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?
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.
The entry level GX offers plenty of standard spec, such as:
Toyota Kluger GX features | |
---|---|
18-inch alloy wheels | Leather accented steering wheel |
8.0-inch touchscreen | LED headlamps, DRLs and rear lights |
Adaptive cruise control | Rain-sensing windscreen wipers |
Autonomous emergency braking | Rear cross traffic alert |
Blind spot monitor | Rear parking sensors |
Blutooth connectivity | Reversing camera |
Digital Radio (DAB+) | Road sign assist |
Electronic parking brake | Shark fin antenna |
Fog lamps | six-speaker sound system |
Heated powered side mirrors | Smart keyless entry/start |
Hill-start assist | Sound system |
Lane departure alert | Three-zone climate control |
Lane keeping assist | USB ports - 3x front, 2x rear |
Lane trace assist | Wireless Apple CarPlay |
However taking the step up to the mid-spec GXL adds:
12.3-inch colour touchscreen | In-built satellite navigation |
8-way power adjusted front seats | Powered driver's seat lumbar adjustment |
Synthetic leather interior | Heated front seats |
Powered tailgate | Roof rails |
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.
2024 Toyota Kluger safety features | |
---|---|
Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrial and daytime cyclist protection | Active cruise control with curve speed reduction |
Lane departure warning | Lane keeping assist |
Automatic highbeam | Intersection turn assist |
Lane trace assist | Road Sign Assist |
Blind-spot monitor | Rear cross traffic alert |
Rear parking sensors | Front parking sensors |
Reversing camera with guide lines | Panoramic view parking monitor (Grande only) |
Key rivals
The Kluger faces stiff competition from other family SUVs, including:
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.
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
COMMENTS