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2024 Toyota Kluger GXL: Quick review

The Kluger sweet-spot for those seeking comfort and convenience

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Gallery6
8.3/10Score

Things we like

  • Hybrid fuel economy
  • Comfortable ride and handling
  • Low servicing costs

Not so much

  • Small boot space
  • Tight third-row leg room
  • Price jump from GX a bit steep

In the realm of family SUVs, the Toyota Kluger has long been a pillar and in 2024, it maintains its unyielding reputation for being a practical and dependable choice.

Since its arrival on Australian soil in the early 2000s, this seven-seater vehicle has become a staple for Australian families.

However, within the highly competitive SUV market, the question arises: Does the 2024 Kluger GXL still stand out as the preferred choice for families seeking a reliable SUV?

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Pricing and features

Situated as the middle trim level in the Toyota Kluger lineup, the GXL offers an appealing balance of affordability and features. With prices starting from $61,310 before on-road costs, the Kluger GXL sits about 10k above the entry level GX.

Under the bonnet of the Kluger GXL lies an efficient 2.4-litre turbo petrol engine, coupled with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivers a robust 198kW of power and 420Nm of torque, providing ample performance for your everyday driving requirements.

The most expensive GXL variant, starting at $67,810, features a 2.5-litre hybrid engine that generates 142kW and 242Nm, showcasing impressive fuel efficiency with a rating of just 5.6L/100km.

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Kluger GXL

The entry level GX offers plenty of standard spec, such as:

Toyota Kluger GX features
18-inch alloy wheelsLeather accented steering wheel
8.0-inch touchscreenLED headlamps, DRLs and rear lights
Adaptive cruise controlRain-sensing windscreen wipers
Autonomous emergency brakingRear cross traffic alert
Blind spot monitorRear parking sensors
Blutooth connectivityReversing camera
Digital Radio (DAB+)Road sign assist
Electronic parking brakeShark fin antenna
Fog lampssix-speaker sound system
Heated powered side mirrorsSmart keyless entry/start
Hill-start assistSound system
Lane departure alertThree-zone climate control
Lane keeping assistUSB ports - 3x front, 2x rear
Lane trace assistWireless Apple CarPlay

However taking the step up to the mid-spec GXL adds:

Kluger GXL additional features
12.3-inch colour touchscreenIn-built satellite navigation
8-way power adjusted front seatsPowered driver's seat lumbar adjustment
Synthetic leather interiorHeated front seats
Powered tailgateRoof rails
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Safety

The Kluger attained the highest safety rating of five stars from ANCAP, an obtained at launch time testing in 2021.

Regarding crash safety, this family SUV has demonstrated impressive performance, securing a 90 percent rating for adult occupant protection and an 88 percent rating for child occupant protection.

The entire lineup comes equipped with seven airbags, encompassing dual front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, and a driver's knee airbag.

Notably, the curtain airbag extends its protection to passengers seated in the third row.

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2024 Toyota Kluger safety features
Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrial and daytime cyclist protectionActive cruise control with curve speed reduction
Lane departure warningLane keeping assist
Automatic highbeamIntersection turn assist
Lane trace assistRoad Sign Assist
Blind-spot monitorRear cross traffic alert
Rear parking sensorsFront parking sensors
Reversing camera with guide linesPanoramic view parking monitor (Grande only)

Key rivals

The Kluger faces stiff competition from other family SUVs, including:

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The 2024 Toyota Kluger maintains its reputation as a popular 7-seater family vehicle, following its refresh in 2021.

While it comes well-equipped as a base model, we believe that moving up to the GXL, positioned in the middle of the lineup, emerges as the obvious choice when evaluating equipment levels and pricing. The GXL offers an array of enticing creature comforts that outshine those found in the GX variant.

In terms of its powertrain, the hybrid option boasts outstanding fuel efficiency that should not be underestimated. Coupled with its cost-effective maintenance, it is likely the most economical three-row SUV in terms of both ownership and operation.

8.3/10Score

Things we like

  • Hybrid fuel economy
  • Comfortable ride and handling
  • Low servicing costs

Not so much

  • Small boot space
  • Tight third-row leg room
  • Price jump from GX a bit steep

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