For over sixty years, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been a prime example of how to perfectly combine on-road comfort with exceptional off-road prowess. For many adventurers looking to explore remote landscapes, Land Cruisers are often the go-to vehicle, offering reliability and the capacity to transport both people and equipment across almost any terrain imaginable. The latest generation, introduced as a completely new model just last year, brings even greater affordability and efficiency to the esteemed Land Cruiser lineage, making it an even more compelling option in the realm of four-wheel drive SUVs.
The previous Land Cruiser generation, discontinued in 2021, boasted a powerful but fuel-consuming V8 engine. In contrast, the current model features a new, more efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This engine delivers an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser available in the U.S. is equipped with a highly capable 4WD system, ready to take drivers and passengers deep into challenging environments. The Land Cruiser retains a traditional body-on-frame construction, common in robust SUVs, featuring an independent front suspension and a durable solid axle rear suspension. Coil springs at each wheel ensure a comfortable ride across various surfaces, from smooth highways to rough trails. For serious off-roading, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms the Land Cruiser into an incredibly skilled off-road SUV.
This new Land Cruiser’s more accessible price point is expected to broaden its appeal, attracting buyers who value genuine off-road capability. For those seeking a blend of the Land Cruiser’s off-road aptitude with enhanced luxury, power, and towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a similar, albeit more premium, alternative.
While the latest Land Cruiser is smaller and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it still provides ample space for five occupants. However, due to its slightly reduced length and the inclusion of a hybrid battery pack which impacts cargo volume, a third-row seating option is not available.
The interior of the modern Toyota is appointed with refined soft-touch materials and incorporates contemporary technology. The drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring that essential functions are easily accessible. The base “1958” model, priced starting at $57,900, already offers significant off-road features, including 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 capability, such as an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved off-road performance, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights.
The design of the 2025 Land Cruiser, despite its modern engineering, subtly pays homage to the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This overall package is poised to capture the attention of individuals comparing authentically capable SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender, solidifying its position as a top contender in the Good Four Wheel Drive Suvs market.
