An off-roading legend is making a comeback with the introduction of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser. This new era Land Cruiser offers several exciting updates, including a turbocharged hybrid powertrain, a smaller size, a retro design, and a more affordable price. Toyota has stated that the starting price for the 2024 Land Cruiser will be in the mid-$50,000 range, a significant reduction compared to the previous model’s starting price of around $85,000. The new Land Cruiser is set to arrive in the U.S. market in the spring of 2024.
The 2024 Land Cruiser sets itself apart from its predecessor, the 200 Series model that left the U.S. market three years ago. With its smaller dimensions and retro-inspired design, the new Land Cruiser pays homage to its iconic predecessors. The lineup will consist of three models: the Land Cruiser 1958, which references the original Land Cruiser introduced in the U.S. in 1958, the standard Land Cruiser, and the Land Cruiser First Edition.
In terms of size, the 2024 Land Cruiser is 4.4 inches narrower and 1.2 inches shorter than the previous model. The design takes inspiration from Land Cruiser models from decades ago, rather than recent years. The base Land Cruiser 1958 and the top-spec Land Cruiser First Edition both feature round headlights, reminiscent of the 1960s 40 Series models and 1980s 60 Series Land Cruisers. The mid-trim model, on the other hand, sports rectangular LED headlights, paying homage to the facelifted 60 Series known as the FJ62. Every model boasts vertically oriented rectangular taillights like those found on the FJ60s, and the “Toyota” name is stamped into the grille. The Land Cruiser’s design also features an upright stance, slab sides, and large windows to ensure excellent visibility. Most Land Cruisers will ride on 18-inch wheels with all-season tires, while 20-inch wheels will be available on the mid-trim model.
In a departure from tradition, the new Land Cruiser will no longer be powered by a V8 engine. Instead, every Land Cruiser will be equipped with a hybrid powertrain. This hybrid setup includes a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a 48-hp electric motor. Together, these components produce a total output of 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. All Land Cruiser models will come with full-time four-wheel drive and a 2-speed electronically shifted transfer case. A Torsen limited-slip center differential with manual locking capability and a locking rear differential will be standard on all models, while the mid- and top-spec models will also feature disconnecting front sway bars.
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Like several other Toyota and Lexus models, including the Tundra, Sequoia, Tacoma, Lexus GX, and Lexus LX, the new Land Cruiser rides on the TNGA-F body-on-frame platform. It utilizes double-wishbone suspension up front and a multilink suspension with twin-tube shocks in the rear. These components contribute to the Land Cruiser’s signature off-road capabilities, which include an approach angle of up to 31.0 degrees, a maximum departure angle of 22.0 degrees, and a breakover angle of 25.0 degrees. The Land Cruiser also offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and additional off-road features such as rock rails and high-strength steel skid plates will be available. The Land Cruiser’s towing capacity will be up to 6,000 pounds, making it a capable hauler.
Toyota has equipped the new Land Cruiser with advanced off-road technologies to enhance its capabilities. The mid- and top-spec models will come standard with Toyota’s terrain management system, which now includes Mud, Dirt, and Sand modes that can be used in both 4Hi and 4Lo. Crawl Control, a feature similar to off-road cruise control, will also be standard on all models, along with hill descent control.
Moving inside, the base Land Cruiser 1958 models will feature heated cloth seats, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker sound system, and a 2,400-watt AC inverter. The mid-spec model upgrades to a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 10-speaker audio system, Rigid-brand color-selectable LED fog lights, and synthetic leather trimmed seats. The top-spec First Edition trim will be the only option to offer leather seats.
Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the Land Cruiser reflects this with its comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. Every Land Cruiser will come standard with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. In addition, a surround-view camera system will be available for enhanced visibility.
Toyota plans to offer over 100 accessories for the 2024 Land Cruiser at launch, including off-road recovery gear, racks, and attachments. This allows customers to tailor their Land Cruiser to their specific needs and preferences.
In summary, the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser marks the beginning of a new era for this off-roading icon. With its hybrid powertrain, smaller size, retro design, and more affordable price, the Land Cruiser offers an enticing package for both avid off-roaders and fans of the legendary model. The Land Cruiser’s advanced off-road capabilities, luxurious interior, and comprehensive safety features make it an appealing option for those seeking a versatile and capable SUV. The 2024 Land Cruiser is set to arrive in the U.S. market in the spring of 2024, and it is expected to make a big impact in the SUV segment.
