2019 Toyota Kluger Review
Toyota Kluger, also known as Toyota Highlander, is undeniably outperforming its competitors due to its sleek appearance, dependability, and utility. Its popularity in the Kenyan market has skyrocketed, and you can rarely drive a long distance without spotting a Kluger. It competes with the Mazda CX-9, the Nissan Pathfinder, the Honda Pilot, the Chevrolet Traverse, the Dodge Durango, the Volkswagen Atlas, the Hyundai Palisade, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the Subaru Ascent.
Detailed Review
2019 Toyota Kluger front and side view
The first generation Kluger/Highlander, codenamed XU20, was manufactured from 2000 to 2007. Unlike Toyota’s 4Runner and other mid-sized competitors such as 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 XU40 was the Kluger/Highlander’s second generation from 2007 to 2013. The XU50, the third iteration of the Kluger, debuted in 2013 and was produced until 2019. It was given a facelift in 2016, which includes a redesigned grille, restyled headlights and tail lights, and new exterior and interior colors.
The fourth generation Kluger/Highlander, coded XU70, commenced manufacturing in 2019 and is currently in production. The 2019 Toyota Kluger comes with two engine options: a 3.5 L 2GR-FKS (Petrol) and a 3.5 L 2GR-FXE (Hybrid), both mated to an eight-speed automated transmission.
2019 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.
- GXL BLACK EDITION (2WD)- This grade comes with power steering, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, a digital audio broadcast radio, an engine immobilizer, and LED running lights
- GXL BLACK EDITION (AWD)- This grade has climate control, a 12-volt power outlet, power windows, power mirrors, a central locking remote control, a traction control system, and an MP3-compatible audio/CD player.
Interior
Legroom & Space
The cabin of the 2019 Toyota Kluger is both roomy and elegant.
There is plenty of headroom and legroom in the first row. The seats may also recline to a comfortable posture. The second row is also more spacious, with plenty of knee and headroom. The third-row seats, as with any 7-seater, are designed for children, however, adults will be exceedingly uncomfortable due to the limited space.
2019 Toyota Kluger first row
2019 Toyota Kluger second row
2019 Toyota Kluger third row
Cabin Storage
The 2019 Toyota Kluger has a variety of storage compartment options that boost occupant comfort.
The front row includes a center console, two cupholders, a glovebox, and door pockets. The second row has two cupholders and door pockets. Third-row passengers may utilize cupholders.
Boot Space
The 2019 Toyota Kluger has a cargo area that can haul small and mid-sized luggage. If more space is needed, the second and third-row seats can be retracted.
2019 Toyota Kluger boot space
Exterior
The 2019 Toyota Kluger boasts a commanding and refined design. The front end has a large twin grille that extends down to the lower fascia, akin to the Lexus. LED headlights and daytime running lights add a clean and sophisticated touch to this car. Fog lights and air vents are also incorporated up-front.
LED tail lamps and turn signals are featured at the rear. Its tailgate is controlled electronically.
2019 Toyota Kluger front view
2019 Toyota Kluger front and side view
2019 Toyota Kluger rear and side view
2019 Toyota Kluger rear view
2019 Toyota Kluger Safety Features
The 2019 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).
2019 Toyota Kluger Fuel Consumption
2019 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L petrol engine consumption- 9.1 km/l on average
2019 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L hybrid engine consumption- 16.6 km/l on average
2019 Toyota Kluger Acceleration
2019 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.0 secs
2019 Toyota Kluger 3.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.3 secs
The 2019 Toyota Kluger Fuel Tank Capacity: 72 liters
Ground Clearance
The 2019 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 2019 Toyota Kluger has a decent ride.
The steering wheel is easy to control and so responds to road curvature superbly. The suspension system has been fine-tuned to keep occupants safe while driving on uneven road surfaces.
Its approach and departure angles allow it to easily glide through off-road terrain.
The braking system is capable of bringing this mid-size SUV to a complete stop in a matter of seconds, avoiding potential collisions. The interior is likewise well-insulated from engine noise and road vibrations.
This vehicle additionally features a lane departure warning, Hill-start Assist, an anti-lock braking system, and electronic brakeforce distribution.
2019 Toyota Kluger steering wheel
2019 Toyota Kluger cluster meter
2019 Toyota Kluger automatic gear shift
2019 Toyota Kluger wheel
2019 Toyota Kluger suspension system
Reliability
The 2019 Toyota Kluger is known for its dependability. It features a substantial ground clearance, allowing it to travel through rough terrain without the risk of compromising body components. Regular repair and maintenance are essential to keep the car in good condition.
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 2019 Toyota Kluger
Strong and refined powertrain
Many standard safety features
Upscale cabin
What we don’t
Cramped third-row seat
No diesel variant
Conclusion
The 2019 Toyota Kluger is an excellent vehicle for larger families. Its enormous cargo area when the seats are folded allows it to transport significant amounts of cargo at once. Even though it is a gorgeous car to own, those on a tight budget may be unable to purchase it. Click here to download a copy of the 2019 Toyota Kluger Owner’s Manual.
2019 Toyota Kluger side view
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