For over sixty years, the Toyota Land Cruiser has cultivated a reputation for seamlessly blending on-road comfort with exceptional off-road capability. Globetrotters and adventurers have long relied on Land Cruisers as their vehicle of choice when venturing into remote landscapes, trusting in their reliability to transport both people and equipment across challenging terrains. The latest generation, introduced as a completely new model last year, enhances the Land Cruiser legacy by offering greater affordability and improved efficiency within the model range, making it a strong contender in the Top Rated 4 Wheel Drive Suv category.
Departing from its predecessor, which concluded its run in 2021 with a fuel-thirsty V8 engine, the new Land Cruiser adopts a more modern and efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This setup delivers a robust 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, managed through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Staying true to its heritage, every Land Cruiser destined for the U.S. market is equipped with a highly capable 4WD system, ensuring drivers and passengers can confidently navigate challenging off-road conditions. The Land Cruiser’s construction utilizes a body-on-frame design, characteristic of traditional SUVs, featuring an independent front suspension and a durable solid axle at the rear. Coil springs at each corner contribute to a smooth ride, enhancing comfort whether on city streets or rugged 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 adept off-road machine, solidifying its position as a top rated 4 wheel drive SUV for adventure enthusiasts.
The more accessible price point of this Land Cruiser generation is expected to broaden its appeal, drawing in a wider range of buyers who appreciate its off-roading prowess. For those seeking a blend of Land Cruiser’s off-road capabilities with enhanced luxury, increased power, and greater towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a comparable alternative at a premium price. However, for many, the Land Cruiser hits the sweet spot in the top rated 4 wheel drive SUV segment by offering a compelling mix of capability and value.
While the latest Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter compared to the previous V8 iterations, it still provides ample space for five occupants. Due to its slightly reduced length and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack, a third row of seats is not available. This focus on five-passenger capacity underscores its design as a highly capable yet practical top rated 4 wheel drive SUV.
The interior of the modern Toyota Land Cruiser is appointed with refined soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. Drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring essential functions are easily accessible. The base 1958 model, priced starting at $57,900, is already equipped for off-road adventures with 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, from $63,900, adds further luxury and enhanced capability, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved off-road articulation, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights. These features contribute to the Land Cruiser’s standing as a top rated 4 wheel drive SUV offering various trims to suit different needs and preferences.
Although the 2025 Land Cruiser incorporates modern mechanical components, its exterior styling pays homage to the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This blend of retro-inspired design and modern engineering is anticipated to capture the attention of buyers considering genuinely capable SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender. Ultimately, the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser reasserts itself as a top rated 4 wheel drive SUV by delivering a compelling combination of heritage, capability, and modern features in a more accessible package.
