For over sixty years, the Toyota Land Cruiser has carved a unique path, seamlessly merging on-road comfort with exceptional off-road prowess. This enduring capability has made Land Cruisers the go-to vehicle for adventurers and overlanders worldwide, those who demand a dependable four wheel drive SUV capable of transporting people and equipment across virtually any terrain. The latest generation, introduced as a completely redesigned model just last year, elevates the Land Cruiser legacy by offering enhanced affordability and improved efficiency to this iconic line of Four Wheel Drive Suvs.
The previous iteration of the Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, boasted a powerful but fuel-intensive V8 engine. In contrast, the 2025 model adopts a modern and efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This new engine configuration delivers an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser destined for the U.S. market comes equipped with a highly capable 4WD system, ensuring drivers and passengers 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 robust solid axle rear suspension. Comfort-tuned coil springs at each wheel contribute to a smooth ride quality, making this four wheel drive SUV equally at home on city streets or rugged trails. For serious off-road situations, 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 within the four wheel drive SUVs category.
This new Land Cruiser’s more accessible price point is poised to broaden its appeal, attracting a wider range of buyers seeking genuine off-roading capabilities in a four wheel drive SUV. For those who appreciate the Land Cruiser’s off-road DNA but desire even more luxury, power, and towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a similar platform with enhanced features at a premium price. Both vehicles represent compelling options within the realm of four wheel drive SUVs, catering to different needs and preferences.
While the latest Land Cruiser is both smaller and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it still provides ample space for five occupants. However, due to the slightly reduced overall length and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack, a third-row seating option is no longer available. The interior of this modern Toyota four wheel drive SUV is appointed with refined soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. Drivetrain controls are intuitively positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring essential functions are readily 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. Stepping up to the Land Cruiser grade, priced from $63,900, adds further luxury and enhanced off-road technology, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved articulation, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights.
The 2025 Land Cruiser, while embracing modern engineering, cleverly incorporates exterior design cues reminiscent of the beloved Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This blend of retro aesthetics and contemporary capability positions it as an attractive choice for anyone considering authentically capable four wheel drive SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender. The new Land Cruiser effectively bridges its storied past with modern demands, solidifying its place as a leading contender in the four wheel drive SUVs market.
