The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser has arrived with a comprehensive redesign, aiming to reclaim its status as a premier off-road vehicle. Drawing heavily from classic Land Cruiser silhouettes, the new generation offers a blend of modern technology and utilitarian ruggedness, positioning it as a direct competitor to models like the Land Rover Defender and Ineos Grenadier. Freda Lewis-Stempel tested the new Land Cruiser across Iceland's Highlands to assess its capabilities.
Design and Utilitarian Appeal
The exterior design of the new Land Cruiser pays homage to its predecessors, specifically the 40 and 70 Series Heavy Duty models. Its imposing dimensions – approximately five meters long, two meters wide, and nearly two meters tall – contribute to a powerful road presence. Unlike some luxury SUVs, the Land Cruiser is presented as a vehicle that should not be mistaken for a 'Chelsea Tractor,' emphasizing its genuine off-road purpose.
Enhanced Off-Road Performance
Built on the new GA-F platform, the Land Cruiser retains body-on-frame construction for increased strength and rigidity. It features permanent four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. For the first time, it incorporates electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering, designed to reduce the steering kickback common in older hydraulic systems. The front suspension has been upgraded to an independent double-wishbone setup to improve off-road comfort.
New off-road systems include Multi-Terrain Select, offering various modes for different surfaces like Mud, Sand, and Rock, along with Crawl Control for maintaining low speeds on difficult terrain and Downhill Assist Control. During testing in Iceland, the Land Cruiser demonstrated remarkable capability across challenging landscapes, including steep inclines, deep river crossings, rocky terrain, and glaciers, often without the need for low-range gearing or differential locks.
On-Road Dynamics and Interior Comfort
Under the hood, the UK model is equipped with a 202bhp 2.8-litre mild-hybrid diesel engine. While not the most powerful in its class, it provides responsive performance with minimal lag. The vehicle offers a surprisingly smooth ride on faster roads and remains stable at higher speeds. Despite its size, it is maneuverable in corners, offering a driving experience that, while not as plush as a Defender, is still comfortable for long distances.
The interior is designed for durability and functionality, featuring spacious seating for five adults and a cabin that remains light and airy thanks to large windows. Practical design elements, such as thinner front seatbacks for increased rear legroom and thoughtfully placed grab handles, enhance the user experience. Both front seats are heated, with ventilation available on higher trims. The dashboard combines 12.3-inch driver and central displays with physical buttons and toggles for essential controls, offering an old-school, functional feel. Boot space is generous, with 1,062 liters available when loaded to the roof, expanding to 2,000 liters with the rear seats folded.
Pricing and Value
The new Land Cruiser is positioned as a premium offering, starting at £80,945 in the UK. This price point is higher than the entry-level Land Rover Defender and Ineos Grenadier. However, the UK model comes standard in the top-spec Invincible trim, including features like a head-up display, dual 12.3-inch screens, and a suite of ADAS safety systems. The vehicle's fuel economy is officially rated at 26.4 mpg. Toyota offers a comprehensive up-to-ten-year or 100,000-mile warranty, underscoring its reputation for reliability.