Battle of the 7-seaters: toyota highlander vs. kluger – a close comparison

The Toyota Highlander and the Kluger, two esteemed SUVs from the Japanese automotive giant, have long captivated car enthusiasts. With their spacious interiors, impressive performance, and advanced safety features, these vehicles have become popular choices for families and adventure seekers alike. However, discerning buyers often face the dilemma of choosing between these two exceptional SUVs. This comprehensive blog post delves into a detailed comparison of the Toyota Highlander and the Kluger, examining their key attributes, performance capabilities, and overall value proposition to help you make an informed decision.

Exterior Design and Styling

The Toyota Highlander exudes a bold and muscular stance, with its sharp lines and pronounced grille. Its sleek profile and aerodynamic contours convey a sense of athleticism and agility. In contrast, the Kluger adopts a more refined and sophisticated design, featuring a sculpted body and elegant curves. Its chrome accents and panoramic sunroof add a touch of luxury and sophistication. Ultimately, the choice between these two SUVs’ exteriors boils down to personal preference and whether you seek a more rugged or urbane aesthetic.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Highlander and the Kluger offer ample interior space, providing ample room for passengers and cargo. The Highlander boasts a spacious cabin with three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight occupants. Its flexible seating arrangements allow for various configurations, making it ideal for families with multiple children. The Kluger, on the other hand, offers a more premium interior experience, featuring higher-quality materials and a more refined design. Its second and third rows have ample legroom and headroom, ensuring comfort even on extended journeys.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander and the Kluger offer a choice of powerful and efficient powertrains. The Highlander comes equipped with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offers optional all-wheel drive for enhanced traction in challenging conditions. The Kluger, on the other hand, features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It is also mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and offers optional all-wheel drive. In terms of handling, both SUVs provide a comfortable and composed ride, with well-tuned suspensions that absorb road imperfections effectively.

Safety Features and Technology

Safety is paramount for both the Toyota Highlander and the Kluger. They come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Highlander boasts the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system, which includes additional features such as adaptive cruise control and lane centering assist. The Kluger, on the other hand, features the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 system, which adds intersection support and emergency steering assist. In terms of infotainment, both SUVs offer user-friendly systems with large touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many buyers, especially in today’s environmentally conscious climate. The Toyota Highlander and the Kluger offer comparable fuel economy ratings. The Highlander has an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the Kluger has an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Both SUVs also offer hybrid variants, which provide significantly improved fuel efficiency. The Highlander Hybrid has an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Kluger Hybrid has an EPA-estimated 38 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Value Proposition and Pricing

When it comes to value proposition and pricing, the Toyota Highlander and the Kluger are closely matched. The Highlander starts at a slightly lower price point than the Kluger, but both SUVs offer a similar range of features and capabilities. The Highlander is known for its reliability and strong resale value, while the Kluger offers a more premium interior and a slightly more powerful engine. Ultimately, the best value proposition for you will depend on your individual needs, priorities, and budget.

Verdict: The Ultimate Choice

Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Kluger is a matter of personal preference and the specific criteria that matter most to you. If you prioritize space, versatility, and value, the Highlander is an excellent choice. However, if you seek a more refined interior, advanced safety features, and a slightly more powerful engine, the Kluger may be the better option. Both SUVs offer exceptional performance, comfort, and safety, making them top contenders in the midsize SUV segment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between the Toyota Highlander and the Kluger?

The Toyota Highlander and the Kluger are essentially the same vehicle, with the Kluger being the Australian market version of the Highlander. They share the same platform, powertrains, and many features, but there may be some minor variations in trim levels and specifications depending on the market.

2. Which SUV is more reliable?

Both the Toyota Highlander and the Kluger have a reputation for reliability. Toyota is known for producing vehicles with high quality standards and excellent durability.

3. Is the Kluger more expensive than the Highlander?

In general, the Kluger is slightly more expensive than the Highlander due to its more premium interior and additional features. However, pricing may vary depending on the specific trim level and options chosen.