The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of the most iconic and longest-running nameplates in the automotive world. Since its debut in 1951, the Land Cruiser has symbolized durability, reliability, and capability in various terrains and climates. However, in recent years, the Land Cruiser has also become a luxury SUV with a hefty price tag and a thirsty V8 engine, which limited its appeal and sales in the U.S. market. That's why Toyota discontinued the Land Cruiser after the 2021 model year, leaving many fans disappointed and nostalgic.
But the legend is not dead. In fact, it's making a triumphant comeback for the 2024 model year with a new design, platform, and powertrain that aim to return the Toyota Land Cruiser to its rugged roots. The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is smaller, more affordable, more efficient, and more heritage-inspired than the previous generation while still retaining its off-road prowess and modern features. Here's everything you need to know about the new Land Cruiser and why it might be the off-roader you've been waiting for.
A New Platform and a New Powertrain
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is based on the TNGA-F global truck platform, which also underpins the new Toyota Tundra, Sequoia, and 2024 Toyota Tacoma, as well as the Lexus GX and Lexus TX models. The new platform is lighter, stronger, and more rigid than the previous one, which improves handling, stability, and safety. The new Land Cruiser also has a shorter wheelbase and overall length than the outgoing model, which makes it more agile and maneuverable on tight trails.
The biggest change under the hood is the introduction of a hybrid powertrain for the first time in the Land Cruiser's history. The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a battery pack, producing a combined output of 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This is significantly less than the 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque that the previous V8 engine delivered. Still, Toyota claims that the hybrid system offers better low-end torque, smoother acceleration, and improved fuel economy. The hybrid powertrain is also lighter and more compact than the V8 engine, which reduces weight and improves weight distribution.
The hybrid system is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case and a locking center differential. A rear locking differential is also standard on all models, while an electronic front anti-roll bar disconnect is available on higher trims. The new Toyota Land Cruiser also features various off-road technologies such as hill descent control, crawl control, multi-terrain select, multi-terrain monitor, and adaptive variable suspension. The new Land Cruiser can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped.
A Heritage-Inspired Design
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser pays homage to its predecessors with a retro-inspired design that blends classic cues with modern elements. The front fascia features a prominent grille with either round or rectangular LED headlights, depending on the trim level. The round headlights are reminiscent of the original FJ40 model from the 1960s, while the rectangular headlights resemble the FJ62 model from the 1980s. The grille also features either a TOYOTA or a LAND CRUISER badge in block letters, adding to the nostalgic appeal.
The side profile of the new Land Cruiser is boxy and muscular, with flared wheel arches, roof rails, and rock rails. The rear end features LED taillights with vertical elements that echo the shape of the headlights. The tailgate has a split design that allows for easy access to the cargo area. The new Toyota Land Cruiser also offers two-tone paint options that contrast the roof and body colors.
The interior of the new Toyota Land Cruiser is spacious and comfortable, with seating for five passengers and up to 82 cubic feet of cargo space. The dashboard features either an 8-inch or a 12.3-inch touchscreen display that runs the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Other standard features include:
- A heated steering wheel.
- A wireless phone charger.
- A six-speaker sound system.
- Heated fabric seats.
- Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of driver-assist technologies.
Higher trims offer additional features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, four-zone climate control, a panoramic moonroof, a premium audio system with up to 14 speakers, a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, and more.
Three Trim Levels to Choose From
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser will be available in three trim levels: Land Cruiser 1958, Land Cruiser, and Land Cruiser First Edition. The base Land Cruiser 1958 model starts at around $55,000 and comes with round headlights, the TOYOTA grille, 18-inch alloy wheels, and 245/70R18 tires. The mid-range Land Cruiser model adds rectangular headlights, the LAND CRUISER grille, color-switchable LED fog lights, 265/70R18 tires, and more off-road features. The top-of-the-line Land Cruiser First Edition model is limited to 5,000 units for North America and combines the round headlights, the TOYOTA grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, 265/60R20 tires, and exclusive interior and exterior details.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is expected to arrive in the U.S. in the spring of 2024. It will compete with other midsize off-road SUVs such as the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, Land Rover Defender, and Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The new Land Cruiser promises to offer a blend of heritage, capability, efficiency, and value that will appeal to loyal fans and new customers. If you're looking for a legendary off-roader that can take you anywhere in style and comfort, the new Land Cruiser might be the one for you.
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