For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has carved a unique path, seamlessly merging on-road comfort with formidable off-road prowess. Renowned for its reliability and ability to conquer diverse terrains, the Land Cruiser has become a favored choice for adventurers and overlanders seeking a dependable vehicle capable of carrying both people and gear. The latest generation, launched as a completely redesigned model, brings a new dimension to the Land Cruiser legacy: enhanced affordability and improved fuel efficiency thanks to its advanced hybrid powertrain. This makes it a strong contender in the Best Large Hybrid Suv category.
Departing from its previous generation’s thirsty V8 engine, the 2025 Land Cruiser embraces a cutting-edge 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This innovative system delivers a robust 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, channeled through a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser destined for US soil is equipped with a highly capable 4WD system, ensuring drivers can confidently venture off the beaten path. The Land Cruiser’s traditional body-on-frame construction, paired with an independent front suspension and a durable solid rear axle, provides the ruggedness expected of a true SUV. Coil springs at each corner contribute to a comfortable ride across various surfaces, from city streets to challenging trails. For serious off-roading, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms the Land Cruiser into an exceptionally skilled off-road machine, positioning it as a top pick for those seeking the best large hybrid suv with true all-terrain capability.
The more accessible price point of this new Land Cruiser generation broadens its appeal, attracting buyers who prioritize off-road capability alongside modern efficiency. For those desiring a similar blend of off-road mastery but with heightened luxury, power, and towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a comparable, albeit more premium, option. While the new Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it still comfortably accommodates five occupants. The slightly reduced length and the placement of the hybrid system’s battery pack mean a third row of seats is not available, focusing on maximizing space and efficiency for its core purpose as a capable and efficient large hybrid suv.
Inside, the Land Cruiser blends ruggedness with modern sophistication. Soft-touch materials and contemporary technology create a comfortable and functional cabin. Drivetrain controls are intuitively positioned around the shifter, ensuring essential functions are easily accessible. The base 1958 model, starting at $57,900, is well-equipped for off-road adventures, featuring a standard electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control, and an 8-inch touchscreen with a rearview camera. Upgrading to the Land Cruiser grade, priced from $63,900, adds further refinement and capability, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights. This range of features and trims solidifies its position as a competitive choice within the best large hybrid suv market.
The 2025 Land Cruiser’s exterior design cleverly blends modern engineering with nostalgic cues, drawing inspiration from the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination of retro aesthetics and contemporary technology is poised to capture the attention of buyers considering authentically capable SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender. However, the Land Cruiser’s hybrid powertrain and refined on-road manners distinguish it, making a compelling case as perhaps the best large hybrid suv for those who demand both efficiency and uncompromising capability.
