The Toyota Land Cruiser has always been synonymous with rugged luxury and off-road prowess. As it rolls into 2024, this iconic vehicle not only honors its rich heritage but also embraces modernity with its hybrid-only powertrain, marking a significant leap into the future of sustainable off-roading. Let's explore what the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser offers across its trims, from the utilitarian 1958 model to the luxuriously appointed First Edition.
Model Variations and Pricing
Land Cruiser LC300 Series:
- GX (4X4): Starting at $98,076, this entry-level model is powered by a 3.3L diesel engine with a 10-speed automated manual transmission.
- GXL (4X4): Priced at $109,876, offering enhanced features over the GX.
- VX (4X4): Available at $122,076, introducing more luxurious touches and technology.
- Sahara (4X4): At $139,276, this variant elevates comfort and convenience to higher levels.
- Sahara ZX (4X4): The top-end model priced at $146,876, showcases the ultimate in luxury and capability​​.
Land Cruiser 70 Series: Offers a more traditional, rugged off-road capability with a range of models including:
- WorkMate: Starting from $75,600 for the 76 Series Wagon variant, designed for practicality and durability.
- GXL: Offers additional comfort and convenience features, with the 79 Series Double-Cab Chassis GXL priced at $83,500.
- Models are available with either a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel or a 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel engine​​.
Key Features and Specifications
Land Cruiser 300 Series:
- Powered exclusively by a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel engine, delivering 227kW of power and 700Nm of torque.
- Features a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive.
- Fuel economy is rated at 8.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
- Offers advanced safety systems, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control​​.
Land Cruiser 70 Series:
- Retains the iconic 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel engine for most variants, alongside a newer 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel option.
- Updates include heritage-inspired LED headlights, a new infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and enhanced safety features like lane departure warning and speed sign recognition.
- Fuel economy for the 2.8-litre engine is 9.6L/100km, while the V8 consumes 10.7L/100km​​.
Both the LC300 and 70 Series models embody the Land Cruiser's legendary durability and capability, now enhanced with modern technology and comfort features to meet the needs of today's drivers. Whether tackling rugged off-road trails or cruising on the highway, the Land Cruiser remains a top choice for those seeking reliability, luxury, and performance in a full-sized SUV.
Design and Utility
The 2024 Land Cruiser, designed collaboratively by Toyota's CALTY design studio in California and the team in Japan, is built on the TNGA-F platform, shared with Toyota's other truck and SUV offerings like the Tundra and Sequoia. This model is exclusively available with a high-performance i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, coupling a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a 48-hp electric motor to deliver a robust 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque​​.
Off-Road Capability
Every Land Cruiser model is equipped with an electronically controlled, full-time four-wheel-drive system, an automatic limited-slip differential, and a rear locking differential, ensuring formidable off-road capability across all terrains. Unique to the top trims is a front stabilizer bar disconnect, enhancing off-road flex. Additionally, Multi-Terrain Select and CRAWL Control features are integrated to assist in navigating challenging terrains with ease​​​​.
Efficiency and Performance
Although not a plug-in hybrid, the 2024 Land Cruiser's hybrid system is designed to improve fuel efficiency significantly over its predecessors, without the need for charging infrastructure. This approach underscores Toyota's commitment to enhancing environmental sustainability without sacrificing performance​​.
Interior Comfort and Connectivity
The Land Cruiser's interior is a blend of practicality and modern technology, with the base 1958 trim featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The higher trims offer upgraded luxury, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, SofTex or genuine leather upholstery, and advanced connectivity options. Despite a shift towards ruggedness, the new model does not compromise on comfort, offering features like ventilated seats and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies​​.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is a testament to Toyota's ability to innovate while staying true to the model's off-road heritage. With its hybrid powertrain, enhanced off-road capabilities, and modern tech integration, the Land Cruiser is well-poised to continue its legacy as a favorite among adventurers and environmental enthusiasts alike. Whether it's conquering remote landscapes or cruising city streets, the Land Cruiser promises a blend of performance, luxury, and sustainability that's hard to match.
The 2024 Land Cruiser stands as a compelling evolution of an iconic series, offering something for both purists and modern adventurers. With its hybrid efficiency, rugged capability, and advanced technology, it redefines what a luxury off-roader can be in today's environmentally conscious world.