For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has cultivated a legendary reputation, seamlessly merging on-road comfort with exceptional off-road prowess. This iconic vehicle has become the trusted companion for adventurers and overlanders seeking a reliable and capable SUV to navigate challenging terrains while carrying both passengers and equipment. The latest generation of the Land Cruiser marks a significant evolution, debuting as a completely redesigned model that not only enhances its celebrated capabilities but also introduces greater affordability and improved fuel efficiency to the esteemed Land Cruiser lineage, making it a compelling option in the competitive Best Midsize Suv Hybrid market.
The previous iteration of the Land Cruiser, which concluded its run in 2021, was characterized by its powerful yet fuel-consuming V8 engine. In a progressive shift towards efficiency, the new Land Cruiser embraces a state-of-the-art 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This advanced system delivers an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. Staying true to its heritage, every Land Cruiser ever available in the U.S. has been equipped with a robust 4WD system, and this new model is no exception, ensuring drivers can confidently venture far off the beaten path. The Land Cruiser maintains its traditional SUV architecture with body-on-frame construction, featuring an independent front suspension for enhanced on-road handling and a durable solid axle rear suspension built to withstand rugged conditions. Coil springs at all four corners contribute to a comfortable ride quality across diverse surfaces, from city streets to rough 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 capable off-road machine, solidifying its place among the best midsize SUV hybrid options for adventure.
This new Land Cruiser distinguishes itself by offering a more accessible price point, broadening its appeal to buyers who value off-road capability without sacrificing modern efficiency. For those desiring a step up in luxury, power, and towing capacity while retaining the core off-road DNA, the Lexus GX 550 presents a similar yet more premium package. However, for buyers prioritizing value within the best midsize SUV hybrid segment, the Land Cruiser stands out.
While the latest Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it still provides ample space for five occupants. The slightly reduced overall length and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack do mean that a third row of seats is not available in this generation. The interior of the modern Toyota Land Cruiser is appointed with refined soft-touch materials and incorporates contemporary technology. Drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring essential functions are easily accessible. 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 enhancements, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved articulation in challenging terrain, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights, further enhancing its position as a top contender in the best midsize SUV hybrid category.
The design of the 2025 Land Cruiser cleverly blends modern engineering with nostalgic styling cues reminiscent of the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination of retro aesthetics and contemporary performance is poised to attract buyers considering authentically capable SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender, while also offering a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain that sets it apart within the best midsize SUV hybrid landscape.
