Toyota Land Cruiser Overview

Few vehicles have a legacy as rich and storied as the Toyota Land Cruiser. For over six decades, it has been synonymous with rugged durability, off-road prowess, and unparalleled reliability. Known for conquering some of the world’s most challenging terrains, the Land Cruiser has earned its place as a true automotive icon. But with the rise of more modern and tech-savvy SUVs, does the current model still hold its crown as the king of off-roading, or is it an outdated relic that has failed to keep up with the times? In this Toyota Land Cruiser review, we’ll explore its capabilities, features, and performance to determine if it’s still worthy of its legendary status.

The Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV that blends luxury with formidable off-road capabilities. Built on a body-on-frame platform, it’s designed to tackle everything from rocky trails to sandy deserts while providing a comfortable and refined ride on paved roads. The latest model comes with a host of modern features and technologies, but it still retains the core attributes that have made it a favorite among adventurers and off-road enthusiasts.

Key Specifications:

Engine: 5.7-liter V8 producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission: 8-speed automatic.
Drivetrain: Full-time four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case.
Towing Capacity: Up to 8,100 pounds.
Starting Price: Around $85,000.

Exterior Design: Timelessly Rugged or Showing Its Age?

The Toyota Land Cruiser’s exterior design has remained largely unchanged for several years, and it’s easy to see why. Its boxy shape, high ground clearance, and wide stance give it an imposing presence that screams off-road capability. The large grille, flanked by LED headlights, and the pronounced wheel arches contribute to its rugged appearance.

While some may find the design classic and timeless, others might argue that it looks dated compared to the sleeker, more modern designs of today’s luxury SUVs. However, the Land Cruiser’s utilitarian aesthetics are not just for show—they serve a purpose. The high ground clearance, short overhangs, and sturdy bodywork are all optimized for off-road performance, allowing it to navigate challenging terrains with ease.

Exterior Highlights:

High Ground Clearance: With 8.9 inches of ground clearance, the Land Cruiser can tackle rough terrains without breaking a sweat.
Robust Build: The body-on-frame construction and skid plates protect the underbody from rocks and debris.
Functional Design: The wide stance and squared-off shape maximize interior space and stability.

Pros:

Iconic, rugged design that stands out in the crowd.
Functional features tailored for off-road use.
Durable build quality designed to withstand harsh conditions.

Cons:

Outdated design may not appeal to those looking for a more modern aesthetic.
Large dimensions can make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces challenging.

Interior Comfort and Features: Luxurious and Spacious, But Dated?

Step inside the Toyota Land Cruiser, and you’re greeted with an interior that blends luxury with practicality. The cabin is spacious, with three rows of seating that can accommodate up to eight passengers. High-quality materials, including leather upholstery and wood trim, give the interior a premium feel, while the large windows and high seating position provide excellent visibility.

The front seats are heated and ventilated, with multiple power adjustments, ensuring comfort on long journeys. The second row is also roomy, but the third row, while adequate for children, is tight for adults. The cargo space is decent, but the side-hinged rear door and third-row seats that fold to the sides instead of flat can limit practicality.

Despite its luxury appointments, the Land Cruiser’s interior technology feels somewhat dated. The infotainment system, while functional, lacks the modernity and user-friendliness of newer systems found in competitors. Features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, now standard in many vehicles, are notably absent.

Interior Features:

Spacious Cabin: Ample headroom and legroom in the first and second rows; third row suitable for children.
Infotainment System: 9-inch touchscreen with navigation, Bluetooth, and a 14-speaker JBL sound system.
Comfort and Convenience: Heated and ventilated front seats, four-zone climate control, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Pros:

Luxurious materials and solid build quality.
Spacious interior with comfortable seating for long journeys.
Numerous comfort and convenience features.

Cons:

Dated infotainment system with no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Third-row seats are cumbersome to fold and limit cargo versatility.
Lack of modern tech features found in newer luxury SUVs.

Performance and Off-Road Capabilities: The King of the Wild?

Performance and off-road capability are where the Toyota Land Cruiser truly shines. Under the hood, it features a powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine that delivers 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system, provides ample power for both highway cruising and tackling tough off-road trails.

The Land Cruiser is equipped with a range of off-road features that enhance its capabilities. These include a two-speed transfer case, a locking center differential, and Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which improves wheel articulation and stability on uneven terrain. Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control further enhance its ability to navigate challenging conditions by automatically adjusting the throttle and brakes.

Despite its impressive off-road credentials, the Land Cruiser is also surprisingly comfortable on the road. The suspension absorbs bumps and rough patches with ease, and the steering is precise, making it more manageable than its size would suggest. However, its large dimensions and considerable weight can make it feel cumbersome in tight spaces and urban environments.

Performance Highlights:

Powerful V8 Engine: Provides robust acceleration and towing capability.
Off-Road Features: Full-time 4WD, two-speed transfer case, KDSS, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control.
Towing Capacity: Can tow up to 8,100 pounds, making it ideal for hauling trailers and boats.

Pros:

Exceptional off-road capability with advanced features.
Powerful engine and smooth transmission.
Comfortable and composed ride quality on and off the road.

Cons:

Fuel economy is poor, with an EPA rating of just 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway.
Large size and weight make it less agile than smaller SUVs.
Limited to a single engine and drivetrain configuration.

Technology and Infotainment: Lacking the Latest Tech?

While the Land Cruiser offers a host of features and amenities, its technology is where it begins to show its age. The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while functional, feels outdated compared to the more modern interfaces found in rivals. It includes navigation, a premium JBL audio system, and Bluetooth connectivity, but it lacks Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot—features that are now standard in many newer vehicles.

On the plus side, the Land Cruiser comes with a range of safety and driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features enhance safety and convenience, especially on long drives.

Technology Features:

Infotainment System: 9-inch touchscreen with navigation, voice recognition, and a 14-speaker JBL sound system.
Rear Seat Entertainment: Dual 11.6-inch screens with wireless headphones and HDMI inputs.
Safety Features: Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) suite, including pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and dynamic radar cruise control.

Pros:

Comprehensive safety features enhance driving confidence.
Rear-seat entertainment system is great for families.
Reliable and easy-to-use infotainment system.

Cons:

Outdated technology compared to modern luxury SUVs.
No smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Basic graphics and interface for the infotainment system.

Practicality and Usability: Built for Adventure, But What About Daily Use?

The Toyota Land Cruiser is built to handle the most challenging conditions, but its practicality as a daily driver depends on your needs. Its large size and high ground clearance can make it a challenge in urban environments, especially when it comes to parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. However, for those who need to tow heavy loads or navigate unpaved roads regularly, it’s an ideal choice.

The interior offers a good amount of storage space, but the third-row seats, which fold to the sides rather than flat into the floor, limit cargo capacity and flexibility. The side-hinged rear door, while adding a rugged touch, can also be cumbersome in tight parking spaces or when loading large items.

Practicality Highlights:

Cargo Space: Offers 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 41.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 82.8 cubic feet with the second row down.
Towing Capacity: Up to 8,100 pounds, ideal for towing boats, trailers, and more.
Durable Interior: Easy-to-clean materials and sturdy construction make it well-suited for active lifestyles.

Pros:

Excellent cargo space with the second and third rows folded.
High towing capacity and strong off-road capability.
Durable and easy-to-clean interior.

Cons:

Third-row seats fold to the sides, limiting cargo flexibility.
Large size can be cumbersome in tight spaces.
High fuel consumption makes it less practical for daily commuting.

Is the Toyota Land Cruiser the King of Off-Roading or an Outdated Relic?

The Toyota Land Cruiser remains a formidable off-roader and a symbol of rugged reliability. Its blend of luxury, durability, and off-road prowess makes it an attractive choice for those who need a vehicle that can handle extreme conditions while providing a comfortable ride. However, its high price, dated technology, and poor fuel efficiency make it less appealing for those who prioritize modern amenities and everyday practicality.

For adventurers and off-road enthusiasts, the Land Cruiser is hard to beat. Its legendary reputation, bulletproof build quality, and advanced off-road features ensure it can tackle almost any challenge. But for the average buyer looking for a modern, tech-savvy SUV for daily driving, there are more refined and efficient options available in the luxury SUV segment.

Pros:

Unmatched off-road capability and durability.
Luxurious and spacious interior with premium materials.
Strong towing capacity and rugged construction.

Cons:

Outdated technology and infotainment system.
High fuel consumption and limited practicality for daily use.
Expensive compared to more modern competitors.

Conclusion

The Toyota Land Cruiser remains a unique offering in the SUV market, blending luxury with legendary off-road capability. While it may not be the most practical or modern choice for everyday use, it excels in areas where few other vehicles can compete. For those who need a vehicle that can go anywhere and do almost anything, the Land Cruiser is still the king. However, its dated technology, high cost, and poor fuel efficiency mean it’s not the best choice for everyone. As the automotive world continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Toyota adapts this iconic model to meet the demands of modern drivers.