Land Cruiser Returns as Toyota Off-Road Leader

CHATHAM, Mass. – When Toyota pulled the plug in the United States on its Land Cruiser (LC) following the 2021 model year, the feeling within the auto world was the end of an icon which had been marketed here since 1958.

With apologies to Mark Twain — report of its death was an exaggeration as Toyota has brought its latest generation of the venerable sport-utility vehicle (SUV) back to this market beginning with the 2024 model year.

We recently spent a week in the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 1958, the well-equipped base model of the two-version range (not counting the limited-run First Edition model), all with hybrid-electric powertrain and full-time four-wheel drive (4WD).

The Land Cruiser evolved from a vehicle developed for the Japanese military to mimic the capabilities of the venerable Willys Jeep (forerunner of today’s Wrangler). Durability and reliability in a go-anywhere package were the vehicle’s hallmarks but like so many of these rugged machines, over time it morphed into a family friendly, road-worthy machine which could still conquer the hills and dales beyond the pavement.

The previous generation had been eclipsed in the American market by other Toyota SUVs, so the company suspended its marketing. The new 2024 Land Cruiser returns to its roots by emphasizing off-road capabilities in a less expensive package, while retaining premium features and everyday functionality.

i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain

The i-FORCE MAX powertrain features an electric motor residing in the bell housing between the turbocharged 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission. Drawing from the 1.87 kWh NiMH (nickel-metal hydride) battery, the electric motor does its part to help the powertrain produce 326 horsepower and 465 pounds-feet of torque.

The LC would turn off the internal-combustion engine when stopped and, if the battery had sufficient charge, use electric power upon takeoff. I felt the switch between motive power as the vehicle’s computer brains decided the most efficient way to move from point A to point B.

I averaged 20.5 miles per gallon, less than the federal Environmental Protection Agency’s rating of 23 mpg (22 urban, 25 highway). From a performance standpoint, the Land Cruiser, according to testing by Car and Driver, could achieve sub eight-second 0-60 times.

Engineered for off roading, the Land Cruiser incorporates a two-speed transfer case in the 4WD system along with locking rear and center differentials.

Additional off-highway features include an updated CRAWL Control function that acts as a low-speed, off-road cruise control with five selectable speeds. Downhill Assist Control is another standard off-road system that helps the driver navigate descents by limiting the speed of the vehicle.

Other traction aids include vehicle stability control, and an automatic limited-slip differential.

Land Cruiser’s front overhang was decreased for greater approach, providing up to a 31-degree approach, a 25-degree breakover and 22-degree departure angles.

Global truck platform underpins new Land Cruiser

Based on the TNGA-F global truck platform that is shared with Tundra, Sequoia and Tacoma, the Land Cruiser’s firm, controlled ride was provided by a chassis featuring an independent double-wishbone configuration with coil springs, twin-tube shock absorbers and stabilizer bar, while in the rear a four-link, solid-axle setup with coil springs, outboard-mounted twin-tube shocks and stabilizer bar does the job.

Stopping power is provided by a power-assisted braking system with anti-lock (ABS), vented 12.4-inch rotors up front and 12.3-inch vented ones in the rear along with a regenerative-braking system (thanks to the hybrid powertrain setup).

Regen is activated by both easing pressure on the accelerator as well as applying the brake pedal. Although at times the regen is strong, really slowing the LC significantly, it is not designed to bring the SUV to a complete stop, so it is not designed for one-pedal driving.

The 18-inch dark gray metallic alloy wheels sport 245/70R18 tires.

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 headlines ADAS

Standard on the 2024 Land Cruiser 1958 is the suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) dubbed Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This collection brings the LC pre-collision system with pedestrian detection; lane departure alert with steering assist; full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control; lane tracing assist; road sign assist; automatic high beams, and Proactive Driving Assist.

According to Toyota, “When system operating conditions are met, using the vehicle’s camera and radar, Proactive Driving Assist is designed to provide gentle braking into curves or gentle braking and/or steering to help support driving tasks such as distance control between a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. Proactive Driving Assist is not a substitute for the Pre-Collision System and operates in different circumstances.”

The sum of the platform and ADAS parts is a 5,037.5-pound vehicle which, also thanks to a high seating position (8.7-inch ground clearance), is easy to drive on road, in traffic and off pavement (I did not have the ability to test the major off-road capabilities during my tenure with the LC). It was comfortable during a couple of highway trips, not a luxury cruiser as was the case in previous generations, but quite reasonable.

Roomy interior with modern technology

The traditional boxy design of Land Cruisers was carried into the 2024 version (part of the Land Cruiser 250 series) helping to provide a roomy, interior which can easily accommodate five occupants and lots of their stuff (I easily moved a disassembled trundle-bunk bed by simply flipping down the second row of seats).

The interior of the 1958 grade is simple, straightforward and thoroughly modern in technology. A seven-inch-cluster sits behind the adjustable steering wheel and an eight-inch color touchscreen presents itself from the top center of the dash.

The touchscreen is the heart of the six-speaker infotainment system including wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability and SiriusXM satellite radio.

Three-zone automatic front and rear climate control, push-button controls, separate second-row control panel, individual temperature settings for driver, front passenger and rear-seat passengers enhance overall cabin comfort while seat heaters provide an extra bit of warmth to the front-seat occupants.

Eight cupholders, six USB ports, 120V outlet and a 2,400W AC inverter are also part of the package.

Land Cruiser family

There were three trim levels offered when the 2024 Land Cruiser made its return. The Land Cruiser 1958 like I drove carried a $55,950 base price while the more comprehensively equipped Land Cruiser came in at $61,950. The 5,000 unit limited First Edition went for 74,950.

My as-reviewed unit also had several options (including a $1,440 roof rack, $365 transmission skid plate, $440 front skid plate and $80 trailer ball mount) to bring the total, with delivery, processing and handling fee of $1,395 to $59,979.

This pricing and equipment puts it clearly into the off-road centric group of SUVs like the four-door Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, each having unique characteristics which appeal to different customers. The Land Cruiser is worth a look if you are interested in off-roading, an adventurous lifestyle and also need good, everyday transportation.