For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has cemented its reputation as the quintessential SUV with 4×4 capability, seamlessly blending on-road comfort with rugged off-road prowess. Globally recognized as the go-to vehicle for adventurers and overlanders, the Land Cruiser is trusted to navigate the most challenging terrains while carrying passengers and equipment reliably. The latest generation, a completely redesigned model launched last year, brings a new era of affordability and efficiency to this iconic 4×4 SUV lineup.
Departing from its previous generation’s fuel-guzzling V8, which concluded its run in 2021, the new Land Cruiser embraces a modern 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This innovative engine delivers an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. Staying true to its heritage, every Land Cruiser destined for the U.S. market is equipped with a highly capable four-wheel-drive system, ensuring drivers can confidently venture far off the beaten path. The Land Cruiser’s robust body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of traditional SUVs, features an independent front suspension for refined handling and a durable solid axle rear suspension built to withstand demanding conditions. Coil springs at all four corners provide a comfortable ride quality across diverse road surfaces and trails. For serious off-road scenarios, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms this SUV with 4×4 into an exceptionally skilled off-road machine.
This new Land Cruiser generation aims to broaden its appeal by offering a more accessible price point, attracting a wider range of buyers seeking genuine off-road capability in a 4×4 SUV. For those desiring a step up in luxury, power, and towing capacity without sacrificing the Land Cruiser’s core off-road DNA, the Lexus GX 550 presents a comparable package at a premium price. Both are excellent examples of body-on-frame SUVs with 4×4, but cater to slightly different market segments.
While the current Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it still provides ample space for five occupants. The slightly reduced length and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack mean a third-row seating option is no longer available. However, this design choice prioritizes off-road maneuverability and optimized cargo space for essential gear, aligning with the vehicle’s primary purpose as a capable 4×4 SUV.
The interior of the modern Toyota Land Cruiser is appointed with quality soft-touch materials and integrates advanced technology seamlessly. The drivetrain controls are intuitively positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring essential functions are readily 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. Upgrading to the “Land Cruiser” grade, priced from $63,900, enhances both luxury and off-road features with the addition of an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved articulation, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights. These features underscore Toyota’s commitment to delivering a high-performance SUV with 4×4 for diverse needs and budgets.
The design of the 2025 Land Cruiser subtly nods to the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s, blending retro aesthetics with modern engineering. This appealing combination positions it as a strong contender for buyers considering authentically capable SUVs with 4×4, such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender. Each of these vehicles offers a unique take on the 4×4 SUV formula, but the Land Cruiser distinguishes itself with its blend of Toyota reliability, hybrid efficiency, and legendary off-road heritage.
