For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been a symbol of reliability and rugged capability, seamlessly blending on-road comfort with exceptional off-road performance. Renowned as a top choice for adventurers and overlanders, the Land Cruiser is built to navigate challenging terrains while carrying passengers and gear. The latest generation, introduced as a completely new model, enhances the Land Cruiser’s appeal with improved affordability and efficiency, cementing its position among Good 4 Wheel Drive Cars.
The previous generation Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, was known for its powerful yet fuel-consuming V8 engine. The 2025 model adopts a more efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, delivering 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser continues to feature a highly capable 4WD system, ready to tackle demanding off-road environments. Its body-on-frame construction, similar to traditional SUVs, incorporates an independent front suspension and a durable solid axle rear. Coil springs at each wheel ensure a comfortable ride across diverse surfaces, from city streets to rough trails. Engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms the Land Cruiser into a highly skilled off-road machine, a testament to its design as one of the best good 4 wheel drive cars available.
This new Land Cruiser generation, with its more accessible price point, broadens its appeal to buyers seeking serious off-roading capabilities in good 4 wheel drive cars. For those desiring a blend of Land Cruiser’s off-road prowess with enhanced luxury, increased power, and greater towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a comparable alternative at a premium price.
While being smaller and lighter than its V8 predecessors, the current Land Cruiser still provides ample space for five occupants. However, due to its slightly reduced length and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack, a third row of seats is not offered.
The interior of the modern Toyota Land Cruiser is refined with soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. Drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the shifter, ensuring ease of access. The base “1958” model, priced 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 $63,900 Land Cruiser grade adds further luxury and enhanced off-road features, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights, reinforcing its status among good 4 wheel drive cars.
The 2025 Land Cruiser’s design subtly nods to the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s, blending modern engineering with classic aesthetics. This combination is poised to attract buyers considering genuinely capable SUVs like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender, solidifying the Land Cruiser’s position as a leading choice in the realm of good 4 wheel drive cars.
