I drove the SL model last week, and even though I also like my SUV’s I have to say I really enjoyed the Camry.

The current model has been around for a while now and is starting to show its age a bit. However, it’s one of those cars that make you feel at home as soon as you sit in it.

Camry Hybrid is quiet and smooth to drive, comfortable to sit in and easy to live with.

Of course, the SL models comes well equipped with little luxuries like heated and cooled front seats, panoramic view monitor and roof and a heads-up display.

The main reason for the Camry popularity is the 2.5L petrol hybrid engine and its stunning fuel economy. It comes with front wheel drive and a simple 6 step CVT.

I had a mix of lots of city driving and motorway cruising and my overall economy figure was 5.5L/100k.  I could easily see myself getting over a thousand kilometres out of a tank of fuel.

So, it has reduced driving emissions and zero range anxiety.

The problem is that the Camry Hybrid is so popular that there currently is a pause on orders. This is due to global supply issues for little things like semi-conductors.

Funny how the little things can cause such big delays.

Overall, the Camry Hybrid stands firm against the continued swing to SUV’s.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THECAMRY HYBRID SL RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

Toyota Camry Hybrid SL Video Review

More Camry Hybrid SL Thoughts

• Even though the design has been around for a while it still looks good.
• The Camry SL comes packed with a heap of features for the price.
• Inside the front seats are comfortable and supportive
• Heated and cooled for comfort.
• Central screen is small by today’s standards.
• Apple CarPlay is great, but the screen functionality needs some work.
• Rear seats are a little flat and tight for leg room.
• Boot is long, not very deep and has a small opening.
• Engine is smooth and economical.
• It really doesn’t matter how you drive it; it never seems to get above 5.5l/100k.
• No inconvenience waiting for a charger when on a trip, no range anxiety
• Its easy to drive but the front wheel drive can be a but slippery in the wet.
• One thing that caught me by surprise is how low the front is. IT scraped over driveways and speed bumps. They required a level of caution that would prove annoying over a longer time.
• If I was brand conscious, I would feel like I was driving a taxi.
• Can’t order one now. Have to wait for the new model.

Also look at.

Sedans are a dwindling market unfortunately. The segment is dominated by the Toyota Camry Hybrid.

Other choices include, Mazda6 Atenza,  Honda Civic HEV LX,  Hyundai Sonata, Citroen C5-X, Peugeot 508 GT, Genesis G70, or the Audi A4.

Some other Camry Articles

• Next Generation Camry is all Hybrid
• Toyota Camry Hybrid SX 2022 Review
• Toyota Camry Ascent 2021 Review
• 2021 Toyota Camry SL Hybrid Sedan 2021 Review
• Toyota has unveiled a facelifted 2020 Camry
• 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid- Why the Hybrid is so good
• Blue Mountains road trip in 2018 Toyota Camry
• 2018 Toyota Camry Launch Review
• 2018 Toyota Camry Ascent Hybrid Review
• 2018 Toyota Camry SL V6 Review
• Toyota Camry Launch Review David Brown Reviews
• 2015 TOYOTA CAMRY – 22 consecutive years as Australia’s best-selling mid-size car
• 2012 Toyota Hybrid Camry
• 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Luxury Review

Toyota Camry Hybrid SL final thoughts

Camry is really starting to show its age, but its aged well in some areas not so much in others.

It’s a victim of its own popularity. The demand is so great that supply has been suspended currently because of component parts supply issues.

There is a reason the Camry Hybrid is popular. Its good value, genuinely economical, and comfortable to drive.

Pity it doesn’t come in an AWD wagon version.

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post We drive the 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid SL appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

Sean is a man that is passionate about the Auto industry in Australia, passionate about Toyota customers and the brand itself.

One of our favourite topics is the ever-changing world of alternative fuel sources.

Toyota has a philosophy that no one fuel source will solve every customer’s needs. A philosophy I agree with.

At their recent showcase, Toyota unveiled several different vehicles with different fuel sources. These included mild hybrid, full hybrid, EVs, and Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

Over the next 15 months or so we will see Toyota with a complete complement of vehicles that cover these fuel sources.

One topic we briefly touched on is the emergence of Bio Fuel as an alternative. It has a lot of promise, but not necessarily the flavour of the month with the politicians. However, the infrastructure is already there. The fuel is relatively easy to produce and has no or little exhaust emissions.

Over 24 years Toyota has probably done more for the environment than any other manufacturer with their National Tree Day. tree planting program. This year the aim is planting 1,000,000 trees. That, there listeners, does more for reducing CO2 than any electric car available.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE CHAT WITH SEAN RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Motoring Minute is also part of the Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Chat with Toyota about future vehicles appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

I spent a week in the RAV4 Cruiser AWD Hybrid, priced from $48,000 plus the usual costs.

You may be interested in reading the

• Toyota Rav 4 GXL AWD Hybrid 2021 Review
• Toyota RAV 4 Hybrid 2020 Radio Review

The Hybrid comes with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor generator that drives through a six step CVT.

TO LISTEN TO THE RAV4 HYBRID RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Opting for AWD adds a second electric motor on the rear axle bringing combined output to 163kW, while also adding Trail mode function that alters things to maximise traction in slippery conditions.

As you would expect the economy is outstanding and we averaged around 5.5L/100K on our test.

The RAV4 Cruiser also comes with three-stage front seat heating and ventilation, with eight-way power adjustment for the front seats.

Inside the Cruiser comes well equipped and is a quiet and comfortable place to be.

Its no surprise that Toyota sells a lot of RAV 4 Hybrids, they are easy to live with, economical, comfortable and practical. Pretty much everything a buyer will need.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.

*Towing and Off Road capability is measured relative to other vehicles in the class. It is not to be used as a measure against vehicles in other classes.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Our Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners and they are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast weekly through the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Toyota RAV 4 Hybrid AWD SUV 2022 Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

One drive and it’s easy to see why.

Toyota updated the Camry in April 2021 with enhanced safety features, bolder grill design, larger and more functional touchscreen, revised dash and connectivity.

Powered by the 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain that combines with twin electric generators that deliver a maximum 160kW.

TO LISTEN TO THE CAMRY HYBRID RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Driven just like a normal car the Camry also delivers outstanding fuel economy as we managed 5.0L/100K over the two weeks drove it.

Camry SX is the mid model in the range and comes with Sports suspension, sports front grille, 19-inch alloy wheels, High-grade LED headlights and taillights, Sports leather-accented seats, paddle shifters for e-CVT, Leather-trimmed centre console and door armrests

To me all electric cars make very limited sense, their limitations outweigh the benefits. However hybrids make a huge amount of sense.

They require no change to driver habits, have outstanding fuel economy, and no range anxiety.

Camry SX Hybrid is priced from $39.190 plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Also Look At

• Hyundai IONIQ
• Mazda 6
• Lexus is 300 h
• Peugeot 508 GT
• Skoda Superb
• Kia Stinger 200GT 

*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Our Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners and they are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast weekly through the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Toyota Camry Hybrid SX 2022 Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

Its well styled, not too big so it is easy to navigate our tight city streets and carparks, yet big enough for weekends away with friends if you like.

As an SUV you sit up higher and the body shape allows more luggage room than a sedan.

The RAV4 GXL Hybrid comes with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor generator that drives through a six step CVT.

As you would expect the economy is outstanding and we averaged around 5.0L/100K on our test.

TO LISTEN TO THE RAV4 GXL Hybrid RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

The RAV4 GXL also comes with LED projecta headlights, LED foglights, Digital radio, illuminated door switches, rear seat reminder and LED interior lights.

Its no surprise that Toyota sells a lot of RAV4 Hybrids, they are easy to live with, economical, comfortable and practical. Pretty much everything a buyer will need.

Is the RAV4 GXL 2WD Hybrid the perfect urban SUV. Well that’s a big call but it’s pretty good.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Other RAV4 Articles

• 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Cruiser AWD SUV 2022 Motoring Minute Review
• 2021 Toyota Rav4 GXL AWD Hybrid 2021 Review
• 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2020 Radio Review
• Toyota RAV4 Edge AWD SUV 2020 Radio Review
• 2019 Toyota RAV4 Edge AWD SUV 2019 Review
• 2016 Toyota RAV4 AWD Cruiser Petrol Review

*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.

Motoring Minutes are heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Our Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners and they are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast through the Community Radio Network across Australia.

More RAV4 GXL Hybrid Details

Toyota RAV4 has been perennially popular and the latest minor update that arrives early in 2022 keeps the model relevant.

What is the RAV4 GXL Hybrid like outside?

It’s a relatively stylish exterior with the following highlights:

• Auto LED headlights, taillights and daytime running lights,
• Front fog lamps,
• Heated and folding electric exterior mirrors,
• Automatic rain-sensing windscreen wipers,
• Rear window wiper,
• 18-inch alloy wheels with 17-inch temporary spare,
• Front and Rear mudflaps,
• Dual oval tailpipes,
• Hatch-top spoiler, Shark-fin antenna, Roof rails,
• Privacy glass

How about inside the RAV4 GXL Hybrid?

Inside the RAV4 is spacious, comfortable and reasonably well appointed.

Highlights include:

• Premium embossed fabric seats,
• Leather-accented steering wheel with steering wheel controls,
• Twin dial driver instruments with 4.2-inch Multi-Info Display and Hybrid-specific indicator,
• Leather-accented shift lever,
• Auto-dimming rear view mirror,
• Dual zone climate control with rear vents,
• Front and rear power windows,
• Qi wireless phone charger
• Remote locking/unlocking and Keyless smart entry and start (Hybrid only)
• 60/40-split, folding rear seat back,
• Rear armrest with integrated cupholders,
• Two-level reversible (carpet one side/resin other) boot deck board (Not available with full-size spare wheel option),
• Reasonable storage with central arm rest, sunglass storage, cup holders, front and rear door bins with bottle holders

Infotainment technology and communications

• 8-inch touchscreen display,
• 12V and one Aux input,
• Three front and two rear USB sockets (inc four fast charging)
• AM/FM/DAB+ radio with six speakers,
• Bluetooth® connectivity,
• Satellite navigation with SUNA Live Traffic,
• Voice recognition,
• Siri® “eyes-free” (compatible iPhones®) and
• Toyota Link

RAV4 GXL Hybrid engine and drivetrain

The hybrid system combines a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor generator that drives through a CVT, providing the most powerful drivetrain in the range with combined maximum outputs of 160kW for 2WD variants and 163kW for AWD versions.

Other features include:

• Independent front MacPherson strut and multilink rear suspension,
• Drive Mode Select – Eco/Normal/Sport,
• EV Mode (Hybrid only),
• Rack-assisted electric power steering,
• Ventilated front and solid rear disc brakes and
• Electric parking brake

RAV4 GXL Hybrid safety features

RAV4 offers particularly good safety with the standard Toyota Safety Sense suite of features,

Toyota Safety Sense including;

• Pre-collision safety system (AEB) with day/night pedestrian and day cyclist detection,
• All-speed active cruise control (CVT),
• High-speed active cruise control (MT)
• Lane trace assist with steering assist and lane centring function (CVT)
• Lane departure alert with steering assist (MT)
• Road sign assist (speed sign only) and
• Auto high beam

Other safety features include: Seven airbags, front and rear parking sensors, blind spot monitor, rear-cross traffic alert, reversing camera with guidelines, Hill-start assist with Brake hold, ISOFIX child restraint anchors for two rear seats and ABS with vehicle stability control and active cornering assist, further add to the new RAV4’s impressive safety credentials.

Toyota RAV4 GXL Hybrid final thoughts

Like a lot of Toyota vehicles the RAV4 does very little wrong. It fits the criteria of lots of room inside for minimised exterior footprint.

It looks stylish and has held its style well. The lower spec hybrids offer good value and outstanding economy in a comfortable package.

Personally I would take the AWD version though for a touch added safety.

It no wonder Toyota sells a heap of RAV4 SUVs.

The post Toyota RAV4 Hybrid GXL 2WD SUV 2022 Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

Hybrids work well for SUVs as they combine the benefits of excellent fuel economy with no range anxiety.

The hybrid system is available in all three GX, GXL and Grande grades in combination with the e-Four electric all-wheel drive (AWD) system. We have previously driven the Grande and this week we drove the entry GX model.

Its comfortable and spacious inside, especially for the front two rows, has cavernous storage areas, and particularly good leg room for middle row passengers.

TO LISTEN TO THE KLUGER GX HYBRID RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

The GX comes with fabric seats, LED headlights, three zone climate A/C, 8 inch central infotainment screen, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity

The hybrid system delivers a combined maximum power of 184kW through a smooth electric continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) that offers driver selectable NORMAL, ECO and SPORT modes.

Hybrid AWD models are also fitted with a Trail mode switch for more demanding off-road performance.

Economy is claimed to be 5.6l/100k and we weren’t too far off that on test.

Priced from $54,150 plus the usual costs it’s a well-equipped, comfortable and spacious SUV for the family

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Also Look At

• Kia Sorento PHEV
• Haval H6 Hybrid
• Land Rover Discovery Sport PHEV
• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
• Peugeot 3008 PHEV

Some Other Toyota Kluger Articles

• 1- Toyota Kluger Grande Hybrid AWD SUV 2022 Motoring Minute Review
• 2 – Toyota Kluger is all new and includes a Hybrid
• 3 – Toyota Kluger GX Hybrid AWD 2021 Review
• 4 – Toyota Kluger all new 2021 4th generation
• 5 – Toyota’s all-new Kluger large SUV has arrived in Australia
• 6 – Toyota’s all-new Hybrid Kluger large SUV has arrived in Australia
• 7 – Toyota Kluger GX Radio Review
• 8 – Hybrid Power Features In Next-Generation Toyota Kluger
• 9 – 2018 Toyota Kluger GX AWD SUV Review
• 10 – Toyota Kluger AWD SUV Video Review
• 11 – Toyota Kluger Grande 3.5L V6 Review

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

 Motoring Minutes are heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Our Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners and they are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast through the Community Radio Network across Australia.

Some more Kluger hybrid GX notes

We have reviewed the Kluger a number of times and continue to be impressed with just how much internal space they seem to have.

Even as a base model the seats were comfortable, everything is well laid out and visibility relatively good. Middle row seats are spacious, and third row acceptable.

Internal storage is a feature, the dash has little convenient trays and the central console bin is huge.

Lights and windscreen washers are good as well

Toyota need a technology upgrade though, their infotainment systems seem a little old now, even though they have been updated.

The latest model is not bad looking. Alloy wheels and 18 inch tyres on a base model are good value

Kluger is a natural candidate for the hybrid engine. It allows SUV space and practicality with the excellent hybrid economy.

Think of the AWD capability as more a safety feature rather than allowing anything more adventurous than the gravel driveway on a weekend away or trips to the snow.

The new platform and multi-link suspension provide a smooth and comfortable ride, with reasonable handling. It does a fair job of soaking up the suburban goat tracks we call roads in Sydney.

Being the base model there are obviously things missing like electric seats and leather, that’s why upper spec models sell more as people want those things.

Overall though the Kluger doesn’t do a lot wrong and it does a lot right, that’s why they sell so many of them? Toyota has a premium price though and other cars like a Kia Sorento offer more value in lower spec models.

Kluger Hybrid Engine more details

The hybrid system is available in all three GX, GXL and Grande grades in combination with the e-Four electric all-wheel drive (AWD) system.

It combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with three electric motor generators – two at the front and one in the rear – and a large Ni-MH hybrid battery to provide seamless performance and traction in all road conditions.

Under the bonnet, the petrol engine generates a maximum power of 142kW at 6000rpm and peak torque of 242Nm at 4400rpm.

With a long stroke and high 14:1 compression ratio, the Atkinson cycle petrol engine is designed for high thermal and fuel efficiency.

The latest D-4S fuel injection system that combines both direct and port injection, and electric variable valve timing (VVT-iE) on the intake and variable valve timing (VVT-i) on the exhaust ports, further enhance efficiency enabling a combined cycle fuel consumption as low as 5.6l/100km¹.

Transmission

The hybrid system delivers a combined maximum power of 184kW through a smooth electric continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) that offers driver selectable NORMAL, ECO and SPORT modes.

In SPORT mode, the Kluger’s AWD Integrated Management (AIM) system automatically adjusts throttle control, transmission shift schedule, drive force distribution and electric steering assistance to provide a more dynamic drive experience while ECO mode modifies throttle control and the transmission shift schedule for improved fuel efficiency.

The e-Four AWD system uses a 40kW/121Nm electric motor generator mounted in a rear transaxle to provide additional drive force to the rear wheels in slippery or off-road conditions.

Controlled by the AIM system, drive force can be varied between the front and rear axles depending on conditions and driver behaviour with a torque split front to rear of between 100:0 and 20:80 with an instantaneous readout able to be displayed on the MID in the instrument cluster.

Hybrid AWD models are also fitted with a Trail mode switch for more demanding off-road performance that is able to adjust throttle control, shift schedule, drive force distribution and brake control to deliver optimal traction for the conditions.

The post Toyota Kluger GX Hybrid 2022 Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

I spent a week in the RAV4 Cruiser AWD Hybrid, priced from $48,000 plus the usual costs.

You may be interested in reading the

• Toyota Rav 4 GXL AWD Hybrid 2021 Review
• Toyota RAV 4 Hybrid 2020 Radio Review

The Hybrid comes with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor generator that drives through a six step CVT.

TO LISTEN TO THE RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Opting for AWD adds a second electric motor on the rear axle bringing combined output to 163kW, while also adding Trail mode function that alters things to maximise traction in slippery conditions.

As you would expect the economy is outstanding and we averaged around 5.5L/100K on our test.

The RAV4 Cruiser also comes with three-stage front seat heating and ventilation, with eight-way power adjustment for the front seats.

Inside the Cruiser comes well equipped and is a quiet and comfortable place to be.

Its no surprise that Toyota sells a lot of RAV 4 Hybrids, they are easy to live with, economical, comfortable and practical. Pretty much everything a buyer will need.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.

*Towing and Off Road capability is measured relative to other vehicles in the class. It is not to be used as a measure against vehicles in other classes.

Motoring Minutes are heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 150,000 listeners. That’s over 750,000 listeners a week.

Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast through the Community Radio Network across Australia.

Motoring Minutes are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia

The post Toyota RAV 4 Hybrid Cruiser AWD SUV 2022 Motoring Minute Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

Outside:

Off-roading Side steps have off-roading aspirations, but the wheels are too small.

The 4-door, 2-box SUV is a much calmer design than Toyota models.There are restrained and ccharacter lines that play with the light.

Kluger is designed for the American market, so the look has to appeal there if is going to be a sales success.

LED headlights are fully automatic, as are the wipers, but the LED arrays might have been slightly more daring

The tailgate is manual, accessing fairly small cargo hold with all 7 seats up. You’ll probably leave the 3^rd row folded, making the boot more usable.

All Klugers have smart entry and start, as they should for this price.

The looks remind me of the previous generation Rav4. Nonetheless, it looks and feels of good quality.

Inside:

The cabin quality and design, like the exterior, feels much improved over the old model.

The fbric-covered seats are very comfortable in the 1^st and 2^nd rows, with good support nd ample adjustment. The 3^rd row is for kids, or microscopic adults. Rear seat passengers have enough space to really stretch out, the longer the trip the better. There is 3 zone of climate control with abundant vents for all rows of travellers.

There is no seat heating/cooling, but you don’t expect that on a base model SUV. Plastic is good quality, and the non-reflective surfaces won’t blind you in the afternoon sun. The dash and doors are soft touch, with the dash being deeply contoured with cubby trays within the folds.

Although the cabin feels spacious and dignified, the seat covering is cheapish woven synthetic.

Switches are well placed, and the laid out makes use easy. The active-cruise controls on the right of the steering wheel, and audio on the left. The Driver’s multi-function display menu is also controlled from the wheel.

The centre console has further controls for drive modes, including “Trail”, and EV mode, which gives a quiet low-speed experience. You can glide through underground carparks in complete silance. At high speed, the system charges the battery, as well as when braking or cruising. Not a skerrick of energy is wasted.

There is a mid-size centre bin, a couple of cup holders, and 5 USB ports (3 front, 2 rear), with one connecting to CarPlay/Android auto. The infotainment system has an 8” screen with a row of fixed buttons either side.. I’d like a couple of extra pixels though. The resolution can seem a bit low-rent, especially when you spark up the reversing camera.

The ambiance is rather Zen, and I’d be happy to spend a long time in Kluger.

On the Road:

Hybrids are great around town. You don’t plug them in because the batteries are recharged while on the move.

Suspension is MacPherson Struts up front, and multilinks around the back. The soft, smooth, ride is tuned plushness rather than sportiness. That’s fine by me. Kluger isn’t a sport car, it just gets on with it. You just need to respect the 2045kg when cornering.

A drivetrain suits an CVT automatic. In fact most drivers won’t notice the gear-less system. The longer I drove Kluger, the more relaxed I got. To my surprise, my ride in the 2^nd row seat made me rather regal.

Safety and driver aids include:

smart AEB, collision avoidance with steering assist.  lane centering

When the Cruise radar spots a car in front, it brings up a warning where your digital speedo was, which can be annoying.

The sound system is excellent, and although already well rounded, the sound needed a bass boost.

Despite Covid, our test took in some corners and bends, stretches of freeway, and tight city lanes. You’re aware of the size of Kluger, especially in tight spots. There is a reversing camera, with sensors all round, so parking is easy. But she isn’t exactly a spritely lass, so take your time in traffic.

The AWD gives quite a lot of grip, but sports mode will give the front wheels a pleasing chirp at the lights.

At all speeds, there cabin was quiet and calm, and even in the heaviest traffic, you feel relaxed.

Conclusion:

We liked it a lot. Kluger is good quality inside and out. GX is the base model, and apart from the seat coverings, everything looked and felt like the “luxury” fairy had waved her wand over it.

You have to keep reminding yourself you’re not driving a limo, such is the smooth ride.

• Price: $54,150 (GX Hybrid) MLP*
• Engine: 2.5L Hybrid
• Power; 142kw/242Nm
• Econ: 5.6L/100k
• Trans: CVT
• Fuel: 95Ron Petrol
• Driveline: AWD

 *MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means recommended drive away price including all dealer costs.

The post Toyota Kluger GX Hybrid AWD 2021 Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.