Toyota’s Land Cruiser is crafted for those who demand serious off-road performance, offering unmatched ruggedness. In the battle of trail-ready SUVs, it faces off with tough competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Land Rover Defender, and Ford Bronco. It also shares the spotlight with its siblings, the Toyota 4Runner and Lexus GX 550, asserting its dominance in the off-road segment.
DESIGN
Distinctive and bold, the Land Cruiser boasts a unique design with two headlight options. The base 1958 model features classic round lights, while this updated version showcases a sharper rectangular design. Smoky Blue with a white roof ($350) enhances its appeal, paired with 20-inch alloys ($1,240). From the rear-three-quarter view, the boxy shape stands out, but a lift with larger tires would elevate its presence—likely a popular modification among buyers.
Inside, the Land Cruiser offers a varied experience. A standard digital gauge cluster complements the 1958 model’s eight-inch infotainment screen, with higher trims upgrading to a 12.3-inch display. For $4,600, the Premium Package delivers a 14-speaker JBL audio system, which may be more than necessary for some. It comfortably seats four adults but can be adapted for five with a simple adjustment, swapping out some adults for children.
PERFORMANCE
Under the hood, a 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid engine produces 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. While those figures suggest impressive performance, the actual driving experience doesn’t entirely reflect them. The eight-speed automatic transmission drives all four wheels with an emphasis on smoothness and comfort, providing a tranquil and easygoing ride rather than one that’s spirited or aggressive.
Stepping inside the Land Cruiser, there’s an immediate departure from the 200 Series. The heavy, solid feel of the previous model is replaced by a lighter, quieter experience. While the switchgear has a more refined look, it lacks the sturdy, premium feel of its predecessor, offering a more polished but less rugged vibe than what the nameplate is known for.
Despite the substantial torque, the hybrid drivetrain doesn’t stir much excitement. It’s not that the i-Force Max engine underperforms, but the Land Cruiser leans more toward comfort than spirited driving. Toyota seems to have dialed it in for a more relaxed driving experience, leaving performance enthusiasts craving a little more intensity under the hood.
Even with its comfort-focused tuning, the Land Cruiser excels off-road. My test vehicle featured a push-button sway bar disconnect, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control. The 360-degree camera system provided improved visibility, which was invaluable on more challenging terrain. These features enhance the Land Cruiser’s off-road prowess, where it stands out in its element.
Toyota didn’t prioritize creating a high-performance vehicle with this Land Cruiser. Sitting at 8.7 inches of ground clearance, it’s a bit lower than some rivals. However, its minimal overhangs offer a 31-degree approach angle, outperforming many in the segment. This helped it easily scale steep inclines, although ground clearance did show its limitations on particularly rough terrain.
At the top of a steep incline, the Land Cruiser did scrape its underbelly. With a breakover angle of 22 degrees, it’s slightly less favorable than some competitors. However, its 25-degree departure angle is better than many rivals. Despite these limitations, the Land Cruiser excels in low-speed, technical off-road conditions, showing off its true off-road abilities.
Though the electric-only mode could last longer, the engine kicks in quickly with a subtle tone, more noticeable inside than at the rear exhaust. On highways, the Land Cruiser doesn’t feel as dynamic as expected. While the base model lacks certain features, the driving experience leans toward being more subdued than the lively, spirited performance some might hope for.
VERDICT
Our test model of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 4WD hybrid starts at $61,950, with additional options bringing the total to $70,029.
Competition
Within Toyota’s lineup, the Lexus GX stands as a competitor. It delivers more power and luxury, though its upscale features and premium design come with a higher price tag.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly off-roader, the redesigned 4Runner offers a solid choice. However, it lacks the interior space and overall allure that the Land Cruiser brings. Those desiring a larger version might need to look outside the U.S. or opt for the pricier Lexus LX 600.
Nissan’s revamped Armada enters the scene as another rival, offering a similar size and pricing while maintaining a rugged yet polished character. The Land Rover Defender is a close contender in terms of dimensions and cost, though its higher trims can surpass the Land Cruiser’s price point.
