TOYOTA: Toyota Kluger 2007 press release review

SIX MODELS IN KLUGER RANGE

Toyota’s new Kluger Sports Utility Vehicle has the choice of two drivetrains and three equipment grades, which makes it available in six models in total.

All models have a 3.5-litre dual-VVT-i engine and electronically controlled automatic transmission.

The driveline choices are two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

The model grades in ascending order are: KX-R, KX-S and Grande.

Kluger KX-R will be offered as a five-seat wagon, with the combined option of a third-row seat and manual rear air conditioning.

The KX-S and Grande have seven-seat capacity as standard.

Kluger is well specified throughout the model line-up.

All models have the safety features of seven SRS airbags, including driver’s knee airbag, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC).

Standard equipment also includes air conditioning, reversing camera, electric power-assisted steering, alloy wheels, steering-wheel audio and multi-information display controls, MP3-compatible CD/tuner with audio input, split-fold second-row seat with stowable centre seat, glass hatch in the tailgate, glass-mounted radio antenna and Optitron instruments.

Kluger KX-S has 19-inch alloy wheels (instead of 17-inch) and additional exterior features, over KX-R, of smoked chrome radiator grille, front foglamps, halogen smoked headlamp and rear lamp treatment, and dark silver roof rails.

Inside, KX-S has the added features of front dual-zone climate-control air conditioning, rear climate-control air conditioning, third-row seat, power front seat adjustment, driver’s variable cushion length adjustment, front-seat heaters, leather seat trim, four-spoke leather steering wheel with air conditioning controls, leather gearshift knob, stainless-steel Kluger scuff plates and six-disc CD changer with Bluetooth™ telephone compatibility*.

KX-R and KX-S have a 3.5-inch screen for the rear reversing camera.

Top-of the-range Kluger Grande has the added features of chromed front grille, clear treatment halogen headlamps and rear lamps, silver roof rails and power-operated tailgate.

It also has auto headlamps, Smart Entry and Smart Start, steering-wheel telephone and voice control, electro-chromatic rearview mirror, wood-pattern trim, tilt-and-slide moonroof, satellite navigation with eight-inch screen, AVN four-CD changer audio with Bluetooth™ telephone compatibility* and DVD rear-seat entertainment system.

*Bluetooth™ will only operate with telephones enabled with compatible Bluetooth™ wireless technology (HFP [Hands Free Profile] v1.0).

TWO-WHEEL DRIVE TO EXPAND KLUGER DEMAND

Toyota Kluger has added an extra dimension to customer demand with the addition of a two-wheel-drive variant.

Independent industry figures from VFACTS indicate that the Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) market continues to be buoyant in Australia.

Forecasts suggest this will continue as consumer preferences shift further towards the benefits available through the medium-size crossover SUVs.

Private and business buyers alike will be able to choose between all-wheel-drive and 2WD Kluger. This choice will give them an alternative purchase decision based on their real needs.

Many SUV buyers have no need for an all-terrain vehicle as they are choosing to move to an SUV as an upgrade from a large family car.

Private buyers will identify new Kluger as a vehicle of choice to suit their active lifestyles without compromising safety while offering versatility and the ability to carry up to six passengers.

Safety is perceived as an important reason to choose AWD over 2WD but with new Kluger all safety equipment, including Vehicle Stability Control, is standard across the entire range.

New Kluger will hold special appeal to Gen-X parents with young children who are moving away from compromise cars but do not see themselves as people-mover purchasers.

These buyers do not base their purchasing decision solely on the ability to go off-road but focus on the vehicle’s ability to cover all their needs - a larger vehicle, lifestyle appropriate, versatile and safe.

Fleet buyers present another opportunity for additional sales with the offer of a 2WD Kluger variant.

With 40 per cent of the workforce made up of Gen-Xers, the appeal of new Kluger to the novated lease market as well as small and medium business buyers will increase with the introduction of an entry-level 2WD.

New Kluger in 2WD is expected to take up 52 per cent of total Kluger sales so it represents a significant advantage to the range.

AGGRESSIVE PRICING ON NEW KLUGER

Toyota has adopted aggressive pricing for the new-generation Kluger medium SUV with recommended retail prices starting under $40,000.

Senior executive director sales and marketing Dave Buttner said customers in this segment expected a high level of standard features and a sub-$40,000 entry price.

“The new Kluger meets that customer requirement with a recommended retail price of $39,990* for the most affordable 2WD model,” Mr Buttner said.

“Considering the size, performance, space, versatility and specification of the new Kluger, that’s a truly remarkable price.

“For the first time, we can offer Kluger as a 2WD vehicle - a great alternative for the many buyers who seldom, if ever, venture off road.

“Customers can save money by opting for a 2WD Kluger even though it retains the strong looks and excellent ground clearance of the AWD versions.

“In fact, the only visible differences between the 2WD and AWD versions are an AWD badge - and the price tag.”

Mr Buttner said Kluger had the highest level of standard safety features in its class including seven airbags, reversing camera, stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes and hill-start assist control.

It has the most powerful naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine in its class with the 3.5-litre V6 producing 201kW with low fuel economy.

Other firsts for Toyota vehicles in Australia include active front-seat head restraints on all models and 19-inch wheels on the upper two grades.

The five-seat Kluger KX-R 2WD has a recommended retail price of $39,990*.

The seven-seat version adds $2500, which includes rear air conditioning and vents in all three rows.

Mid-range Kluger KX-S starts at $49,990* while the top-of-the-line Grande starts at $59,990. Both have seven seats.

AWD adds $4500 across the range.

Mr Buttner said the five-seat 2WD KX-R offered better value than its most direct rival despite a $2000 price difference.

“Kluger has five more airbags and a reversing camera. It also has more power, uses less fuel and has a five-speed auto compared with a four-speed,” he said.

“Other Kluger advantages include standard alloy wheels, cruise control and a cargo cover - plus a stowable centre seat in the second row.”

Mr Buttner said Kluger was wider and taller than the main rival - providing more comfort for passengers.

“Kluger benefits from extremely efficient packaging - especially in the engine bay - to offer great legroom, even for adult passengers in the third row,” he said.

“Another key advantage is that the interior flexibility of the Kluger’s seats is so convenient - one-touch levers that are quick and easy to operate.

“All up, we believe the Kluger is terrific value.”

Mr Buttner said the new Kluger would also provide owners with low cost of ownership.

“For the first time, buyers can opt for a two-wheel-drive model at a lower price compared with the all-wheel-drive,” he said.

“Engine power increases, yet fuel consumption is lower - saving owners time and money.

“We expect resale values will be high due to Kluger being a new model at the start of its lifecycle with high standard levels of specification.

“Service costs will also be lower for the vast majority of customers with the Toyota Advantage fixed-price service plan.”

KLUGER EXPECTED TO HAVE MOST COMPREHENSIVE STANDARD SAFETY PACKAGE IN CLASS

Toyota’s new Kluger is expected to have one of the most comprehensive standard safety packages in the medium SUV class at launch.

All Kluger’s passive safety features are fitted as standard equipment in all model grades.

This includes seven SRS airbags and the first use in a Toyota in Australia of active front-seat head restraints.

In addition, Kluger has raised the standard on pedestrian safety features.

The front of the vehicle has a package of pedestrian safety features designed to reduce the chance of injury to pedestrians in a collision.

The bonnet’s central reinforcement structure has been designed with longitudinal ribs to maximise its ability to absorb impacts.

Collapsible brackets for the front fender mounts also reduce the impact on a pedestrian in the event of a collision.

In addition, Kluger’s cowl and the front wall of the cowl louvre have been designed with an energy-absorbing structure.

Kluger’s comprehensive active safety package is also standard equipment, including a rear-view camera on every model.

Every Kluger model has Toyota AB-i, incorporating ABS anti-skid brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with steering assist, Traction Control (TRC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).

The three all-wheel-drive models have the additional standard feature of Downhill Assist Control (DAC).

Kluger’s electronic active safety features are coordinated by its Vehicle Control Management System (VCMS) - which is part of Toyota’s Driver Assist Technology (DAT) package.

KLUGER’S PASSIVE SAFETY PACKAGE INTRODUCES ACTIVE FRONT-SEAT HEAD RESTRAINTS

Kluger’s passive safety package includes seven SRS airbags and the first use in a Toyota vehicle in Australia of active front-seat head restraints.

The seven SRS airbags are dual-stage driver and front passenger SRS airbags, front-seat side airbags, driver’s SRS knee airbag and full-length side curtain shield airbags that cover all three rows of seats.

The SRS airbag sensor system has eight sensors: two front impact sensors, two centre-pillar sensors and two rear quarter sensors, as well as a driver’s seat position sensor and an airbag sensor assembly under the front centre console.

Kluger’s WIL (whiplash injury lessening) active front-seat head restraint system has an absorber at the base of the seat backrest, linked by cable to an upper unit which in turn activates the head restraint.

In a rear-end collision, the occupant’s body weight acts on the absorber pad.

The energy is transferred via the cable to the upper unit. The upper unit moves the whole head restraint closer to the occupant’s head, to reduce injury to the neck.

Kluger was designed to meet the world’s toughest passenger-car crash safety standards.

The passive safety foundation is its all-new, stronger body.

The body has omni-directional crash capability to protect occupants in front, rear and side-impact collisions.

In addition to the highly rigid body, reinforced cabin and seven SRS airbag package, Kluger has force-limiting front seatbelt pretensioners.

It also has a comprehensive package of energy-absorbing head-impact-protection measures in all four pillars and in the section where the B-pillar meets roof channel.

Kluger’s new side impact structure includes inner and outer beltline reinforcements and a side-impact outer pad in the front doors, and outer reinforcement in the rear doors to increase side impact protection.

In addition, Kluger has energy-absorbing pads in the door trim to suppress any impact forces from side impacts.

The door armrests have been designed with a crushable, grooved construction.

Kluger has height-adjustable head restraints in the first two rows of seats and three-point seatbelts for all seven seats, as well as front seat height-adjustable seatbelt upper anchorages.

It has anchorages for three child safety seats in the second-row seat.

KLUGER HAS INCREASED ACTIVE SAFETY AND DAT

Toyota’s new Kluger has a comprehensive active safety package as standard equipment on all grades.

Kluger’s new active safety package includes Vehicle Control Management System (VCMS).

VCMS is part of Toyota’s Driver Assist Technology (DAT) package.

It uses high-speed Control Area Network (CAN) computer technology to seamlessly combine previously separate active safety technologies.

The key technologies it combines include Electric Power Steering (EPS), AB-i incorporating ABS anti-skid brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), as well as Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC).

BA interprets a quick, hard push of the brake pedal as emergency braking and supplements the braking power applied if the driver has not pushed hard enough on the brake pedal.

In addition, all Kluger models have Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and the three all-wheel-drive models have Downhill Assist Control (DAC).

With HAC, it’s possible to hold Kluger on an incline without the brake on for a short time, and to start uphill without slipping backwards.

Equally, DAC makes it possible to come down a hill, under control, without touching the brakes because it applies brake force automatically.

Kluger’s increased active safety begins with the vehicle’s larger footprint on the road - a longer wheelbase and wider track - for increased surefootedness.

In addition, Kluger has a new brake package, with larger-diameter ventilated front discs, new twin-piston front calipers and larger-diameter rear brakes.

VSC is a skid-control function which provides optimal traction in cornering to complement the way in which ABS provides optimal traction and stability under braking, while TRC provides optimal stability under acceleration.

VSC dampens strong understeer (loss of front-wheel grip) or oversteer (loss of rear-wheel grip) to ensure vehicle stability.

The VCMS package also has a Cooperative Control function that allows the stability control system to interact with the electric power-assisted steering.

During relevant operating conditions, the Cooperative Control function can use the EPS to provide steering assistance to the driver.

The Cooperative Control function also works in conjunction with the ABS and TRC systems.

It can provide steering torque assist to maintain vehicle stability when braking or accelerating on slippery surfaces and is especially useful where the level of grip varies between the right and left-hand wheels.

Toyota developed VCMS as part of its philosophy which aims to provide the greatest possible range of active safety technology.

The VCMS allows the skid control ECU, engine ECU, EPS ECU and the main body ECU to interact.

The sensors used in the VCMS system include the wheel speed sensors for all four wheels, a throttle position sensor, steering angle sensor and a combined deceleration sensor.

The deceleration sensor can detect deceleration in both the longitudinal and lateral directions.

Kluger has a combined deceleration and yaw-rate sensor which, in addition to measuring lateral and longitudinal deceleration, can measure the angular velocity of the vehicle’s rotation around the perpendicular axis.

The VSC system can identify understeer by analysing the vehicle’s rate of yaw, which is a factor of the steering wheel angle and vehicle speed.

By analysing the actual vehicle speed and steering wheel input, the computer can identify the correct curve or line the vehicle should be travelling along, which is called the target yaw rate.

The yaw sensor on the other hand analyses the actual yaw rate or line of travel. If the actual yaw rate is different from the target rate, the VSC ECU recognises potential understeer and reacts accordingly, reducing throttle opening, engine revs and speed.

Depending on the degree of understeer, the system also applies the front brakes and inner rear brake in varying degrees to help turn the vehicle safely into the corner.

The steering torque control can operate in either of two ways in understeer.

It can apply steering torque assist to inform the driver of the front-wheel skid or it can prevent the driver from excessively turning the steering wheel.

In the second scenario, the steering assist increases the steering resistance to counter the driver’s (excessive) steering angle.

If the VSC system detects oversteer, it controls the engine output and (depending on the extent of the tendency) applies the brakes on the outside front and rear wheels.

This generates an inertial moment in the vehicle’s outward direction and helps dampen its tendency to oversteer.

The steering torque control can assist the recovery, if required, by providing counter-steer assistance to correct the rear-wheel skid.

The stability control function assumes priority over ABS and TRC.

Toyota designed VSC as a driver’s aid and a beeping noise is heard in the cabin when the VSC is activated.

The system works most dramatically and effectively in snow, but will also work in wet and dry conditions, too.

Kluger’s active safety equipment also includes key control switches on the steering wheel, centre high-mount LED stop lamp, large multi-reflector halogen headlamps, and front fog lamps (on KX-S and Grande models).

KLUGER HAS 201KW ENGINE AND INTELLIGENT TRANSMISSION

Toyota’s new Kluger has a 3.5-litre all-alloy Quad Cam V6 engine with dual variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i).

It is matched to a five-speed sequential-shift electronically controlled automatic transmission.

Two drivelines are available: two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

Kluger shares the advanced 2GR-FE V6 engine with Tarago V6 and the Australian-built Aurion.

It delivers 201kW of power at 6200rpm and 337Nm of torque at 4700rpm on 91 Research Octane Number (RON) unleaded petrol in Kluger.

Toyota developed dual-VVT-i technology to improve performance and fuel efficiency with lower emissions.

The 2GR-FE engine also has an intelligent electronic throttle (ETCS-i).

The Toyota dual-VVT-i system provides optimum inlet and exhaust valve timing across the range of engine operating conditions.

The dual-VVT-i system boosts torque in the low-to-medium and high engine speed ranges.

It also optimises the valve overlap period, according to engine and driving conditions, to increase cylinder filling at high rpm.

The 2GR-FE engine also has roller rockers, an electronic Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS), Direct Ignition System (DIS) and a lightweight cast-aluminium cylinder block.

Toyota designed the 60-degree V6 for a combination of high performance, fuel efficiency, package efficiency and reliability, coupled with minimal weight, noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) and low emissions.

The engine has an oversquare bore-and-stroke relationship of 94.0mm by 83.0mm for a swept capacity of 3456 cubic centimetres.

Compression ratio is 10.8:1 for optimum power and economy across the engine revolution range.

The 24-valve 2GR-FE engine has Siamese inlet ports to reduce the overall surface area of the port walls, wall wetting and hydrocarbon emissions.

The combustion pentroof chamber design is based on a narrow included valve angle to create a compact combustion chamber shape.

The cylinder head and piston crown design have taper-squish areas around the circumference of the combustion chamber and piston crown.

Toyota engineers have adopted roller rockers (with maintenance-free valve clearance adjusters) to reduce friction and optimise fuel economy.

The Toyota 2GR-FE engine has electronic control for the ACIS, based on information on engine revolutions and throttle position.

The ACIS varies the effective length of the inlet runners to make maximum use of the inlet pulsation effect for increased breathing efficiency.

It creates a long manifold effect to boost power in the medium engine speed range under high load.

At all other times it creates a short intake runner effect to boost output across the revolution range.

The stainless-steel exhaust manifold has a built-in three-way catalyst. This design accelerates the warm-up of the catalyst immediately after start-up, in turn reducing exhaust emissions.

Toyota has maximised reliability and serviceability by adopting chain camshaft drive, maintenance-free valve clearance adjusters, a replaceable element oil filter, direct ignition, electronic engine control and an air/fuel ratio sensor.

Kluger’s V6 2GR-FE engine has a service weight of 163kg.

Intelligent automatic transmission

New Kluger has five-speed intelligent automatic transmission with a sequential manual-style gear select shift.

A gear position indicator is included in the instrument cluster.

There are two transmission variants: U151E for the 2WD models and U151F for AWD models.

The electronic control unit for the Toyota U151 transmission can deduce if the vehicle is travelling up or down a hill and hold gears accordingly to provide better acceleration uphill and increased engine braking downhill.

It can also deduce - using information on vehicle speed, throttle opening angle and accelerator pedal angle - the optimal shift points to suit the manner of driving.

The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) will introduce torque converter lock-up earlier if the vehicle is cruising.

Features of Kluger’s transmission include a super-flow torque converter.

Toyota designers minimised lag and shift time in the U151 transmission, all with minimal shift shock.

The U151 transmission has high-precision hydraulics, advanced solenoid valves and new electronics, for maximum shift quality.

Kluger’s five-speed transmission has ratios of: 1st, 4.235; 2nd, 2.360; 3rd, 1.517; 4th, 1.047; 5th, 0.756 and reverse, 3.378.

It is matched to a 3.478:1 final drive ratio.

Dual-VVT-i operation

The dual-VVT-i system in Toyota Kluger’s 2GR-FE engine has four main operating scenarios:

Low engine temperature, engine start, idling or light load: inlet camshaft on full retard, exhaust camshaft on full advance.

This eliminates valve overlap and reduces the volume of exhaust gas blowback into the cylinder and inlet ports, providing stable combustion and improved fuel economy.

Medium load range: inlet timing is advanced and exhaust timing is retarded for increased overlap.

This creates two parallel effects: reduced pumping losses, leading to improved fuel economy, and increased internal exhaust gas recirculation to reduce oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons.

High load range, low-to-medium engine speed: inlet timing is advanced to close the intake valve earlier.

This reduces the volume of intake air blowback into the inlet ports and improves volumetric efficiency.

High load range, high engine speed: inlet timing retarded, exhaust timing advanced.

Retarding the inlet timing (according to the inertial force of the inlet air) improves volumetric efficiency and power.

The engine’s ECU controls camshaft advance and retard via an oil-control valve mounted on the cylinder head and vane-type actuators on the ends of the four camshafts.

KLUGER HAS TWO DRIVELINES

New Toyota Kluger has the choice of two drivelines: two-wheel drive and constant all-wheel drive.

The AWD system has a bevel-gear centre differential that provides a 50/50 torque split between the front and rear axles.

Traction Control (TRC) electronically controls torque distribution, eliminating the need for a viscous coupling.

The use of electronics instead of a mechanical system provides more precise and smoother traction, even when the throttle pedal is used aggressively.

KLUGER HAS EPS

New Toyota Kluger has road speed-sensitive electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering (EPS) for improved steering feel.

Kluger’s EPS can provide steering assist as part of the vehicle’s sophisticated stability control technology.

It is part of the Vehicle Control Management System (VCMS).

Toyota VCMS can provide steering assist control in understeer and oversteer situations, as well as when accelerating or braking where the level of grip varies between the right and left-hand wheels.

These capabilities are part of the VCMS’ cooperative control function technology that Toyota launched in RAV4 in February 2006 and has since been adopted as standard equipment on Tarago V6 and now Kluger.

In addition to its active safety role, EPS is the way of the future and makes for a more intuitive drive.

EPS can provide fuel savings depending on road conditions and driving style; the more straight-line driving, the greater the fuel saving.

EPS also reduces service costs and improves reliability and environmental friendliness by eliminating the need for a hydraulic pump, hydraulic pipes, vane pump, pulleys and belt, and power-steering fluid in the steering system.

EPS offers economy and environmental benefits.

The system, powered by an efficient direct-current electric motor, reduces engine load and fuel consumption, compared with hydraulic power assistance.

The electric motor only consumes energy when power assistance is required.

Electronic control of the power-assisted steering allows Toyota chassis engineers to tune the steering feel to individual market tastes.

Kluger’s steering column has manual tilt and telescopic adjustment.

All models have a turning circle of 11.8 metres.

KLUGER HAS LARGER BRAKES

The new Toyota Kluger has a larger brake package, for increased active safety.

Standard equipment includes upsized brake disc rotors as well as Active Braking with intelligence (AB-i), incorporating ABS (anti-skid brakes), Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).

In addition, Kluger has a larger footprint on the road than the model it supersedes for increased stability, a new chassis, revised suspension, and larger-diameter and wider tyres.

Kluger’s new front brake hardware is 328mm by 28mm ventilated discs with twin-piston calipers.

Superseded Kluger had 296mm by 28mm front discs with single-piston calipers.

At the rear, new Kluger has 309mm by 10mm discs instead of 288mm by 10mm discs on the superseded model.

KLUGER IS MORE ECONOMICAL

Toyota’s new Kluger has up to 10 per cent better fuel economy than the vehicle it supersedes, while offering increased safety, space and performance.

Kluger’s 3.5-litre dual-VVT-i engine has fuel economy of 11.0 litres/100km* for all 2WD models as well as AWD KX-R and KX-S models.

Kluger AWD Grande has fuel economy of 11.6 litres/100km*.

Superseded 3.3-litre Kluger had fuel economy of 12.3 litres/100km*.

*Fuel consumption will vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle conditions and options/accessories. Source of fuel consumption data: ADR81/01 combined.

KLUGER HAS FOUR-COIL ALL-INDEPENDENT SUSPENSION

Toyota Kluger’s suspension calibration was confirmed in local testing as Australia is the only major market for right-hand-drive Kluger.

High-grade KX-S and Grande have the added feature of 19-inch diameter wheels with 55-aspect-ratio tyres.

Kluger’s high body rigidity provides a stable platform for the suspension, in addition to its passive safety, noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) benefits.

Kluger has a coil-over suspension package with MacPherson struts all round.

It has wide-based L-shaped lower arms at the front and dual transverse links at the rear.

In addition to its new suspension hardware, Kluger has the added features of electric power-assisted steering and a full package of driver-assist technology (DAT) - including Vehicle Stability Control with steering assist and Traction Control.

Kluger’s suspension has a range of advanced features, including barrel-shaped springs to improve ride comfort and multi-leaf type linear control piston valves in the dampers.

The multi-leaf linear control valves enable the damper to generate more linear responses to correctional changes, thereby improving body control, road holding and steering feel.

In addition, Kluger has steering geometry where the kingpin axis is located ahead of the axle centre to optimise straight-line stability and steering feel.

The front hub bearings, knuckles and lower ball joints have been redesigned to increase rigidity and durability.

Kluger’s new rear damper units have an inner tube diameter of 35mm, compared with 32mm on the superseded model, to optimise suspension rigidity, durability and damper control.

Ball joints attach the front and rear stabiliser bars directly to the strut bodies, to reduce uncontrolled body roll.

KLUGER EXTERIOR: DYNAMIC STYLE WITH SUV STRENGTH

New Kluger’s bold and forceful styling meets future demands of Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) buyers, according to Toyota.

Toyota’s market research has indicated that SUV buyers attach value to many things inside and outside their vehicle but one of the most important is the ideal body size - not too big, not too small.

Toyota has built on the strengths of the current Kluger offering a forcefully styled SUV with increased interior space.

On the outside the strong styling cues with flared fenders over the front and rear wheel arches evoke the classic sturdiness of an SUV.

To accentuate this robust SUV stance Toyota has included 19-inch alloy wheels shod with 245/55R19 tyres on the KX-S and Grande models. KX-R has 17-inch alloy wheels with 245/65R17 tyres.

Graphic lines formed by the trailing edge of the totally new headlamp design connect with the wheel arch line and bond Kluger’s grille and bonnet area character to the vehicle’s profile.

The trapezoidal front grille reflects the Toyota SUV family identity with grilles in painted, smoked chrome or chrome finish - depending on the model variant.

Viewed from the rear, new Kluger’s wider track is obvious and gives the vehicle a solid on-road stance typical of an SUV.

All Kluger models now have a versatile two-piece tailgate with a top glass hatch that can be opened with, or separate from, the lower tailgate.

This glass hatch, together with Kluger’s new Smart Entry feature on the Grande model, enables owners to quickly load items into the vehicle without opening the tailgate itself.

Locating the rear wiper motor into the tailgate means the hatch only bears the weight of the wiper arm on the glass, making the hatch itself light and easy to use.

Headlamps and tail-lamps on new Kluger have been designed to accentuate the styling of the vehicle, with lines from both front and rear lamps extending down the vehicle sides.

Front turn signal lamps, headlights and clearance lamps are integrated into the combination headlamps.

Kluger tail-lamps use large inner lenses and three lens colours with a long white or smoke lens, depending on model, as a practical and distinctive reversing lamp.

Round reflectors fit neatly on the outer edges of Kluger’s new rear bumper.

Toyota’s styling engineers prioritised flexibility of use and design to express new Kluger’s crossover capability visually.

INTERIOR DESIGN COMPLEMENTS KLUGER LOOK

New Kluger provides the space sought after in a sports utility vehicle (SUV).

Kluger’s interior theme is a subtle two-tone design its designer describes as soft and elegant.

Space is maximised with a longer interior but controls for driver and passengers are still within easy reach.

To emphasise the central hub of controls the midpoint of the dashboard is raised slightly towards the occupants, making switchgear such as heater and audio controls easier to reach.

Larger switches and knobs with clearly recognisable symbols have been used to increase visibility.

Chrome plating has been used on the rings for the speedometer and tachometer, as well as the front console cup holders, air conditioning knobs and register levers to enhance the feeling of quality and provide areas of focal interest.

Kluger’s front passenger SRS airbag compartment is now no longer visible as the seam has been hidden to create smoother dashboard lines.

Touches of wood pattern trim are featured on some surfaces of Kluger Grande while KX-R and KX-S models have a silver finish on these surfaces, mainly in the centre console and door trim areas.

To enable the driver to make better use of the sequential gearshift function the gearshift gates and the gear lever are now laid out in a more contemporary pattern.

Storage bins and cup holders are distributed throughout the interior for easy access.

Storage compartments are found under the dashboard on both the passenger and driver’s side as well as in the large centre console.

Cup holders have been placed in the front and rear of the vehicle and a removable tray can be inserted into the space available when the second row centre seat is removed.

All models incorporate an innovative seat design in the second-row seats where the centre seat can be removed easily to provide two stylish captain-style seats with inner armrests.

For rear seat passengers in the seven-seat models, air conditioning controls are incorporated in the rear of the centre console.

Seating materials for Kluger include leather as standard in the Grande and KX-S, while KX-R has fabric trim.

KLUGER IS BIGGER AND MORE FLEXIBLE INSIDE

Toyota’s new Kluger has increased interior space and flexibility.

Its increased flexibility includes a glass hatch in the tailgate on all models, so the vehicle can be loaded and unloaded without opening the tailgate.

Kluger was designed to combine wagon versatility with passenger-car convenience and comfort feature levels, with up to seven-seat capacity and optimum useable luggage space.

Kluger maximises interior length within its overall length thanks to the package efficiency of its transverse V6 engine layout.

Clever packaging has given new Kluger significantly increased interior space over its predecessor.

New Kluger is 95mm longer overall and its wheelbase is 75mm longer than its predecessor, but smart packaging has delivered a 105mm increase in interior length.

The angle of the steering column has been adjusted, with provision for both tilt and telescopic column adjustment to allow drivers to tailor their driving position.

On selected models, the driver’s seat now has variable seat length adjustment.

Kluger’s overall width has been increased to 1910mm.

Kluger also has increased interior height to enhance seating posture, as well as an increase in the distance from the floor to hip point for the second and third-row seats.

The distance between the rocker panel and the seat has been reduced to allow for greater ease of getting in and out.

Glass hatch

All new Kluger models have a glass hatch in the tailgate for easy access to the rear luggage area.

The glass hatch was designed with a key drive to the rear wiper arm, so the wiper motor can be mounted to the metal tailgate.

In addition to the glass hatch, all Kluger models have a retractable tonneau cover to conceal cargo.

The tonneau cover can be locked in the half-open position to enable ease of luggage loading.

It can be stored in a dedicated space under the deck when not in use.

The rear deck board can be used as a luggage partition, by standing it on one end.

VERSATILITY THE KEY TO KLUGER

Toyota’s new-generation Kluger has the choice of five, six and seven-seat configurations, depending on model grade and the use of Kluger’s stowable centre seat.

Kluger KX-R has five-seat capacity as standard, with the option of seven-seat capacity.

Kluger KX-S and Grande have seven-seat capacity.

The stowable centre seat seamlessly converts the second-row seat from a three-person bench seat to two individual captain-style seats.

All Kluger seating positions have three-point seat belts and head restraints, including height-adjustable head restraints for the first and second-row seats.

Kluger’s new third-row seat has the added feature of fold-down head restraints, providing greater rear vision when the third-row seat is not occupied.

Toyota has increased the comfort of the second and third-row seats, with increased legroom and greater seat width.

Kluger’s versatility and convenience features include a 40:20:40 split second-row seat with sliding 120mm of fore/aft slide adjustment.

Access to the third row seat is by a one-touch tilt and slide walk-in function for the kerbside 40 per cent portion of the second-row seat.

Toyota has increased the slide range of the second-row seat to improve the walk-in feature.

The new second-row seat in Kluger KX-S and Grande models also has a one-touch, remote release in the luggage compartment - so it can be folded flat to deck height when not required.

Kluger’s third-row seat folds flat with the pull of a lever.

The head restraints fold forward with the pull of a strap - thereby allowing for easy storage of the seat.

The spare wheel is located under the rear of the vehicle to maximise interior space.

Kluger’s storage areas include:

• a large capacity glovebox with the opening latch positioned towards the centre of the vehicle, making it easier for the driver to open;

• a large centre console box that also acts as an armrest;

• a storage compartment in the lower part of the instrument panel on the driver’s side;

• a storage compartment on the lower part of the centre console on Kluger KX-R;

• storage compartments in the side wall of the console;

• two large cup holders next to the gear shift lever;

• two large cup holders in front of the centre console box;

• two large cup holders in the rear of the console box;

• front and rear door pockets;

• front seat-back pockets.

In addition, Kluger’s stowable centre seat can be replaced with a removable and stowable tray.

It stows under the centre console when not in use.

The tray has two cup holders and a storage compartment with two lids.

The inspiration for the stowable centre seat came from the Japanese zaisu, a so-called ‘legless chair’ that folds away to help achieve optimum use of space.

Inside the rear cabin area, Kluger has a tonneau cover for the luggage area.

There is a storage box behind the third-row seat to stow the tonneau cover when it is not in use - or other items when it is in use.

Five-seat KX-R has a large storage box in the rear-cabin floor (using the space the folding third-row seat occupies in other models).

KLUGER HAS THREE-ZONE CLIMATE CONTROL AIR CONDITIONING

New Kluger KX-S and Grande have factory-fitted three-zone air conditioning as standard equipment.

The system has temperature sensors front and rear.

It provides independent temperature control for the area around the driver’s seat and front passenger seat, and a separate climate control rear air conditioning system.

In addition to greater control of front seat climate, the system was designed to deliver significantly improved comfort for second- and third-row seat passengers.

The dual-zone front air conditioning system in Kluger KX-S and Grande has push-button controls and uses the multi-information display screen.

The rear climate control system has push-button controls and an LCD display.

Kluger KX-R five-seat has manual front air conditioning only.

The seven-seat KX-R model has the added feature of rear manual air conditioning with push-button and dial controls.

Both rear air conditioning systems have two face registers on either side of the roof, for both the second- and third-row seats, as well as a foot register in the right-hand quarter trim for third-seat passengers. There are also ducts under the front seats for second-row seat passengers.

Kluger’s air conditioning hardware is all new and designed to achieve significantly increased cooling capacity over the superseded model, while reducing engine load and fuel consumption.

Key features include an externally controlled variable-capacity compressor to improve driveability as well as increased cooling performance and fuel efficiency.

The air conditioning hardware also includes:

• a super-slim evaporator with a newly developed clean coating to reduce potential bad smells caused both by the build-up of bacteria and by matter from inside or outside the vehicle that builds up over time on the surface of the evaporator;

• an SFA (Straight Flow Aluminium)-II heater core for increased package efficiency and reduced weight;

• a multi-flow condenser for reduced weight and refrigerant volume;

• an anti-dust-type clean air filter to increase comfort.

ALL-NEW BODY STRUCTURE FOR KLUGER

Designers of new Kluger have paid particular attention to creating a rigid structure for the vehicle’s entire underbody to optimise safety and handling.

The new Kluger underbody features enlarged reinforcements in the kick panels and floor tunnel.

The inner part of the rocker panels is now pressed from ultra-high-tensile steel sheet and the bulkhead section of the rocker panels has been enlarged.

The new body design has, for the first time, a number two floor cross-member and a rear reinforcement member.

The roof structure has been reinforced with a reinforcement panel and a side impact bracket in models fitted with a moonroof to ensure optimum safety in the event of a side impact.

Kluger’s body has a comprehensive impact-absorbing structure for front, side and rear collisions.

The front impact-absorbing structure is designed to minimise cabin deformation by dissipating crash energy.

The side impact-absorbing structure includes a package of high-strength steel reinforcements for the pillars and rocker panels.

Kluger’s passive safety design strategy includes:

• a two-layer construction for the front pillar reinforcement;

• pressing the centre pillar and its reinforcement from high-tensile steel sheet;

• increasing the rigidity of the header joints;

• increasing the strength of the roof centre reinforcement and using a gusset to join it to the roof side-member;

• a two-layer construction for the roof rail reinforcements and the rocker panel reinforcements;

• an integrated structure for the centre reinforcement and rocker reinforcements;

• use of a closed-section front header for increased rigidity.

Kluger’s safety design also includes side impact beams in the doors and roof reinforcements.

The side impact beams have been positioned to efficiently distribute crash impact energy.

Kluger’s front and rear doors and door trims have energy-absorbing pads adjacent to the occupants’ hip points.

In addition to the safety design aspects, new Kluger has increased rigidity in the rear suspension tower installation parts, to enhance ride quality, control stability and reduce NVH.

The roof rigidity has been increased, by using reinforcing panels, to reduce interior noise levels.

KLUGER DESIGNED FOR LOW INTERIOR NOISE

The engineers who fine-tuned Toyota Kluger’s sound and vibration performance paid particular attention to its articulation index (AI) at cruising speed. The aim was to ensure that the front-seat passenger and third-row seat passenger can have a conversation.

Attention to noise reduction is evident throughout the vehicle, from the all-alloy V6 engine design to wind-noise reduction features.

Reduced wind noise was a key target, with new Kluger achieving a drag coefficient of 0.34.

The new body has a range of features designed to reduce wind noise, beginning with the design of the windscreen surrounds.

The wind noise reduction strategy also includes dampening material at the base of the front window glass, weather strips around the doors and on the B pillar, and optimal location of foamed material in the body frame sections of the front window/windscreen surrounds.

Additional NVH counter-measures include:

• adopting a bonnet seal around the four sides of the bonnet to reduce engine noise;

• adopting quarter liners for rear wheel housings to reduce road noise;

• optimal placement of sound-absorbing and sound-insulating material on the cabin floor to reduce engine and road noise.

New Kluger’s cabin floor area has high-rigidity-type dampening coatings to enhance noise reduction while minimising weight.

The latest-generation Toyota sound-dampening materials are biased towards sound absorption over sound insulation.

The Kluger cabin interior has a comprehensive package of sound-absorbing materials.

This package includes an inner dash silencer, door-trim silencers, pillar garnish silencers for the B and D pillars, side-deck trim silencer, the roof lining and roof silencer, and the floor carpet.

KLUGER CONFIRMS BODY ENGINEERING CREDENTIALS

New Kluger confirms the level of body structure design expertise across the entire Toyota group of companies.

Toyota has made body design one of its engineering fortes in the past two decades, amassing a huge bank of expertise in body engineering.

Its expertise means the body design can maximise body rigidity and safety, while meeting the strict weight targets and optimising performance and fuel economy.

Toyota has built its body safety engineering expertise on a combination of massive Computer-Aided Design capability and extensive crash testing of vehicles.

Toyota now conducts 1500 vehicle crash tests a year - an average of more than five per working day.

Hino Motors designed the new Kluger body.

Hino has body-engineered Toyota vehicles on a project basis for the past four decades.

Its recent body engineering projects for Toyota also include 4Runner and FJ Cruiser for the United States market.

SMART ENTRY AND START FOR KLUGER

All Kluger Grande models now have a Smart Entry and Start system that allow drivers to enter and exit the vehicle as well as start it without the use of the ignition key or transmitter button.

The system detects the key when it is within proximity of the vehicle.

This feature is especially useful when carrying items to the car.

All drivers need is one hand free to touch the inside of the front door handle and the door will open.

Alternatively, when drivers press the lock switch on the front door handle, the vehicle is automatically locked.

The tailgate can be opened when the driver stands in front of it and presses the release button on the tailgate.

Similarly the separate glass hatch on the tailgate can be opened by carrying the key near the hatch and pressing the glass hatch button on the tailgate.

When inside the Kluger Grande, depressing the brake pedal and pressing the dashboard-mounted start button will enable the engine to be started as long as the vehicle is in either park or neutral and the key is within range.

Pressing the start button when the engine is on will turn the engine off.

FLEXIBILITY THE KEY TO KLUGER INTERIOR APPOINTMENTS

Audio and entertainment

A six-speaker audio system is fitted throughout the Kluger range with KX-R models featuring an AM/FM radio with an MP3-compatible single CD player. KX-S has a similar system with a six-stacker CD player.

Grande’s system has a four-stacker CD player integrated with an AVN satellite navigation system.

Bluetooth™* phone compatibility is in the KX-S and Grande audio unit. With this feature hands-free mobile phone communication can be managed easily, enabling calls to be made and received hands-free via buttons on the audio controls.

The mobile phone can remain in a pocket or handbag.

Convenient switchgear located on the four-spoke steering wheel enables the driver to easily control audio functions and the multi-information display on KX-R.

Additional controls for air conditioning feature on KX-S, while Grande also has controls for telephone and voice-recognition functions.

Grande keeps backseat passengers entertained with a roof-mounted DVD system.

Multi-information display

All Kluger models have a multi-information display with a 3.5-inch colour screen that displays the view from the reversing camera, trip computer information and, on KX-S and Grande, incorporates climate control functions.

*Bluetooth™ will only operate with telephones enabled with compatible Bluetooth™ wireless technology (HFP [Hands Free Profile] v1.0).

KLUGER HAS OPTIMUM ENGINE SOUND QUALITY

Toyota’s new Kluger was designed to have a smooth and linear engine sound.

The sound and vibration development work for new Kluger concentrated on engine sound quality as well as low noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

The sound quality goals included reduced low-frequency rumbling noise, very low interior noise when the engine is idling, and eliminating peaks in engine sound.

The adoption of a dual-VVT-i engine helped Toyota engineers achieve the linear sound feel they sought, with the ability to vary exhaust valve timing as engine revolutions rise.

In addition, Kluger has new engine mount characteristics, with an active front engine mount and liquid-filled left and right engine mounts.

The intake resonator was modified during the vehicle’s development to refine its tuning.

TOYOTA GENUINE ACCESSORIES TO ENHANCE AND PROTECT KLUGER