For over sixty years, the Toyota Land Cruiser has carved a reputation as a paragon of reliability, seamlessly merging on-road comfort with formidable off-road prowess. This iconic vehicle has become the trusted companion for adventurers and overlanders who demand a robust machine capable of navigating challenging terrains while carrying both passengers and essential gear. The latest generation Land Cruiser marks a significant evolution, debuting as a completely redesigned model that not only upholds this legacy but also introduces enhanced affordability and efficiency to the esteemed Land Cruiser lineage of Four Wheel Suvs.
Departing from its predecessor, which concluded its run in 2021 with a fuel-guzzling yet potent V8 engine, the new Land Cruiser embraces a modern and efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This advanced system delivers an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, channeled through a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser that has graced American soil comes equipped with a highly capable four-wheel drive (4WD) system, empowering drivers to confidently venture far beyond paved roads. The Land Cruiser’s robust body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of traditional SUVs, features an independent front suspension paired with a durable solid axle rear. Each corner is supported by smooth-riding coil springs, ensuring a comfortable driving experience across diverse road surfaces and trails. For serious off-road enthusiasts, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms this four wheel SUV into an exceptionally skilled off-road performer.
The more accessible price point of this Land Cruiser generation is poised to broaden its appeal, attracting a wider audience seeking a four wheel SUV with genuine off-road capability. For those desiring to amplify the Land Cruiser’s rugged charm with heightened levels of luxury, power, and towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a compelling alternative, offering a similar robust package at a premium price. Both vehicles cater to the discerning driver who values a blend of off-road aptitude and on-road refinement in a four wheel SUV.
While the new Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter than its V8-powered predecessors, it still provides ample space for five occupants. However, the slightly reduced overall length and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack mean that a third row of seating is not available in this iteration. The interior of this four wheel SUV is thoughtfully appointed with soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. Drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring that essential functions are readily accessible.
The entry-level “1958” model, starting at $57,900, is well-equipped for off-road adventures, featuring a standard 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 enhancements to both luxury and capability, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved off-road articulation, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights.
The 2025 Land Cruiser masterfully blends modern engineering with design cues reminiscent of the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination is sure to capture the attention of those considering authentically capable four wheel SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender, solidifying the Land Cruiser’s position as a leading choice in the four wheel SUV market.
