2017 Toyota Kluger Review
The Toyota Kluger, commonly known as the Toyota Highlander, is a midsize crossover SUV manufactured and sold by Toyota. The Kluger is the crossover version of Toyota's more rugged, truck-based mid-size 4Runner, and it was the company's best-selling SUV until it was surpassed by the smaller RAV4 in 2006. The name derives from the German word klug, which signifies clever or smart. Because of its customary high-tech features, agile handling, and exceptional fuel efficiency, it has a significant following in Kenya. Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Durango, Volkswagen Atlas, Hyundai Palisade, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Subaru Ascent are among its competitors.
Detailed Review
2017 Toyota Kluger front view
The first iteration of the Kluger/Highlander codenamed XU20, began production in 2000 and lasted until 2007. Unlike Toyota’s 4Runner and other mid-sized competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Highlander/Kluger’s unibody chassis and independent rear suspension were designed for on-road comfort. In 2005, the MHU28 hybrid version was released.
The second generation of the Kluger/Highlander designated XU40 was produced from 2007 to 2013. The third generation of the Kluger designated XU50 debuted in 2013 and was produced up to 2019. It received a facelift in 2016 which saw it have an updated fascia with restyled headlights and tail lights, and updated exterior and interior colors.
The fourth version of the Kluger/Highlander codenamed XU70, began production in 2019 and is still ongoing. The 2017 Toyota Kluger is available with two engine options, a 3.5 L 2GR-FKS (Petrol), and a 3.5 L 2GR-FXE (Hybrid), all of which are linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
2017 Toyota Kluger Grades
- GX (4×2)- This grade comes with body-colored exterior handles, map/reading lights, an engine immobilizer, mobile phone connectivity, power steering, and AUX/USB input.
- GXL (4×2)- This grade has an electronic brakeforce distribution, hill-holder, anti-lock braking system, body-colored bumpers, a remote fuel lid release, hill-descent control, brake assist, and keyless entry.
- GX (4×4)- This grade boasts LED daytime running lights, mud flaps, a digital audio broadcast radio, a traction control system, heated front seats, and an illuminated glovebox compartment.
- GXL (4×4)- This grade is fitted with a trip computer, power windows, MP3 compatible audio/CD player, central locking remote control, and a lane departure warning.
- GRANDE (4×4)- This grade is equipped with a multi-function control screen, a parking distance control rear, climate control, roof rails, cruise control, and rear-view auto-dimming.
- GRANDE (4×2)- This grade comes with a vehicle stability control, power tailgate, body-colored exterior mirrors, a digital video-disc player, rear privacy glass, lane change warning, Radio CD with 6 speakers, and 19-inch alloy wheels.
Interior Legroom & Space
The 2017 Toyota Kluger features a classy interior, with dark leather all around and a sweeping dashboard that gives it a savvy, if somewhat somber, appearance. In the first row, the seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom. The second-row seats also provide ample space for passengers. The third-row seats are however a bit tight and are ideal for children or small-sized adults.
Cabin Storage
The 2017 Toyota Kluger encompasses several compartment storages that enhances the comfort of occupants.
The first row features a center console, two cupholders, a glovebox, and door pockets. The second row has two cupholders, jacket pockets, and door pockets. Passengers in the third row have access to cupholders.
Boot Space
The 2017 Toyota Kluger has 8.5 cubic feet of space with all seats in place. Fold the third-row seat and the space increases to 19.4 cubic feet. When the second and third-row seats are retracted the Kluger boasts 40.4 cubic feet of space.
Exterior
The 2017 Toyota Kluger boasts an imposing and modern exterior design. that is sure to turn heads on the road. The front end has new headlights with integrated LED daytime illumination, as well as a striking new dual-grille design. The iconic Toyota logo contributes to its imposing appearance. Fog lamps and air vents on the lower fascia lend aerodynamic cues. The rear lights are dark red, with new LED trademark lighting standards implemented across the range. There is also an electronically driven tailgate.
2017 Toyota Kluger Safety Features
The 2017 Toyota Kluger has SRS Airbags, Curtain airbags, an antilock Brake System(ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), steering-assisted Vehicle Stability Control(S-VSC), collision avoidance system, Lane departure warning, and Traction Control (TRC).
2017 Toyota Kluger Fuel Consumption
2017 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L petrol engine consumption- 9.4 km/l on average
2017 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L hybrid engine consumption- 17.5 km/l on average
2017 Toyota Kluger Acceleration
2017 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.1 secs
2017 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.6 secs
The 2017 Toyota Kluger Fuel Tank Capacity: 72 liters
Ground Clearance
The 2017 Toyota Kluger has a ground clearance of 7.9 inches.
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
The advantage of owning a Toyota is that spare parts and other body components are readily available because they share several components. The Kluger is no different.
Stability And Handling
Toyota has made enormous strides in the past ten years in getting back to producing automobiles that are both attractive and engaging for drivers, and the current Kluger has benefited much from it.
The steering wheel of the 2017 Kluger feels light and connected, firming up once you reach highway speeds to provide a smooth drive. Power distribution is well-suited for driving about town, feels well-balanced at lower speeds (neither sluggish nor underpowered), and maintains a respectable velocity once you ramp up the pace. The engine does a good job of keeping the Kluger running smoothly in any situation.
The Kluger easily handles the coarse chip roads because of its reasonable approach and departure angles.
Blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, Hill-start Assist, and Downhill Assist Controls are among the driving aids included in this car, making it even easier to get started in the Kluger.
2017 Toyota Kluger steering wheel
Reliability
The 2017 Toyota Kluger is considered a reliable car. It boasts a good ground clearance hence it can cruise very well in off-road terrains without any risk of damaging body components. Regular repair and maintenance are essential to keep the vehicle in good working condition.
Refer to the Toyota Kluger buyer guide for a thorough reliability report.
Resale Value: Good
Toyota Kluger Competitors: Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Durango, Volkswagen Atlas, Hyundai Palisade, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Subaru Ascent.
What we like about the 2017 Toyota Kluger
Agile handling
Comfortable and quiet cabin
Above-average fuel economy
What we don’t
Cramped third-row seat
No Apple car play or Android Auto
No diesel variant
Conclusion
The 2017 Toyota Kluger shone as a family hauler, and it’s easy to understand why SUVs are swiftly supplanting sedans as the vehicle of choice for anyone who has to transport more than five people. Individuals on a tight budget, on the other hand, may be unable to afford this car due to its high price. Click here to download the 2017 Toyota Kluger owner’s manual.
2017 Toyota Kluger rear and side view
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