You know that friend of yours that manages to drink an entire pint while you’re out at the bar before you even pick up your mug? Sneaky sippers can lead to lighter wallets, and it is pretty much the only complaint we have with the newest iteration of the Toyota Kluger.

Like your friend, there are a couple things that could lead you to suspect that all is not right with the Kluger’s fuel consumption numbers. In spite of the front-wheel-drive layout, it’s still got a throaty V6 that needs to lug around up to seven passengers. And, in spite of the fact that the official tests are without a heavy cargo load, you’re likely to fill it up before you go anywhere.

Honestly, we just tried to scare off some diesel-lovers. The Kluger is a well put-together vehicle with an amazing interior, so if you’re willing to overlook some petrol bills, you should take a closer look.

Let’s start inside where you’ll be spending most of your time. The leather trim follows the lines of the interior to very comfortable seats that are heated in the front, movable in the center and big enough to handle a couple of kids in the rear. In fact, the center row moves forward and back similar to some vans, offering the ability to configure a set-up for each passenger.

If you’re bringing more stuff than people, the rear seats fold down to provide a good amount of storage in the back. Getting you there in ease is made simpler with the SatNav and multi-zone climate control.

But let’s get back to the sipping part of the equation. The V6 engine provides a healthy 201kW higher in the rev range, but more useful is the 337Nm in mid-range torque. The pedal has a bit of an itchy trigger finger, especially during launch. Most drivers won’t mind though, since it can also power the Kluger from 0 to 100 km/h in a scant eight seconds.

Once you’re up to speed, the handling of the front-wheel-drive Toyota makes it mark. Compared to the Territory, the Kluger holds its own both on and off-road. In fact, it became harder and harder not to throw it around when we took it on the back roads. It stayed flat while giving a slight bit of body lean, but nothing that could not be corrected with a bit of left-foot braking. Even better, as you move through the gears, the automatic transmission provides smooth shifting that keeps you within the power band when you need it.

Again, you’ll feel in control even if you take it into the city for a day at the museums or at a match. The Kluger manages to provide an easy view of your surroundings as you put the car in a spot.

So, if you want an SUV that has a marvelous interior that keeps a whole family comfortable and their gear stowed, or one that has a powerful engine and the ability to put corners behind it, the Kluger is a great choice. Just don’t look too hard at the bowser after your next fill-up. Or better yet, if you have the budget, write it off to your employer and don’t tell your significant other. It’s a small price to pay for an otherwise great SUV.

Specifications:
Engine: 3.5-litre V6
Power: 201kW @ 6200rpm
Torque: 337Nm @ 4700rpm
Induction: Sequential multipoint injected
Transmission: Five speed automatic
Driven Wheels: Front
Brakes: Ventilated discs, twin-piston calipers (front), Solid discs, single-piston calipers (rear)
Top Speed: 180km/h
0-100km/h: 8.0 seconds
CO2 Emissions: 259g/km
Fuel Consumption: (ADR) 11.0L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity: 72 litres
Fuel Type: 91RON
ANCAP Rating: Five stars
Airbags: Seven
Safety: ABS, EBD, BA, TC, ESC
Spare Wheel: Full size alloy
Suspension: Front and rear both independent with MacPherson struts
Cargo Capacity: 580 litres (Five Seat Mode)
Tow Capacity: 700kg unbraked, 2000kg braked
Turning Circle: 11.8 metres
Warranty: Three year/100,000 km
Weight: 1930kg
Wheels: Alloy 19 x 7.5-inch