For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been synonymous with rugged reliability and go-anywhere capability, expertly blending on-road comfort with exceptional off-road performance. It’s no wonder the Land Cruiser has become the vehicle of choice for adventurers and overlanders worldwide seeking a dependable companion to explore the most challenging terrains. Now, the latest generation of this iconic nameplate arrives, marking a significant evolution with enhanced affordability and efficiency, further solidifying its position as a leading 4 Wheel Drive Suv.
The previous iteration of the Land Cruiser, concluding its run in 2021, boasted a powerful but thirsty V8 engine. The 2025 model embraces modernity with a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, delivering a robust 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, seamlessly managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser destined for American roads is equipped with a highly capable 4WD system, ready to confidently navigate drivers and passengers through the toughest conditions. Staying true to its traditional SUV roots, the Land Cruiser retains a body-on-frame construction, featuring an independent front suspension and a durable solid axle rear suspension. Coil springs at each corner provide a smooth ride, ensuring comfort across diverse road surfaces and trails. For serious off-road enthusiasts, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms this 4 wheel drive SUV into an exceptionally skilled off-road machine.
This new Land Cruiser’s more accessible price point is poised to broaden its appeal, attracting a wider audience eager to experience its legendary off-roading prowess. For those seeking an elevated experience, combining the Land Cruiser’s inherent off-road DNA with enhanced luxury, power, and towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 emerges as a compelling alternative within the same family, albeit at a premium price. Both vehicles represent strong contenders in the 4 wheel drive SUV market, catering to different preferences and needs.
While the latest Land Cruiser is both smaller and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it comfortably accommodates five occupants. The slightly reduced length and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack mean that a third row of seats is no longer available, focusing instead on maximizing space and capability for its core mission as a 4 wheel drive SUV built for adventure.
Inside, the modern Toyota Land Cruiser welcomes occupants with soft-touch materials and advanced technology. The drivetrain controls are intuitively positioned around the shifter, ensuring essential functions are readily accessible. The base “1958” model, starting at $57,900, is remarkably well-equipped for off-road adventures, featuring a standard electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control (an off-road cruise control system), and an 8-inch touchscreen with a rearview camera. Stepping up to the “Land Cruiser” grade, priced from $63,900, adds further refinement and capability, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved articulation off-road, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights, enhancing its appeal as a top-tier 4 wheel drive SUV.
The 2025 Land Cruiser masterfully blends modern engineering with a design that pays homage to the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination is sure to capture the attention of buyers considering authentically capable 4 wheel drive SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender, solidifying the Land Cruiser’s enduring legacy in the competitive 4×4 SUV segment.
