The 2025 Toyota Kluger, Australia’s popular family SUV, has undergone a subtle yet significant update, bringing a mix of price adjustments and new features to the table. With price increases of up to $1490 across its range, Toyota has balanced these hikes with enhancements designed to elevate comfort, convenience, and safety for families and drivers alike. This article explores the details of the price changes, the new additions to the Kluger lineup, and why this SUV remains a strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV market.
Overview of the 2025 Toyota Kluger
The Toyota Kluger has long been a staple in the Australian automotive market, known for its reliability, spaciousness, and versatility. A favorite among families, the Kluger offers a blend of practicality and modern technology, making it ideal for both daily commutes and long road trips. The 2025 model year introduces refinements to the existing formula, with Toyota focusing on improving the driving experience while maintaining the vehicle’s core appeal. However, the price increase has sparked curiosity about whether the new features justify the higher cost.
The Kluger lineup continues to offer three main trim levels: GX, GXL, and Grande, available in both two-wheel-drive (2WD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations. Additionally, buyers can choose between petrol and hybrid powertrains, catering to a wide range of preferences. Let’s dive into the specifics of the price hikes and what’s new for 2025.
Price Adjustments Across the Range
The 2025 Kluger sees a price increase across all variants, with hikes ranging from $740 to $1490, depending on the model and drivetrain. Below is a breakdown of the updated pricing (indicative drive-away prices, based on Australian market estimates):
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Kluger GX 2WD Petrol: Starting at approximately $51,990, up $740 from the previous model.
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Kluger GX AWD Petrol: Around $56,490, a $990 increase.
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Kluger GX Hybrid AWD: Now $60,990, up $990.
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Kluger GXL 2WD Petrol: Priced at $61,490, reflecting a $1190 hike.
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Kluger GXL AWD Petrol: Approximately $65,990, up $1190.
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Kluger GXL Hybrid AWD: Around $70,490, a $1190 increase.
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Kluger Grande 2WD Petrol: Starting at $73,990, up $1490.
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Kluger Grande AWD Petrol: Around $78,490, also up $1490.
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Kluger Grande Hybrid AWD: Now $82,990, a $1490 increase.
These price adjustments reflect Toyota’s efforts to account for rising production costs, global supply chain challenges, and the addition of new features. While the hikes may raise eyebrows, the enhancements across the range aim to deliver added value, particularly for families seeking a reliable and feature-packed SUV.
New Features for 2025
Toyota has introduced several updates to the 2025 Kluger, focusing on technology, comfort, and safety. These additions aim to keep the Kluger competitive in a crowded market that includes rivals like the Mazda CX-9, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Kia Sorento. Here’s a closer look at what’s new:
1. Enhanced Infotainment System
All Kluger models now feature an upgraded infotainment system with a larger, more responsive touchscreen. The GX and GXL trims receive a 9-inch display, while the Grande boasts a 12.3-inch high-resolution screen. The updated system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration without the hassle of cables. Additionally, the interface has been refined for faster response times and improved user experience, making it easier to navigate menus, access apps, and control vehicle functions.
2. Advanced Safety Upgrades
Safety remains a cornerstone of the Kluger’s appeal, and the 2025 model builds on Toyota’s Safety Sense suite. All variants now include an enhanced pre-collision system with improved pedestrian and cyclist detection, particularly in low-light conditions. The adaptive cruise control system has been fine-tuned for smoother operation, offering better responsiveness in stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, the lane departure alert and lane-keeping assist systems have been upgraded for more precise steering interventions, enhancing driver confidence on long journeys.
The Grande trim takes safety a step further with a new 360-degree camera system, providing a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings. This feature is particularly useful for parking in tight spaces or navigating crowded urban environments.
3. Interior Comfort and Convenience
Toyota has made subtle but meaningful improvements to the Kluger’s interior. The GX and GXL trims now offer upgraded seat materials with better durability and comfort, while the Grande features premium leather upholstery with contrast stitching. All models come with tri-zone climate control as standard, ensuring passengers in all three rows stay comfortable. The second-row seats now include a one-touch slide function, making it easier to access the third row—a boon for families with young children.
The Grande trim also gains a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats, adding a touch of luxury to the top-tier model. These features are particularly appealing for buyers in colder climates or those who value premium comfort during long drives.
4. Hybrid Efficiency Improvements
The Kluger’s hybrid variants, which combine a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, have received minor tweaks to improve fuel efficiency. Toyota claims the 2025 hybrid models achieve up to 5.5L/100km in combined driving conditions, a slight improvement over the previous model. This makes the Kluger Hybrid an attractive option for eco-conscious buyers looking to reduce fuel costs without sacrificing performance.
5. Exterior Styling Updates
While the 2025 Kluger retains its bold, muscular design, Toyota has introduced subtle exterior enhancements. New alloy wheel designs are available across all trims, ranging from 18 inches on the GX to 20 inches on the Grande. The front grille has been slightly redesigned for a more aggressive look, and new color options, including a striking Midnight Blue Metallic, add fresh appeal to the lineup.
Balancing Cost and Value
The price hikes of up to $1490 may give some prospective buyers pause, but the added features help justify the increase. The upgraded infotainment system, enhanced safety technologies, and improved interior comfort make the 2025 Kluger a more compelling package. For families, the focus on practicality—such as easier third-row access and tri-zone climate control—ensures the Kluger remains a versatile choice for daily use and long trips.
The hybrid models, in particular, stand out for their improved fuel efficiency and lower running costs, which could offset the higher upfront cost over time. For buyers prioritizing luxury, the Grande trim’s premium features, like ventilated seats and the 360-degree camera, add a level of sophistication that rivals more expensive SUVs.
Competitive Landscape
The mid-size SUV market is fiercely competitive, and the 2025 Kluger faces strong challengers. The Mazda CX-9 offers a premium driving experience and sharp handling, while the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento boast bold designs and generous standard equipment. However, the Kluger’s reputation for reliability, strong resale value, and Toyota’s extensive dealer network give it an edge for buyers seeking long-term dependability.
The hybrid variants also position the Kluger as a forward-thinking option in a market increasingly focused on sustainability. With fuel prices remaining a concern for many Australian families, the Kluger Hybrid’s efficiency makes it a practical choice.
The 2025 Toyota Kluger strikes a balance between price increases and meaningful upgrades, ensuring it remains a top pick for families and SUV enthusiasts. The enhanced infotainment system, advanced safety features, and improved hybrid efficiency add value to an already well-rounded package. While the price hikes of up to $1490 may require buyers to stretch their budgets, the new features and Toyota’s reputation for quality make the Kluger a worthwhile investment.
For those in the market for a reliable, spacious, and feature-packed SUV, the 2025 Kluger delivers on multiple fronts. Whether you opt for the entry-level GX or the luxurious Grande, this updated model continues to embody Toyota’s commitment to practicality and innovation.