Toyota Kluger Grande Car Review
March 4, 2010 by admin
Filed under Car Reviews
Toyota Kluger Grande AWD Review
The Grande is the top of the Kluger range that leads the medium SUV market and, as well as having its manufacturer’s reputation for quality, reliability, durability and safety, it comes with an impressive array of features to satisfy even the most discriminating buyer.
The Toyota 2GR-FE 3.5-litre six cylinder petrol engine – shared with the Aurion, RAV4 V6 & Tarago V6 – provides plenty of torque and power, whilst remaining fairly economical (8.4ltrs/100km). Combined with a silky 5peed automatic transmission and four corner strut suspension, the Grande provides a stable and smooth ride of a family sedan.
The Kluger has a commanding driving position that provides great visibility and scope for adjustment to fit most sized drivers comfortably. Good rearward vision is further aided by a reversing camera, and a wide-angle mirror above the rear-view mirror provides an excellent view of the rear seats.
Standard are many state-of-the-art features such as heated/electrically adjustable seats, a touch screen Satellite Navigation System, Bluetooth wireless connection for mobile ‘phones, triple-zone climate control air-conditioning, and a front electric moonroof.
As standard, the audio/visual features include a rear DVD player and screen, Bluetooth connectivity for mobile ‘phones, a four-CD/MP3-compatible stereo, AM/FM tuner, six speaker sound system and steering wheel audio controls.
On the safety front, ABS/EBD and TRC and Vehicle Stability Control are standard, as are driver and front passenger air bags, front side air-bags, front and rear side curtain air-bags and driver’s knee air-bag.
Pros: Smooth V6 engine; capable AWD system; user-friendly cockpit with great equipment as standard
Cons: Rear seats cannot split for luggage/storage; no parking sensors, no auto wipers, no auxiliary audio input; second row centre seat is narrow
Competitors: Holden Captiva; Ford Territory; Mazda CX-9; Nissan Pathfinder; Subaru Tribeca