All-new 2023 Toyota Kluger introduced in Australia

KUALA LUMPUR: Toyota Australia has updated the Kluger SUV for the model year 2023. Currently limited to the Australian market, the car features an updated powertrain along with an improved information and safety package.

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Let’s get to know the facelifted Toyota Kluger in detail -

Powertrain: For the model year 2023, the Kluger SUV benefits from a more potent engine than before. Replacing the naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine is a new turbo unit borrowed from the Lexus NX. The new 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol mill generates a maximum power of 269 PS along with a peak torque of 420 Nm. Compared to the previously available engine, the new powertrain brings a 70 Nm hike in torque.

Transmission: The power pumped by the new Lexus mill is transmitted to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, offered in either front or all-wheel-drive layout.

Infotainment features: The base GX trim gets a bigger multi-information display, a 7-inch unit over the earlier 4.2-inch. The mid-spec GXL and top-spec Grande variants now get 12.3-inch displays over the earlier 8-inch units. The Grande transmission now also gets a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel.

In addition, the new Kluger SUV comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, improved voice recognition, and complimentary 12-month Toyota Connected Services.
The latter enables the user to see essential vehicle information (like fuel level, recent trip info, odometer reading, and last known vehicle info, along with selected remorse control functions) on the myToyota Connect mobile application.

Convenience features: The GX variant now gains an automatic dual-zone front and single-zone rear air-con system. The top-spec Kluger comes with a wireless smartphone charger.

Safety features: The car’s safety kit gets an Automatic Collision Notification system that automatically contacts a Toyota emergency call center when it detects an activated collision sensor and airbag. Also part of the new package is the Stolen Vehicle Tracking system that helps authorities recover a stolen car.

In Malaysia...

Though we don’t get the Kluger SUV here, we do get the 2.4-litre turbo petrol engine-powered Lexus NX 350 F Sport. Priced at RM 389,999, the car’s mill pumps out 275 hp and 430 Nm of torque. The drive is sent to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

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