The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser has been officially introduced, marking the return of the legendary Land Cruiser nameplate after a brief hiatus here in the United States. Unlike what some might have expected, the new Land Cruiser is not just a slight revision of the previous model; instead, it brings significant changes and a fresh design approach.
One of the most notable departures from the previous generation is the Land Cruiser’s design. Toyota has adopted elements from the vehicle’s earlier history, giving it a more retro and purposeful appearance. The squared-off body and upright stance harken back to the timeless off-roader look, a departure from the previous model’s design.
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To improve the Land Cruiser’s off-road prowess, Toyota made the new model 4.4 inches narrower and 1.2 inches shorter overall. This downsizing makes it look dramatically smaller in person and enhances its agility on rough terrain. The headlights also receive a nod to the past, with some trims sporting a rectangular design reminiscent of the FJ62, while others come with round headlights.
The powertrain of the 2024 Land Cruiser has also undergone a significant change. Toyota has opted for an i-Force Max hybrid powertrain as the sole option for the new model. This hybrid system combines a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-horsepower electric motor, integrated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The total system output is 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 pound-feet of torque, thanks to the power of turbocharging and electric motors. However, the towing capacity is somewhat reduced compared to the previous model, rated at 6,000 pounds instead of 8,100 pounds.
Built on Toyota’s TNGA-F body-on-frame platform, similar to other Toyota trucks and Lexus SUVs, mainly the new Lexus GX, the Land Cruiser features a new double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension paired with coil springs. It boasts ground clearance of 8.7 inches and impressive approach, break-over, and departure angles of 31 degrees, 25 degrees, and 22 degrees, respectively. The entry-level 1958 grade has slightly different wheel and tire package, resulting in a slightly degraded approach angle of 30 degrees.
As expected from a Land Cruiser, the new model shines in off-road capability. It comes standard with a full-time four-wheel-drive system that includes a center-locking differential and an electronically-controlled transfer case with both high and low ranges. Additionally, an electronic locking rear differential is available to distribute power evenly to the rear wheels when needed. Optional rock rails and high-strength steel skid plates provide extra protection for rugged adventures.
The Land Cruiser is offered in three different grades: Land Cruiser 1958, Land Cruiser, and Land Cruiser First Edition. Even the base 1958 model comes well-equipped with various features like 18-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lamps, heated seats, heated steering wheel, Crawl Control function, and Downhill Assist Control. Stepping up to the Land Cruiser grade adds even more tech, including front stabilizer bar disconnect, Multi-Terrain Select, Multi-Terrain Monitor, Rigid fog lights, and others. The top-tier First Edition trim boasts enhanced capability with features like front skid plate, rock rails, and leather seats.
Inside the Land Cruiser, two different screen setups are available. The 1958 model features an eight-inch touchscreen, while the other two grades get a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. Both screens come with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and can receive over-the-air updates. Additionally, the Land Cruiser is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes various driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, auto high-beams, and blind-spot monitoring.
Although the exact pricing hasn’t been disclosed yet, Toyota states that the new Land Cruiser will start in the mid-$50,000 range for the base 1958 trim. This pricing is considerably lower than the previous model, which started at over $87,000, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for a capable and retro-styled SUV. Sales are scheduled to begin in the spring of 2024, with the first two months limited to 5,000 units of the First Edition model. After that, the other trims are expected to be available with greater production volume.
