2018 Toyota Kluger

Detailed Review

The first incarnation of the Kluger/Highlander, coded XU20, was produced from 2000 to 2007. The Highlander/Kluger’s unibody chassis and independent rear suspension were built for on-road comfort, unlike Toyota’s 4Runner and other mid-sized competitors such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The MHU28 hybrid version was released in 2005.

From 2007 through 2013, the XU40 was the second generation of the Kluger/Highlander. The third version of the Kluger, known as the XU50 debuted in 2013 and was manufactured until 2019. In 2016, it received a facelift that included an updated grille, restyled headlights and tail lights, and new external and interior colors.

The fourth version of the Kluger/Highlander codenamed XU70, began production in 2019 and is still ongoing. The 2018 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.

2018 Toyota Kluger Grades

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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 interior of the 2018 Toyota Kluger is sophisticated and superb.

The first row provides ample space for the head and legs. The seats cling to you tightly and comfortably fit your thighs. The second row is similar to the first, with plenty of knee and headroom. The third row of seats is extremely cramped for adults but great for children.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Toyota Kluger includes several compartment alternatives for storage that improve occupant comfort.

A center console, two cupholders, a glovebox, and door pockets are all present in the front row. There are two cupholders and door pockets in the second row. Cupholders are available to third-row passengers.

Boot Space

With all seats in position, the 2018 Toyota Kluger has 6.8 cubic feet of space. When the third-row seat is folded, the volume expands to 18.6 cubic feet. When the second and third rows are folded down, the Kluger has 66.1 cubic feet of space.

Exterior

The 2018 Toyota Kluger has a striking and stylish appearance.

There are new headlights with integrated LED daytime lighting up front, as well as an eye-catching new dual-grille design that now extends down to the lower fascia. It has a similar design to the spindle grille found on the Lexus models. The distinctive Toyota logo adds to its commanding presence.

LED taillights, turn signals, and an electronically operated tailgate are all present in the rear.

2018 Toyota Kluger Safety Features

The 2018 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).

2018 Toyota Kluger Fuel Consumption

2018 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L petrol engine consumption- 9.3 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L hybrid engine consumption- 17.2 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Kluger Acceleration

2018 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.1 secs

2018 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.4 secs

The 2018 Toyota Kluger Fuel Tank Capacity: 72 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 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

The 2018 Toyota Kluger provides a smooth, stable, and comfortable ride.

The steering wheel is light and responsive to road curvature. The suspension system has been fine-tuned to protect occupants from shaky motions while driving on uneven road surfaces.

Its approach and departure angles allow it to cruise effortlessly in off-road terrains. The interior is also well-insulated against engine noise and road shocks.

Driving aids including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, Hill-start Assist, and Downhill Assist Controls are incorporated in this vehicle, making it even easier to get started in the Kluger.

Reliability

The 2018 Toyota Kluger is regarded as a dependable vehicle. It has a high ground clearance, allowing it to cruise in rugged terrain without the risk of damaging body components. Transmission problems are the most frequently reported by Kluger owners. Regular repair and maintenance are required to avoid such issues.

Refer to the Toyota Kluger buyer guide for a thorough dependability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

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 2018 Toyota Kluger

Agile handling

Comfortable and quiet cabin

What we don’t

Cramped third-row seat

No diesel variant

Conclusion

The 2018 Toyota Kluger is undeniably dependable, making it an excellent choice for those with large families. It comes in both 2WD and 4WD variations, so individuals in metropolis may use it to commute or go shopping, while those in rural areas can conquer tough roads. Individuals with limited funds may be unable to acquire this vehicle due to its high purchase price. Click here to download a copy of the 2018 Toyota Kluger Owner’s Manual.