Toyota Australia plans a “significant” boost to its medium SUV sales with the next-generation Kluger, which will be offered with both two- and four-wheel-drive ‘down under’ for the first time.
Go deeper with GlobalData
The new Kluger – known as the Highlander in some other markets including the US – is due for an August launch in Australia.
“There has been strong desire for two-wheel drive models in the medium SUV market for several years now,” said Toyota Australia’s senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner.
“The introduction of a two-wheel-drive variant… will help meet this demand at an affordable price.”
The new-generation Kluger is longer and wider than its predecessor, with new styling and increased interior space and flexibility.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataThe Australian-specification engine is a quad-cam 3.5-litre dual VVT-i petrol V6, new to the Kluger and rated at about 200kW.
Only one other vehicle in the medium SUV segment offers the choice of two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, Toyota noted.
Since 2005 the medium SUV market’s current top seller has had a sales split of 55.6% for its two-wheel drive models and 44.4% for its four-wheel drives.
“We expect a similar level of demand for two-wheel-drive Kluger in addition to growing sales of the new all-wheel-drive models,” Buttner said.
“Toyota’s success has been based on meeting customer demand by carefully targeting the number and type of variants within a given model range. The inclusion of two-wheel-drive Kluger is very much part of that strategy.”
The 2WD Kluger will be offered as either a five-seat or seven-seat wagon.
“New Kluger’s larger dimensions allow more room for up to seven passengers who will appreciate a noticeably quieter interior and improved ride comfort,” Buttner added.
Standard safety features will include seven airbags, vehicle stability control with steering assist, traction control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist plus a reverse camera.
While 2WD versions of SUVs are popular in the US, especially in the largely snow-free ‘sun belt’ states, their success here in the UK has varied.
Toyota some years ago tried selling an entry-level 2WD Rav-4 but withdrew it after disappointing sales; Nissan has had more success with its 2WD X-Trail.
