For over sixty years, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been recognized for its exceptional blend of on-road comfort and off-road prowess. It has consistently been a top choice for adventurers and those needing a reliable vehicle capable of transporting people and equipment across diverse terrains. The latest generation, introduced last year, aims to broaden its appeal with enhanced affordability and efficiency.
Departing from its previous generation’s thirsty V8 engine (discontinued in 2021), the new Land Cruiser embraces a more economical 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This setup delivers a robust 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser sold in the U.S. comes equipped with a capable 4WD system, ensuring confident off-road exploration. The Land Cruiser maintains a traditional SUV body-on-frame construction, featuring an independent front suspension and a durable solid axle rear suspension. Coil springs at each corner provide a comfortable ride across varied surfaces, from city streets to rugged trails. For serious off-roading, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting to Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar significantly enhances the Land Cruiser’s capability in challenging environments.
With a more accessible price point, this Land Cruiser iteration is poised to attract a wider range of buyers seeking off-road capability. For those desiring a blend of Land Cruiser’s off-road DNA with added luxury, increased power, and greater towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a comparable, albeit more premium, alternative.
While the new Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it comfortably accommodates five passengers. However, due to its slightly reduced length and the space occupied by the hybrid system’s battery pack, a third row of seating is not available. Although this might be a consideration for larger families specifically seeking a “Best Hybrid Suv With 3rd Row”, the Land Cruiser still provides considerable space and utility for many buyers.
Inside, the Land Cruiser offers a modern Toyota interior with soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. Drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring ease of access. The base “1958” model, starting at $57,900, is 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. Upgrading to the “Land Cruiser” grade, priced from $63,900, adds further 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 2025 Land Cruiser’s design cleverly blends modern engineering with retro styling cues reminiscent of the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination is likely to draw attention from those considering authentically capable SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender. While those models might offer different strengths, the Land Cruiser distinguishes itself with its hybrid efficiency and renowned Toyota reliability, making it a compelling option in the SUV market, even for buyers initially searching for the “best hybrid SUV with 3rd row” who might prioritize other factors like off-road capability and long-term dependability.
