2021 Toyota Kluger 2WD GX V6 Review and Navman Competition

It seems like only yesterday that we were winging our way down the freeway in a 2021 Kluger GX Hybrid, because, it was yesterday.

I remember driving a $72,000 Kluger Grande 10 years ago, thinking it was nice, but lacked personality. The 2021 Kluger isn’t exactly exciting, no, but it is comfy, reliable, and has oodles of space.

As you saw in our Hybrid review, the handsome metalwork is classy, yet understated. The cabin is refined and comfortable, with decent quality fittings. For a change, the plastic doesn’t look like it exploded like an overcooked microwaved pudding.

The biggest difference between this brawny, hairy-chested V6 and the frugal hybrid, is the absence of silent running at low speed. It would make cruising around dark streets at night, more of a challenge. But, that’s a story for another time.

Those who might understand that cryptic statement, will never tell.

Kluger GX V6 doesn’t have fancy 3 zone climate control, with 2 manual zones doing duty front and back instead. There are other little snips too, but it is the V6 and 8-speed automatic that are fabulous, even with the 2-wheel-drive continually chirping tyres.

Above: 2021 Kluger GX V6 2wd (WIN A NAVMAN DASHCAM by watching The Video BELOW – email answer to gaycarboys@outlook.com) finishes 31/10/2021

Above: WIN A NAVMAN DASHCAM by watching This Video (email answer to gaycarboys@outlook.com) finishes 31/10/2021

Above: Answer to the Navman question is in THIS VIDEO (email answer to gaycarboys@outlook.com) finishes 31/10/2021

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ABOVE: 2021 Toyota Kluger V6 

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Is the V6 Thirsty?

It would be, were it not for the 8-speed automatic. As it is, our test was around 9.5, which is a smidge above Toyota’s 8.9L/100k claim. At $47, 650, it is the cheapest of the Klugers. For just over 50k on the road, you can sprint to 100kph in 7.5 (hybrid 8.4) seconds, in comfort. Drive modes give the big SUV more oomph, but it is still no sports car, and that’s the way I like it. In short, the V6 trounces the Hybrid on performance, but not on fuel economy.

Is the ride as good as the Hybrid?

Suspension is shared across all models. The steering feels as light, and the extra power from the 218kw V6 makes Kluger perkier.

What about the handling?

Kluger is made for the American market, so is tuned more for big American roads, to driven by big Americans. Compared to their trucks, Kluger is a minnow, so handles better anyway. At least that’s their story.

Toyota has tried to manage body control with fancy electronics, but you sure do feel that tall, heavy, body in tight corners.

I took a couple of corners with more enthusiasm than I might normally have done. I can report that although Kluger was as soft as a 3-week-old kitten.

Is Kluger V6 Roadtrip-Worthy?

I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel like donning a huge pair of sunglasses to head for a school pickup. Now my nephew is in high school, he is far too cool to be collected, unless it is in a fire-breathing track car, or something electric. Kluger doesn’t cut the mustard on the teenage-boy front, so the school runs are now a thing of the past.

As for everything else, Kluger was first class. That subtlety and understated elegance worked brilliantly on the freeway. I’d happily sit for a thousand comfortable K’s, but the active cruise keeps interfering with the digital speedo, a common trait with Toyota. I do not ever want to have a warning in my multi-function display, of something that is directly in front of me. Just leave my digital speedo alone, S’il vous plaît.

How’s the space inside?

The first 2 rows are voluminous. The 3rd row should be put aside for puny punters. Adults back there would need to be origami experts. Nuff-said.

The 2rd row seats had the space of a ball room, and the comfort of a private lounge.

How’s the Sound System?

Considering GX is the pov-model, the sound is excellent CarPlay/Android Auto is wired, for now. It makes call and texts a bit less of a chore.

What’s the verdict?

Kluger isn’t cool, but it is extremely comfortable. The entry models are great value, and there is plenty of performance. It is aimed more at families than singles or couples, unless you fancy antiquing every weekend.

Price: $47,650 (AWD $51,650)

Engine: 3.5L V6

Power; 218kw/350Nm

Econ: 8.8/100k (8.9L/100k AWD)

Trans: 8-speed Auto

Fuel: 91Ron Petrol

Driveline: 2WD (Also AWD available)

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