For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has carved a unique path, blending on-road comfort with exceptional off-road prowess. Historically favored by adventurers and overlanders for its reliability and ability to conquer diverse terrains while carrying both passengers and equipment, the Land Cruiser has entered a new era with its latest generation. Launched as a completely redesigned model, the new Land Cruiser aims to broaden its appeal by offering increased affordability and enhanced fuel efficiency, making it a compelling option in the full-size SUV market. But does this evolution position it as a contender for the Best Luxury Full Size Suv title?
The previous generation Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, boasted a powerful but fuel-guzzling V8 engine. The 2025 model embraces modernity with a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This engine, producing 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Staying true to its heritage, every Land Cruiser sold in the U.S. comes standard with a capable four-wheel-drive system, ready to tackle challenging landscapes. Its body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of traditional SUVs, combined with an independent front suspension and a robust solid rear axle, ensures durability and comfort on varied surfaces. Coil springs at each wheel contribute to a smooth ride whether you’re navigating city streets or rugged trails. For serious off-roading, features like a locking rear differential, low-range gearing, and a disconnecting front sway bar transform the Land Cruiser into a highly skilled off-road machine.
This strategic shift towards a more accessible price point is designed to attract a wider range of buyers seeking robust off-road capability. However, for those who desire even greater levels of luxury, power, and towing capacity in a similar off-road package, the Lexus GX 550 emerges as a premium alternative. The GX 550 shares its underpinnings with the Land Cruiser but elevates the experience with enhanced luxury appointments and performance.
While the new 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 a hybrid battery pack mean that a third-row seating option is not available. However, the focus remains on providing a comfortable and well-equipped cabin.
The interior of the modern Land Cruiser is characterized by soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. The drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring easy access to essential functions. 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 system for improved off-road articulation, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights.
The design of the 2025 Land Cruiser cleverly blends modern engineering with retro styling cues, reminiscent of the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination of classic aesthetics and contemporary features positions the Land Cruiser as a compelling option for buyers considering authentically capable SUVs. Competitors such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender offer similar levels of off-road prowess, but the Land Cruiser distinguishes itself with Toyota’s renowned reliability and a refined driving experience that is increasingly leaning towards the luxury full size SUV segment. While perhaps not as overtly opulent as some traditional luxury SUVs, the Land Cruiser presents a compelling case as a rugged yet refined choice for those who value both adventure and comfort in a full-size package.
