve ride and handling on bitumen and on dirt.
On sale in August - this is the first time a 2WD version will sell alongside the AWD version.