Sir Gregory

Our new 2021 Kluger Hybrid Grande was delivered three days ago. Due to Sydney's lockdown we've had little opportunity to drive it other than essential trips for groceries.  Already we love the quiet, refined ride and have noticed the amazing fuel economy compared with our previous Kluger. We can't wait to get it out of Sydney on a long trip.

We researched the car thoroughly before buying, and knew many of the features available in the US versions (Highlander) had been dropped or turned off. Here's a list of things that went missing in the translation from Highlander to Kluger:

1. 12.3" infotainment screen
2. Digital rear-view mirror
3. Wireless phone charging
4. 4-way lumber support
5. Adjustable thigh support
6. Second row captains chairs
7. Ventilated 2nd-row seats
8. Remote start
9. Tyre pressure monitor 
10. Curve-adaptive headlights
11. Auto door locking/unlocking based on speed or gear position (P/D)
12. Reverse Autonomous Emergency Braking
13. Latest Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+

The Palisade Highlander was the other car on our short list. We test-drove both for more than an hour, and found the Hyundai superior in many ways, particularly interior room, and the lane centering assist was noticeably better than the Kluger. In the end we stayed with the devil we knew; we've had Klugers since 2004.

We bought through John Cadogan's broker service (autoexpert.com.au/) and saved on both delivery time and cost. 

This will probably be our last car as we approach the "departure lounge" of our lives. I'm already tracking mobility scooters. Fully electric of course! 😄