A VESSEL FOR THE LONG CRUISE

Jam-packed with luxury items, the Kluger Grande sails along the freeway

— the centre console bin can fit a couple of twolitre bottles and there’s a lockable glovebox.

The suspension is built for comfort as well, soaking up most back-road hits with ease (there is a tendency to float over larger bumps) while the cabin is hushed and free from vibrations. The array of driver assistance features is as comprehensive as you’d expect of a family car in this price range. There are blind spot and lane departure warnings. There’s also a reverse cross traffic alert that helps when you’re backing out of driveways and carpark spots.

On the freeway, the Grande automatically keeps a safe distance to the car ahead. At lower speeds it will slam on the brakes to avoid or mitigate a crash. Recent engine revisions yield more power and a new eight-speed transmission delivers better fuel consumption on the open road. Engine noise is well muted and the gearshifts are smooth and swift. In town the Kluger is big, heavy, with a large turning circle, and thirsty — up around the mid-teens in heavy traffic. There’s no stop-start or cylinder cut-out and no diesel option — be prepared for frequent refilling. 9.3L/100km (thirsty-ish) Comfy, refined ,powerful but not very exciting. Low-price servicing, great resale value, practical cabin with loads of room. MAZDA CX-9 Azami, from $63,390 Not as spacious or quiet but cheaper, quicker and feels more assured on the open road. KIA SORENTO Platinum CRDi, from $58,490 Can’t match the Toyota for performance or comfort but more frugal thanks to diesel engine. it’s better value, too.