Bold-new 2020 Toyota Kluger breaks cover

Toyota has unveiled the next-generation Kluger SUV with a bold, distinctive design and advances in safety, comfort, quality and reliability.

The world premiere of the fourth-generation Kluger at the New York International Auto Show reveals a dramatic new design direction for the seven-seat SUV.

A sculpted new shape, with chiselled lines and 60mm longer body, gives the all-new family-friendly Kluger more attitude with a stronger stance, including 20-inch wheels available for the first time in a Toyota.

Inside the three-row cabin, the design takes on a more premium ambience with softer padded surfaces and a more tailored appearance.

The extra body length contributes to a more flexible interior with added cargo space and an extra 30mm slide for the second row of seats, increasing legroom in the third row.

The cabin is also said to be quieter thanks to improved aerodynamic efficiency, while an available 12.3-inch touchscreen display is the largest in its class.

Underpinning the fresh design is the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-K) platform, which offers improved occupant protection through extensive use of high-strength steels that result in a stiffer structure.

Its inherent strength allows tuning for the front strut and rear multi-link suspension that enhances agility while providing a smoother and quieter ride.

Powering the new Kluger is a 220kW 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine equipped with Toyota’s D-4S injection system that combines direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors for optimum efficiency, power and emissions.

The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with both front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations available.

Toyota Safety Sense is standard across the range and includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, all-speed active cruise control, lane trace assist, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beam and road sign assist.

Blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert are available depending on the model grade. A reversing camera is standard.

Like the outgoing model, the new-generation Kluger will again be sourced from America. Timing for its Australian introduction has yet to be announced but expect an early 2020 launch.