After a three-year hiatus, the latest Land Cruiser emerges with a fresh design and distinct character, setting it apart from its predecessor. U.S. buyers will encounter a model that diverges significantly from the internationally renowned 300 Series Land Cruiser, celebrated in other markets.
Known globally as the Land Cruiser Prado, this new model allows Toyota to reserve full-size luxury SUVs for its premium lineup. Designed to compete with the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and Ford Bronco, Toyota leverages the iconic Land Cruiser name in a more compact, capable form.
DESIGN
Proportions on the Land Cruiser have shifted noticeably, giving it a narrower, boxier shape, now 4.4 inches slimmer and 1.2 inches shorter than the 200 Series. Both the entry-level 1958 and top-tier First Edition sport round headlights as a throwback to the 1960s 40 Series. Standard 18-inch wheels can be upgraded to 20-inch alloys, and our test model came in a striking Meteor Shower finish with a minimalist black interior.
Inside, the dashboard setup channels the style of the GX and Mercedes-Benz G-Class, with an upright design close to the windshield. Controls for climate and audio should feel familiar if you’ve read recent Toyota reviews, with plenty of physical buttons and dials. The 1958 trim comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen alongside a 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all models, but without split-screen capability, users must choose between an expansive map view or a packed CarPlay interface. The 8.0-inch screen can feel tight, and some main touch commands are fixed on the left rail, limiting screen space further.
Front seats offer decent comfort and support, though they lack the width and firmness of those in previous models. The base 1958 model includes cloth upholstery with a retro look, and hard plastics throughout the cabin make cleaning easier but don’t convey a premium feel, particularly at a $60,969 price point. A hollow door-closing sound might also raise concerns over durability.
Rear seat comfort is reasonable, with enough space to sit behind my own driving position, aided by a stadium-style seating layout. Taller passengers may find headroom tight, despite the scalloped headliner. The rear seats can recline manually and fold flat for cargo flexibility, though a third-row option isn’t offered for the U.S. market.
Cargo area changes are minimal, with armrests and cup holders suggesting a third-row provision elsewhere. The high liftover height results from a raised load floor that accommodates the hybrid battery, and a false floor with plastic compartments creates a flat cargo area, much like GM’s previous models.
For easier cargo access, the rear window opens independently of the tailgate, though reaching over the tailgate may still be awkward. At 76.1 inches tall, the Land Cruiser’s tailgate risks hitting garage doors when fully opened. While the 1958 model has a manual tailgate, mid-tier trims include a power-operated option that can be programmed to open partially.
PERFORMANCE
Powertrain changes mark a significant shift in the latest Land Cruiser, with the former V-8 replaced by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired with a 48-hp electric motor and an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque—55 horsepower less but 64 lb-ft more torque than before. With a weight of 5,037 pounds, the model has shed 776 pounds, giving it a more agile feel.
Fuel efficiency has also improved. The prior Land Cruiser managed just 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 14 mpg combined. In comparison, the 2024 model achieves 22 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. Although our real-world test fell slightly short, future mileage may see gains as the engine settles in.
Four-wheel drive comes standard with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential and a two-speed transfer case for off-road control. A Mode Select dial switches between Sport, Normal, and Eco, while the MTS button unlocks off-road settings. DAC/CRAWL allows for easy speed management on rougher terrain.
Beneath its rugged profile, the new Land Cruiser rides on Toyota’s GA-F body-on-frame platform, shared with the Tacoma and Lexus GX. This hybrid setup may not redefine the drive experience, but its performance remains solid. The four-cylinder’s torque almost matches the GX 550’s V-6, while the lighter weight aids responsiveness.
On the road, the Land Cruiser delivers lively performance, though it can be loud. The hybrid’s low-end torque helps counter the SUV’s weight and boxy shape, but these factors also amplify wind noise at higher speeds. Nonetheless, it’s eager off the line.
While grip is ample, cornering shows some body roll. Without adaptive suspension, it uses softer tuning, which provides a smooth ride on rougher ground but leans noticeably in tight turns. This quality lends the SUV a unique charm, designed for comfort over sporty handling, while the body-on-frame build brings some shakiness that feels more characterful than concerning.
VERDICT
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 1958 has a starting MSRP of $55,950. With the addition of a few options, the final price came to $60,969.
Competition
Toyota’s lineup includes several strong contenders that could appeal to Land Cruiser fans. For a more premium experience, the Lexus GX offers a powerful and upscale alternative with enhanced luxury features, though this upgrade also comes with a higher price tag.
Toyota’s updated 4Runner caters to off-road enthusiasts seeking a more budget-friendly option, though it doesn’t match the Land Cruiser’s interior space or unique style. For those wanting a larger SUV, choices include moving up to the pricier but impressive Lexus LX 600 or exploring the Land Cruiser’s overseas variants.
Nissan’s reimagined Armada provides a more spacious alternative while remaining in a similar price range, balancing toughness with elegance. Another close rival, the Land Rover Defender, shares similar dimensions and is comparably priced, though its extensive option list can push it well beyond the Land Cruiser’s cost.
