For decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has carved out a unique space in the automotive world, masterfully combining on-road refinement with exceptional off-road prowess. Globally recognized as the go-to vehicle for adventurers and overlanders, the Land Cruiser is synonymous with reliability and capability across diverse terrains. The latest iteration marks a significant shift for this iconic SUV, bringing enhanced affordability and efficiency to the esteemed Land Cruiser lineage, making it a compelling option when considering the Best Luxury Large Suvs.
While the previous generation Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, boasted a powerful but fuel-guzzling V8 engine, the new model embraces a modern and efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This innovative engine still delivers a robust 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, seamlessly paired with 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 far off the beaten path. The Land Cruiser maintains its traditional SUV body-on-frame construction, featuring an independent front suspension and a durable solid axle rear suspension. Comfortable coil springs at each wheel contribute to a smooth ride quality, making this SUV equally at home on city streets and rugged trails. For serious off-road scenarios, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms the Land Cruiser into an exceptionally skilled off-road machine.
This new Land Cruiser’s more accessible price point broadens its appeal, attracting a wider range of buyers seeking a blend of off-road capability and, surprisingly, luxury features in a large SUV package. For those who desire even greater levels of luxury, power, and towing capacity while retaining similar off-road DNA, the Lexus GX 550 presents itself as a premium alternative within the same family, albeit at a higher price. This positions the Land Cruiser strategically within the luxury large SUV segment, offering a unique value proposition.
Although the latest Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it comfortably accommodates five occupants. While the slightly reduced length and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack mean a third row of seats is no longer available, the focus shifts towards optimizing space and comfort for five passengers and their cargo.
Inside, the modern Toyota Land Cruiser is appointed with refined soft-touch materials and cutting-edge technology. The intelligently designed center console places drivetrain controls conveniently around the shifter, ensuring essential functions are easily accessible. 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 a rearview camera. Stepping up to the “Land Cruiser” grade, priced from $63,900, adds further luxury and enhanced capability, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights.
The 2025 Land Cruiser cleverly blends modern engineering with a design aesthetic that pays homage to the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination of retro styling and contemporary features positions the Land Cruiser as a compelling option for buyers considering authentically capable SUVs like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender, especially when looking for a vehicle that bridges the gap between ruggedness and luxury in the large SUV category.
