If you’re in the market for a family-friendly 7-seat SUV, the Toyota Kluger Hybrid 2025 might already be on your radar. Toyota has a strong reputation for building reliable, practical vehicles, and the Kluger Hybrid promises to deliver that same dependability with a modern hybrid twist. But with strong competitors like the Hyundai Santa Fe Elite entering the scene, does the Kluger still hold its own in 2025? In this detailed review, we’ll dive into its design, features, performance, and more to see if it’s the right choice for your family—or if it’s starting to lag behind its rivals.

I’ve spent a week testing the mid-spec GXL grade of the Toyota Kluger Hybrid, and I’m here to share my honest thoughts. As a car review expert with years of experience analyzing SUVs, I’ll break down what makes this vehicle shine and where it might fall short. Let’s get started!

Overview of the Toyota Kluger Hybrid 2025

The Toyota Kluger Hybrid isn’t a brand-new model for 2025—there are no major design updates or groundbreaking changes this year. However, its familiar look, solid specs, and hybrid efficiency have kept it a popular pick for families. Available in three grades (all with all-wheel drive and the same hybrid powertrain), the Kluger aims to balance practicality, comfort, and affordability.

Our test model, the GXL grade, sits in the middle of the lineup. Priced competitively against rivals like the Hyundai Santa Fe Elite and Kia Sorento GT-Line (both all-wheel drive hybrids), it offers a decent mix of features for the money. But while the Kluger GXL brings a lot to the table, it doesn’t always match the plush interiors or high-tech goodies of its competitors. So, how does it stack up? Let’s explore.

Exterior Design: Sleek and Timeless

First impressions matter, and the Toyota Kluger Hybrid doesn’t disappoint. It’s a big SUV—only 2.4 cm shorter than its rugged cousin, the Toyota Prado—but it doesn’t feel bulky or outdated. The design is all about long, smooth lines and gentle curves, giving it a sleek, handsome look rather than a tough, off-road vibe. Even without updates for 2025, the Kluger still feels fresh and relevant on the road.

Its size and decent ground clearance make it a true SUV, perfect for families who need space without sacrificing style. Whether parked in your driveway or cruising through the city, the Kluger looks sharp and modern—proof that Toyota’s “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach still works.

How It Compares

Compared to the Hyundai Santa Fe, which got a bold redesign recently, the Kluger’s design is more understated. The Santa Fe leans into a boxier, futuristic style, while the Kluger keeps things classic and elegant. If you prefer a subtle, timeless look over flashy trends, the Kluger wins here.

Interior: Comfort Meets Practicality

Step inside the Kluger GXL Hybrid, and you’ll find a cabin that’s both welcoming and functional. The synthetic leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and interesting dashboard design create a pleasant space for long drives. It’s not the most luxurious interior in its class, but it’s far from basic.

Front Row: Spacious and Adjustable

The front seats are a highlight. They’re well-padded, comfortable, and come with heating and electric adjustments (including lumbar support for the driver). Getting in and out is easy thanks to wide door openings and seats that aren’t perched too high. Storage is plentiful too—there’s a deep center console, two dash shelves, a large glove box, and handy cubbies. Small items might slip into the phone slot at the bottom, but overall, it’s above average for practicality.

Charging options are solid: two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, and two 12-volt sockets. However, there’s no wireless charging pad, which feels like a miss in 2025.

Middle Row: Family-Friendly Space

The middle row is where the Kluger shines for families. It offers plenty of headroom and legroom, and the flat floor (no transmission tunnel) gives the middle passenger extra space. My kid had no trouble hopping in and out, and he loved having his own climate control zone. You also get two USB-C ports, directional air vents, reading lights, four drink holders, and a fold-down armrest.

For parents, the middle row has two ISOFIX mounts and three top-tether points, making it easy to fit three child seats side by side. Even with a rear-facing child seat installed, the front passenger still has plenty of room—a big plus for growing families.

Third Row: Decent but Limited

The third row is wide enough for two adults on short trips, though anyone taller than 5’6” (168 cm) might feel cramped. Amenities are basic—just air vents and cup holders—and there are no top-tether points, limiting you to three child seats total in the vehicle. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting if you have a large family.

Cargo Space: Versatile and Generous

With all seven seats up, you get 241 liters of cargo space—enough for groceries or school bags. Fold the third row, and it jumps to 552 liters, with a flat loading area that’s perfect for bigger items. There’s also underfloor storage, a full-size spare tire, and a power tailgate, making it a practical hauler.

Tech Highlights

The 12.3-inch touchscreen is a standout. It’s clear, responsive, and supports wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay (after an initial cable connection). Built-in satellite navigation is a nice touch too. Physical buttons, dials, and a traditional gear shifter keep things user-friendly, blending modern tech with classic simplicity.

Performance: Hybrid Power That Packs a Punch

Under the hood, all Kluger grades share a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It delivers 184 kW of power and 242 Nm of torque—numbers that might not sound thrilling on paper. But on the road, this SUV surprises.

Driving Experience

The Kluger feels smooth and capable, even with its massive size. It’s got enough power for overtaking or climbing hills, and the hybrid system keeps it efficient without sacrificing performance. The steering is light, and an 11.4-meter turning circle makes it easy to maneuver in tight spots—perfect for school runs or city parking.

Fuel economy is a major win. Toyota claims 5.6 liters per 100 km, but I averaged 5.8 liters per 100 km on mostly open-road trips (where hybrids are less efficient). With a 65-liter tank, you could theoretically go 1,160 km on a single fill-up—impressive for a family SUV this big.

Ride and Handling

The suspension smooths out bumps without feeling floaty, and road noise is minimal. You can chat with third-row passengers without shouting, making it ideal for long journeys. Visibility is good too, thanks to wide windows and slim pillars (except the B-pillar, which requires extra blind-spot checks).

Safety: Strong but Not Perfect

The Kluger Hybrid earned a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2021, scoring well across all categories. It comes with seven airbags (including third-row curtain airbags), blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The reversing camera and front/rear parking sensors make parking a breeze, though a 360-degree camera would’ve been a nice upgrade.

However, it misses some family-focused safety features like pedestrian assist or a child-present alert, and the adaptive cruise control could be smoother. For full safety specs, check my detailed review on CarsGuide.com.

Ownership Costs: Affordable and Reliable

Toyota offers a 5-year unlimited-kilometer warranty, extendable to 7 years with on-time servicing at a Toyota center. The 5-year capped-price servicing program keeps costs low at $285 per visit, with intervals of 12 months or 15,000 km. Compared to the Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento, the Kluger’s ownership costs are competitive and predictable.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Spacious and comfortable interior for seven passengers
• Excellent fuel economy (5.6-5.8 L/100 km)
• Smooth, capable hybrid powertrain
• Easy to drive and park despite its size
• Affordable servicing and strong warranty

Cons

• No wireless charging or 360-degree camera
• Third row lacks child seat anchors
• Misses some advanced safety features
• Design hasn’t been updated for 2025

Toyota Kluger vs. Hyundai Santa Fe: The Showdown

The Hyundai Santa Fe Elite Hybrid is a tough rival. It boasts a fresher design, a plusher interior, and more high-tech features like a wireless charger and advanced safety tech. However, it’s pricier and less fuel-efficient than the Kluger. The Kia Sorento GT-Line, meanwhile, comes in just one high-spec trim, making it less flexible than the Kluger’s three-grade lineup.

If you want cutting-edge style and gadgets, the Santa Fe might edge out the Kluger. But for reliability, fuel savings, and a proven family formula, the Kluger holds its ground.

Final Verdict: Is the Kluger Hybrid Worth It?

After a week with the Toyota Kluger Hybrid GXL, I’m impressed. It’s not the flashiest or most advanced 7-seat SUV, but it nails the basics: space, comfort, efficiency, and ease of use. Families will love its roomy interior, low running costs, and smooth driving experience. While it doesn’t match the Hyundai Santa Fe’s modern flair, it’s a dependable, no-nonsense option that doesn’t need fixing.

Score: 8.5/10