For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been synonymous with blending on-road comfort with exceptional off-road prowess. This legacy positions the Land Cruiser as a top contender in the realm of best 4×4 vehicles, particularly for those seeking a reliable companion for overland adventures. Renowned for its ability to navigate challenging terrains while carrying both passengers and gear, the Land Cruiser continues to evolve, with the latest generation bringing enhanced affordability and efficiency to this iconic nameplate.
The previous iteration of the Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, boasted a powerful but fuel-intensive V8 engine. In contrast, the all-new model embraces a modern approach with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This advanced system delivers an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, seamlessly managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission. Staying true to its heritage, every Land Cruiser destined for the U.S. market is equipped with a highly capable 4WD system, ensuring drivers can confidently venture into demanding off-road environments.
The Land Cruiser’s robust body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of traditional SUVs, underpins its rugged nature. It features an independent front suspension for refined on-road manners and a durable solid axle rear suspension, crucial for off-road articulation and strength. Coil springs at each corner contribute to a smooth ride quality, making this SUV surprisingly comfortable on diverse surfaces, from city streets to rugged trails. For serious off-road enthusiasts, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms the Land Cruiser into an exceptionally capable machine, ready to tackle challenging obstacles.
This new Land Cruiser generation aims to broaden its appeal by offering a more accessible price point, attracting a wider audience to its legendary off-roading capabilities. For those who desire a blend of Land Cruiser’s off-road DNA with added luxury, increased power, and enhanced towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a compelling alternative within a similar vehicle family, albeit at a premium price. Both vehicles represent strong options when considering the best 4×4 vehicles available.
While the 2025 Land Cruiser is dimensionally smaller and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it still provides ample space for 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 offered, focusing on maximizing space for passengers and essential cargo for expeditions.
The interior of the modern Land Cruiser is appointed with refined soft-touch materials and integrates contemporary technology seamlessly. The drivetrain controls are thoughtfully positioned around the shifter, ensuring essential functions are readily accessible to the driver. The base “1958” model, starting at $57,900, is already 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 integrated camera. Stepping up to the “Land Cruiser” grade, priced from $63,900, adds further enhancements in both luxury and capability, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved off-road performance, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights.
The design of the 2025 Land Cruiser cleverly blends modern engineering with retro aesthetics, drawing inspiration from the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination of classic styling and contemporary performance positions the Land Cruiser as a compelling option for buyers cross-shopping authentically capable SUVs. It stands shoulder-to-shoulder with rivals such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender, all vying for recognition among the best 4×4 vehicles in the market, each offering unique strengths and appeals within this competitive segment.
