For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has carved a legendary path, seamlessly merging on-road comfort with unparalleled off-road prowess. It’s no surprise that Land Cruisers have become the trusted companion for adventurers worldwide, renowned for their reliability in traversing challenging terrains while carrying both passengers and gear. The latest generation, introduced just last year, marks a significant step forward, injecting greater accessibility and efficiency into the esteemed Land Cruiser lineage, making it a strong contender in the realm of Best 4wd Vehicles.
The outgoing generation of Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, boasted a powerful yet fuel-inefficient V8 engine. In contrast, the 2025 model embraces a modern and efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This new engine delivers an impressive 326 horsepower and a robust 465 pound-feet of torque, channeled through a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. Staying true to its heritage, every Land Cruiser destined for US roads comes equipped with a highly capable 4WD system, ready to confidently navigate drivers and passengers through the toughest landscapes, solidifying its position among the best 4wd vehicles available.
The Land Cruiser’s foundation rests upon a robust body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of traditional SUVs. It features an independent front suspension for refined on-road handling and a durable solid axle rear suspension, built to withstand punishing off-road conditions. Coil springs at each corner contribute to a comfortable ride quality, making this SUV well-suited for both city streets and rugged trails. For serious off-roading enthusiasts seeking the best 4wd vehicles, the Land Cruiser truly shines. 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, ready to tackle demanding terrains.
This new Land Cruiser generation aims for broader appeal with a more accessible price point, attracting buyers who value genuine off-road capability in their search for the best 4wd vehicles. For those desiring a blend of Land Cruiser’s off-road prowess with enhanced luxury, power, and towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a similar yet more premium alternative.
While the latest 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 that a third row of seats is not available in this generation.
The interior of the modern Land Cruiser is appointed with 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, starting at $57,900, offers impressive off-road features as standard, including an electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control (an off-road cruise control system), and an 8-inch touchscreen with a rearview camera. Stepping up to the Land Cruiser grade, priced from $63,900, adds further luxury and capability, such as an electronic sway bar disconnect for improved articulation off-road, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights, further cementing its status as one of the best 4wd vehicles in its class.
The 2025 Land Cruiser may boast modern engineering and a hybrid powertrain, but its exterior design pays homage to the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This blend of retro aesthetics and modern capability positions the Land Cruiser as a compelling option for anyone considering authentically capable SUVs like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender when searching for the best 4wd vehicles on the market.
